Curd: Nutrition and Health Benefits

Curd, also known as yogurt is made by fermenting milk with lactobacillus bacteria which converts lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid. This lowers milk's pH value, causing milk protein coagulation into curd.

It contains probiotics that help in digestion and promote a healthy gut.

Curd contains several Vitamins like Vitamin B2, B5, B12, and Vitamin D which have several health benefits.

It can be a good vegetarian protein source, a 100 gm of plain curd contains around 3 to 4 gm of protein.

Curd is a good source of minerals like calcium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, and selenium.

The Glycemic Index (G.I.) of curd is 28, which is low so it doesn’t rapidly increase the blood sugar levels.

Curd can easily be included in the diet, it can be used in smoothies, salads, sides, or can be consumed directly.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), plain curd contains the following macronutrients and vitamins.

Curd also contains several minerals which are as follows.

Pros of eating curd

1. Curd contains probiotics which can relieve bloating, and constipation and promote healthy digestion.

2. It can help boost immunity.

3. Calcium and Vitamin D in curd can help strengthen bones and teeth.

4. Curd contains protein which keeps you fuller for longer so your calorie consumption decreases leading to weight loss.

5. Applying curs on the skin can moisturize and nourish the skin.

6. Consuming curd regularly can help lower cholesterol levels in the body.

7. It may help regulate blood pressure levels.

8. Protein and minerals in curd help in muscle recovery after exercise.

9. Curd can help control blood sugar levels.

10. Curd can remove dandruff and fungal infections from the scalp and may help strengthen hair.

11. Lactobacillus bacteria in curd may treat vaginal infections.

12. Consumption of curd regularly may help lower stress and anxiety.

13. Vitamin and minerals present in curd can boost the immunity system.

14. Lactic acid in curd can treat acne and slow skin aging.

Cons of eating Curd

1. Excess consumption of curd may cause digestive issues like gas and bloating.

2. Due to the presence of biogenic amines, excess consumption of curd may cause headaches.

3. Excess consumption of curd may lead to weight gain.

4. It can increase mucus production which may aggravate asthma and other respiratory diseases,

5. People with arthritis should avoid curd, which may increase joint pains.

6. Lactose-intolerant people should avoid consuming curd.

7. You should not consume curd at night if you have a cold and cough.

Interesting Facts

1. It is believed that curd was discovered in the Neolithic period 7000 years ago by accident when milk was exposed to bacteria.

2. Plain curd can be used as a face mask to rejuvenate the skin.

3. France and Turkey are considered the largest curd consumer.