A thin coat of mucus protects the nasal passages and the health of your voice. However, too much may cause you to clear your throat excessively, which irritates the vocal chords and leaves your voice sounding strained. 

Fatty foods and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, tea, and sodas, are dehydrating and are the major contributors of mucus. Avoid them on the days you are going to speak. This includes the days you will be making a lot of phone calls, giving a lecture, doing a recording session, or speaking in front of a group.

 1. Forbidden foods for speakers:

 a.      Chocolate: candy, hot chocolate (caffeine in the cocoa dries vocal chords)

b.      Mints: (menthol dries out the vocal chords)

c.      Anything fried: French fries, chicken (high in fat)

d.      Dairy products: milk, cream, cheese (causes more mucus)

e.      Creamy foods: mayonnaise, cream cheese, butter (mucus forming)

f.       Baked goods: pastries, cakes, and cookies (high in fat)

g.      Coffee or latte drinks: caffeine combined with cream = deadly voice

h.      Alcohol: never for obvious reasons

2. Recommend foods for speakers:

a.      Salad with oil and vinegar dressing or lemon (no creamy salad dressing)

b.      Turkey sandwich with mustard on whole wheat bread

c.      Grilled chicken or fish with lemon only and steamed veggies (no sauces)

 Tip: What is the worst thing a speaker can eat for lunch or dinner?

Answer: A slice of pizza with a brownie and a glass of milk for dessert.