is curd good for acidity and gas - #41612
I am really struggling with stomach issues lately, like bloating and gas, especially after meals, ugh. I read somewhere that curd might help, but I’m not sure if it really works. My friend swears by it and says that curd is good for acidity and gas. But like, can it actually help reduce the discomfort? Last week, I had this heavy meal filled with spicy stuff, and I felt all kinds of off afterward. I was probably overdoing it, but who can resist a good curry, right? Anyway, this past few days, I've been feeling really weird—tightness in my chest and just overall discomfort. I started eating more fiber, but I always wonder, is curd good for acidity and gas, like I've heard? Should I be eating it every day or certain times or with certain foods? Also, there’s conflicting info out there about dairy and gut health, so I am a bit confused. Some docs say dairy can be tough for digestion, while others say curd is great. Like, what’s the deal? Is curd good for acidity and gas, or is that just a myth? Any thoughts would be super helpful, thank you!
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Doctors' responses
Curd can indeed be beneficial for digestive issues like acidity and gas, but it’s essential to consume it properly to experience these benefits. According to Ayurvedic principles, curd is considered sour, heavy, and hot in potency. This means that when consumed in moderation and in the right context, it can help balance certain types of digestive disturbances.
For acidity and gas, curd acts to cool and settle the stomach, providing a soothing effect. However, its sour nature can aggravate Pitta dosha if not consumed correctly. Rather than having plain curd, it’s generally advised to consume it with a pinch of rock salt or some roasted cumin powder. These additions can enhance its digestibility and make it more suitable for alleviating bloating and gas. This combination also aids in promoting healthy gut bacteria, which are crucial for digestion.
You might want to have curd at lunch with your meals rather than at dinner, as eating it at night can increase Kapha dosha leading to heaviness and lethargy. Pairing curd with rice a common practice in many Indian households — may not only help in balancing your gastric discomfort but also support better digestion overall.
Avoid consuming curd in large quantities or making it a habit with every meal, as excessive consumption may lead to mucus formation and contribute to imbalance. Considering the spiciness of meals that may foster dyspepsia, integrating curd as a mild dietary inclusion can be more harmonizing.
However, do note that individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive distress from curd and should be cautious. Instead, they might want to explore lactose-free or plant-based alternatives. For people unsure about their lactose tolerance, it’s best to start with small quantities under a physician’s guidance.
To conclude, while curd has its virtues, mindful consumption based on your dosha constitution and current health status, is essential. Remember, balance is key in Ayurveda!
Curd, when prepared and consumed correctly, can indeed have beneficial effects on acidity and gas. According to Siddha-Ayurvedic tradition, curd is considered to be a valuable food for its cooling and soothing properties, which can alleviate digestive disturbances. However, there are nuances to its use.
In your case, where spice-heavy meals have triggered bloating and discomfort, curd could be helpful as it balances the pitta dosha, which is often aggravated by spicy foods. It’s better to consume curd in the afternoon when digestion is stronger. That said, making a few adjustments will enhance its effect: consume it in a small amount, ideally with a pinch of cumin powder or ginger, as these aid in digestion and reduce gas.
However, avoid having curd at night, as it may lead to mucus buildup and aggravate kapha, possibly worsening bloating or congestion. Additionally, it’s important that curd is homemade or fresh, as overly fermented or store-bought varieties might be too sour, which could actually irritate your stomach further.
Regarding dairy, digestion can vary greatly from person to person. If you find that curd causes discomfort consistently, it might be worth consulting with a practitioner to explore potential sensitivities or imbalance.
To enhance gut health, mix curd with warm water to make a buttermilk, along with trikatu (a mix of black pepper, long pepper, and dried ginger) to further support digestion. Including a probiotic, like a small bit of pickle or chutney, can assist in keeping your digestion on track.
Regarding your symptoms of chest tightness, if they persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly, as these might indicate a more serious condition needing immediate attention. Always prioritize your immediate health before trying new remedies.
By approaching your diet and lifestyle through the lens of your dosha and current digestive state, you can find the right balance for your body. Adjust meal compositions and timings as necessary, and maintain a meal diary to identify patterns in discomfort or relief.

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