can we eat mushroom with curd - #40444
I am really confused about my food choices lately. My aunt swears by the benefits of mushrooms and loves adding them to everything, but then I heard somewhere that we shouldn’t mix mushrooms with curd. It’s like too conflicting info! Last week, I made a mushroom curry and paired it with some yogurt, thinking it would cool things down a bit. But then my friend came over and practically gasped when she saw me do that. She said, "can we eat mushroom with curd?" and it turned into a whole discussion about food combinations and digestion. I mean, it’s not like I felt sick after eating it—I actually enjoyed the meal! But now I'm questioning everything. I did read some articles online but they seemed kinda vague or even contradictory. Like, some people talk about how mushrooms are such a healthy food but then say mixing them with curd is a big no-no. Is it really that bad, though? Can we eat mushroom with curd? Or should I just stick to one or the other? I really want to make sure my meals are wholesome and not just taste good. Any advice from you, seasoned Ayurvedic doctors, would be seriously appreciated!
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Doctors' responses
In Ayurveda, understanding food combinations is important as they can impact digestion and our doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The concept of incompatible foods, known as ‘Viruddha Ahara,’ is a central idea here. It’s not only about the individual ingredients but how they work together. The idea that mushrooms and curd shouldn’t mix stems from their differing properties.
Curd is heating in nature and tends to aggrevate Pitta dosha—it can also lead to an increase in Kapha, especially when consumed at night or in excess. Mushrooms, on the other hand, are considered difficult to digest and slightly damp, also leaning on the heavier side, potentially increasing Kapha if eaten too much. Consumed together, these could create ama, a concept in Ayurveda for toxins or undigested residues that can disrupt agni, the digestive fire.
However, it’s crucial to consider one’s own constitution too. If your prakriti is dominantly Vata, you might not experience any immediate discomfort with this combination due to Vata’s inherent dryness. But, long-term consumption could still lead to imbalances. To maintain balance while enjoying both foods, it’s suggested to consume them apart. Opt for lighter cooking methods and spices that aid in digestion, like cumin, ginger, and black pepper.
Avoid following strict do’s and dont’s blindly. Consider the time of day, your personal constitution, and overall health. If you enjoy this combination occasionally and haven’t faced any adverse effects, it’s less a matter of “should or shouldn’t” and more about moderation and awareness. If you wish to explore more about food combining according to Ayurvedic principles, consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner might provide tailored advice suited to your specific needs. Remember, Ayurveda emphasizes balance and personal intuition about one’s own body.

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