Can Acid Reflux Affect Our Singing Voice?

As a qualified singing teacher and naturopathic nutritionist, I now and again work with singing clients who struggle with unexplained vocal fatigue, a hoarse or breathy tone, or difficulty accessing their upper range.

My first port of call is to send them to the GP for a referal to the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist. But did you know one of the most overlooked causes is acid reflux? —specifically Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), more commonly known as “silent reflux.”

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up the oesophagus due to a weakened or dysfunctional lower oesophageal sphincter. Even small amounts of acid reaching the larynx can cause inflammation and irritation of the vocal folds, potentially leading to changes in vocal quality.

Triggers vary from person to person but often include:

• Caffeine, alcohol, spicy or fried foods

• Late-night eating or large meals before bed

• Stress, poor posture, or shallow breathing

• Food sensitivities and gut imbalance

Why It Matters for Singers

The larynx is highly sensitive to acid exposure so even mild reflux may lead to inflammation, swelling, and subtle muscular tension—all of which can make singing feel more of an effort and potentially uncomfortable. Over time, this may reduce range, stamina, and vocal flexibility.

A Naturopathic Approach to Prevention & Support

Rather than masking symptoms with antacids, my naturopathic approach aims to address the root causes:

• Reduce acid-forming foods and identifying personal triggers - focus on whole foods, anti-inflammatory foods and overeating. Common triggers are chocolate, tomoatoes, citrus fruits, coffee, peppermint and spicy foods. Keeping a food diary can help identfy any triggers.

• Leave 2–3 hours between eating and lying down or singing, and maintain upright posture during meals to reduce the chance of stomach acid travelling back up the oesophagus.

• Shallow breathing can increase intra-abdominal pressure, encouraging reflux. Good diaphragmatic support not only aids your singing but supports digestive function. Try taking belly breathes and breathing in through the nose.

• Stress directly impacts digestion! Mindful breathwork before meals to encourage a rest and digest state making the body ready for digestion, activating the vagus nerve which helps regulate involuntary functions such as breathing, digestion and heart rate.

Acid reflux is not just a digestive issue—it’s a whole-body signal. As both a nutritionist and singing teacher, I support my clients in understanding how gut health and vocal health are intimately connected. When we address the root cause, the whole body thrives.

If you’re experiencing persistent vocal issues or suspect reflux may be playing a part, make sure you to contact your GP and work with a qualified singing teacher. If you would like singing lessons or nutritional advice, you can drop me a message and we can chat about the right options for you!

Your voice—and your gut—will thank you.