Is Curd Hot Or Cold According To Ayurveda

Question

I’ve always enjoyed eating curd as part of my meals, whether it’s in the form of plain curd, raita, or as buttermilk. It feels refreshing, especially during summer, but I’ve recently started questioning whether curd is actually good for me. I came across conflicting information online—some sources say curd is cooling, while others mention it has heating properties. So now I’m wondering: is curd hot or cold according to Ayurveda?

I’ve noticed that when I eat curd at night, I sometimes feel heavy or bloated the next morning. Could this be because I’m eating it at the wrong time? If curd is cooling, does that mean it’s only suitable for daytime meals or during hot weather? Or does Ayurveda have specific guidelines about when and how curd should be eaten?

I also heard that curd can aggravate certain doshas, like kapha, especially when it’s eaten with sweet or heavy foods. If curd is considered either hot or cold in Ayurveda, how does this impact its compatibility with other foods? For example, is it okay to pair curd with rice, which I often do, or could that combination disrupt digestion?

Another question I have is about the preparation of curd. Does the way it’s made or consumed change its effect on the body? For example, is churned curd (like buttermilk) less heavy or more digestible compared to plain thick curd?

I’m trying to make better food choices based on Ayurveda, but I’m confused about how curd fits into this system. If curd is considered heating or cooling, how should I balance it in my meals to avoid any negative effects? Should I avoid curd entirely if I already have a kapha or pitta imbalance?

If anyone can explain whether curd is hot or cold according to Ayurveda and how to eat it properly for optimal health, I’d really appreciate it. Are there specific spices or herbs I should add to curd to make it more beneficial? And how often should curd be included in a weekly diet?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, curd (or yogurt) is considered cooling by nature, but its effects can vary based on individual constitution (dosha), digestion, and how it is prepared or consumed. Curd is best eaten during the daytime and in moderation, as it can increase kapha and pitta doshas, especially when consumed in excess or at night. Eating curd at night can be heavy on digestion, potentially causing bloating, as it may slow down the digestive fire (Agni). Pairing curd with light, warming foods like spices or herbs (e.g., cumin, black pepper, ginger) can help balance its cooling properties. While curd can be combined with rice, this combination is best for individuals with a vata imbalance and should be avoided if there is excess kapha or pitta, as it could aggravate these doshas. Churned curd, or buttermilk, is considered lighter and easier to digest than thick, plain curd, as it has been processed to reduce its heaviness and sourness. For those with a kapha or pitta imbalance, curd should be consumed in moderation, ideally with digestive spices, and avoided if there is excessive mucus, congestion, or digestive sluggishness. Ideally, curd should be included in the diet once or twice a week, depending on your dosha and the current state of your health, and always with awareness of its cooling or heating effects.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

So you’re hooked on curd, right? I get it; it's like this dealbreaker for meals, especially when summer's on fire. But eyah, Ayurveda treats it a bit more nuanced than just hot or cold. It's kind of both, believe it or not! So here's the lowdown.

In Ayurveda, curd (or dahi) is somewhat heating due to its sourness, but it also provides this cooling comfort. A classic paradox, huh? This dual personality means it's warming because it increases pitta and kapha doshas – hence the heaviness you’re feeling when you eat it at night. So, that's a thing; eating curd at night isn't advised. It can mess with your agni, or digestive fire, making you feel bloated or heavy the next morning – which you’ve already noticed, unfortunately.

Curd has this interesting trait; it can be kapha provoking if taken when your system isn't needing it, like at night or with heavier foods. Rice and curd? Yeah, classic combo but moderation's key. Rice's also kapha-inducing, so hmmm, maybe stick to smaller portions. To really make the meal work well, try adding a pinch of black pepper or a bit of cumin, it’ll help balance that kapha heaviness.

Preparation changes things too. Churning curd into buttermilk cranks up its digestibility factor. Add some rock salt or ginger for a digestive helping hand. A little lighter than thick curd, buttermilk's ideal for keeping digestive balance. Plus, it’s fabulous for folks with kapha issues cause it’s lighter.

A few don’ts to remember: don't indulge in curd during rainy seasons, or if your system’s already sluggish. For a more balanced digestion, add digestive spices or accompany with warming foods. Oh, and never heat it, 'cause warmed or cooked curd can lose its beneficial properties and end up like a pitta aggravator.

So takeaway tips? Enjoy curd during the day, ideally with spices that agree with your doshas, and pair it smartly with lighter foods. You’re not slamming the door on curd, just opening windows to a more balanced intake. You could look at including it 3-4 times a week, considering your dosha balance and how your body reacts.

In the end, it's about tailoring it to your body's needs. Ayurveda isn't about one-size-fits-all so whatever feels off, adjust gradually. And remember, ayurvedic food rules are as much about mindful balance as they are about delicious eating!

Is Curd Hot Or Cold According To Ayurveda - #3648

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