Eat Right, Gig Longer

Singing is a physical activity that requires the coordinated efforts of the body and mind. In order to perform properly, the body needs an adequate supply of food on a daily basis. Food can be broken down into six classes of nutrients: carbohydrates, lipids (fats), proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. Each of these nutrients is assistive in creating and maintaining optimal conditions in the body, helping it to develop to its fullest potential. Nutrients can be assigned to three different categories: 1) those that primarily provide us with energy (typically expressed in Calories); 2) those that are important for growth and maintenance and; 3) those that act to keep body function running smoothly. There is often some overlap in the categories. Energy-yielding nutrients make up a major portion of most foods.

Carbohydrates

Our bodies need carbohydrates for energy. Most carbohydrates are known as sugars, starches or fibers. We need these to satisfy the energy requirements of our body cells. . When we eliminate carbohydrates from our diet, we decrease the energy needed to function properly. We become lethargic; our bodies have a much slower response time and cannot operate efficiently.

Fats

Fats are separated into two basic types: saturated and unsaturated. Plant oils usually have many unsaturated fatty acids, which makes them liquid. Animal fats are often rich in saturated fatty acids, which make them solid. Most foods contain a variety of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Essential fatty acids (also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids) are essential nutrients that the body cannot produce. These fatty acids help regulate blood pressure and create and repair vital cell parts. A few tablespoons of a common vegetable oil (canola, soybean, safflower…) each day will satisfy the bodies need for these nutrients.

Proteins

Proteins provide the main structural material in the body. They constitute a major part of bone and muscle and are important components in blood, cell membranes and immune factors. The body uses little protein to meet its daily energy needs.

Vitamins

The main function of vitamins is to enable many chemical reactions to occur in the body. Some of those reactions help release energy trapped in carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Vitamins in and of themselves do not provide any usable energy for the body.

Minerals

Though minerals do not provide energy for they body, they are important players in the operation of the body. Minerals are critical in nervous system functioning, some cellular processes, water balance and structural (i.e. skeletal) systems.

• A quick word about vitamins and minerals - Many believe that if they “eat right”, they do not need to take vitamin/mineral supplements. Nothing could be further from the truth! The argument against this theory arises when we evaluate the current condition of the earth and air and their effects on the quality of the food we eat. Many foods are often filled with pesticides, chemicals, imitation colors and flavoring, and preservatives. These chemicals get ingested and can become toxic inside our bodies. This toxicity can then begin to wear away at our body systems, causing cellular damage and opening the doorway to a myriad of illness and disease. Vitamins/Minerals are an important component of health and should not be overlooked.

Water

Water is a necessity to body functioning. It is a solvent, a lubricant, a medium for transporting nutrients and waste and is a medium for temperature regulation and chemical processes. The human body is approximately 60% water and requires, on average, 8 cups (64 oz) of water/fluids per day.

Singing is a hugely athletic activity that requires us to place high demands on our bodies. To do so we must be in tune with its needs and provide it the fuel and additional components it needs to continue functioning smoothly and efficiently. Treat your body well, and it will treat you well.

Here’s To Your Health!

CM Jones

Craig M. Jones is a professional singer, musician, songwriter and vocal educator with over 20 years experience in the entertainment industry. He has performed locally and internationally, as both a singer and percussionist, with such notables as Orange Then Blue, Stan Getz and Walter Beasley. A member of The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M), he strives to blend his knowledge of health and wellness into a cohesive vocal technique to both develop and support all musical styles and genres.

*The A4M is a not-for-profit medical society dedicated to the advancement of technology to detect, prevent, and treat aging related disease and to promote research into methods to retard and optimize the human aging process. A4M is also dedicated to educating physicians, scientists, and members of the public on anti-aging issues.