Dahi, or yogurt, is often regarded as soothing for digestive issues, including acidity, because it’s a rich source of probiotics, which can help regulate the digestive tract’s function and balance the acid production. However, its effect on acidity can vary based on your individual digestive constitution (prakriti) and the underlying cause of your acidity.
From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, acidity is typically linked to a disturbance in the pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism in the body. When there’s an excess of pitta, symptoms like acid reflux can arise. Dahi can help in balancing pitta due to its cooling properties, but its effectiveness can also be influenced by how it is consumed. For example, consuming dahi plain might be more beneficial than pairing it with sour or acidic fruits, which could potentially increase acidity.
Including dahi in moderation, such as in small amounts with your main meal rather than as a standalone snack, can help neutralize excess stomach acid. You might also consider preparing dahi with a pinch of ground cumin or coriander powder, which are known to aid digestion and balance pitta. Also, it’s generally recommended to have fresh dahi rather than store-bought versions that may have added sugars or preservatives, which can exacerbate acidity.
If you suspect that dairy might be a trigger for your symptoms, observe how your body reacts to different foods including yogurt. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in identifying patterns and triggers. While dahi can support digestion for many, it’s important to pay attention to how your body specifically reacts.
Maintaining regular meal times, reducing spicy and greasy foods, and managing stress through pranayam or meditation can significantly support the balance of your digestive fire, or agni. However, given that your symptoms persist, consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance is crucial. This would ensure that any serious underlying conditions are addressed, especially if lifestyle and dietary adjustments do not provide relief.


