does curd produce heat in body - #25868
I am curious about something I read recently. Last week, I started feeling really sluggish and, like, overly warm all the time, which is odd for me. After chatting with a friend, I realized I’ve been eating a ton of curd lately, thinking it was super healthy! I even tried making this spicy yogurt dip for snacks, and uhh, I noticed a lot of folks say that curd can really help with digestion and all that, but does curd produce heat in body? I've heard mixed things on this topic. Some aunties in the family mention that too much dairy, especially curd, heats up the body more than it’s good for you, while others swear by it saying it’s cooling. But how can that be? I'm not sure if I’m leaning towards some curry-induced heat overload or what! I also have a sensitive stomach, and I wonder if that makes me react differently. Anyone else experience this? Does curd produce heat in body for everyone or just some people? Would love some clarity on this!
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Doctors’ responses
Curd is generally considered cooling in Ayurvedic terms. It’s interesting that you’re experiencing increased warmth, as curd is often well known to balance Pitta dosha, which relates to heat in the body. However, the overall effect of curd can varry depending on the preparation, spices used, and one’s unique prakriti (constitution).
If you’ve been consuming curd in a spicy yogurt dip, it’s possible that the spices, rather than the curd itself, contributing to the heat sensation. Spices like chili, mustard seeds, or pepper can increase Pitta, causing the body to feel warmer. Particular for those with a Pitta constitution or Pitta imbalance, too much spicy food can amplify symptoms like heat sensation and sluggishness.
People with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive imbalances might react differently to curd. Sometimes, consuming curd at night or on an empty stomach can be heavy for digestion and might slow down agni (digestive fire). Opt for fresh, homemade curd and consume during the day when your digestion is stronger. Mixing curd with cooling agents like coriander or adding a pinch of rock salt can alleviate unwanted heating effects.
Additionally, its best to pay attention to your body’s signals. If you’re feeling warm or sluggish, limit the amount you consume, especially late in the day. Consider replacing spicy dips with a simple, cooling option like plain curd with cucumber or mint.
Experiment by altering the spices in your dip and observe how that affects your symptoms. Remember, Ayurveda is highly personal, so it helps to track what works best for you. If the warmth persists, you might wanna consult with an Ayurveda practitioner to further explore your Pitta levels and digestion needs.

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