is curd good for digestion - #42477
I am really confused about this whole thing with curd and digestion. Lately, I’ve been feeling super bloated and just not good after meals, and everyone keeps saying that curd is good for digestion, right? My aunt swears by it and claims it helped her with similar issues but when I tried eating it, I still felt awful afterward. Like, I had this heavy stomach, and honestly, I’m not sure if it worked for me. A friend told me that it’s because I’m lactose intolerant, but I don’t know if that's true. Before all this, I used to eat curd without any problems! I'm also wondering, is curd good for digestion only for some people or is it really beneficial for everyone? It’s just, I kinda put my hopes on it helping me out like it did for my aunt, and now I feel even more lost. Also, do you think there are specific types of curd that would be better? I tried plain yogurt and even flavored ones thinking maybe the probiotics help, but who knows? If curd is good for digestion, why does it not feel good for me right now? Just really need some clarity on this whole curd for digestion thing, thanks guys!
Doctor-recommended remedies for this condition

Doctors' responses
Curd, in Ayurveda, is generally regarded as a beneficial food for digestion due to its probiotic content, which can enhance gut health by supporting the balance of gut flora. However, its effects can vary significantly based on an individual’s constitution (prakriti), any current imbalance (vikriti), and how it’s consumed. It’s not one-size-fits-all. Some people, despite having no prior issues, may currently experience discomfort like bloating if digestive imbalances are present.
Your bloating could suggest an aggravated Vata or potentially Kapha dosha. Consuming curd, a Kapha-increasing food, might worsen symptoms if your digestion is sluggish or if Kapha is elevated. Consider how you consume curd: Ayruveda suggests consuming it in moderation, preferring the daytime when digestive fire (agni) is stronger. It’s also recommended to avoid eating curd late at night or during colder months, especially singularly or with foods like fish or banana, which may induce heaviness.
Given your symptoms, the suggestion is to try consuming fresh buttermilk instead of curd, which is lighter and more digestible, aiding especially when taken spiced with a pinch of cumin or ginger to stimulate digestion. Ensure that the preparation is fresh, preferably home-made, and served at room temperature. Balancing with a predominance of vegetables and a small amount of spice-adapted to your digestive capacity- can also be helpful.
Regarding potential lactose intolerance, you could try lactose-free yogurt, but genuine intolerance should be verified by a healthcare professional. You may have had no trouble initially, nevertheless given your current symptoms, ongoing observation of your body’s response will be helpful. Avoidance of artificially flavored variants is preferable, as they could contain sugars or additives further contributing to digestive discomfort.
For the specific digestive episode you’re experiencing, see if small dietary modifications, such as reducing intake of heavy, cold, or overly processed foods, make a difference. Reducing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and physical activity can also provide support to your digestive processes, drawing upon a holistic approach to well-being. If symptoms persist or escalate, consulting a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying condition, like a temporary lactose sensitivity or other digestive concerns might be prudent.
Curd is generally considered beneficial for digestion due to its probiotic content, which supports the growth of good bacteria in the gut. However, its effects can vary depending on individual constitution—prakriti—and digestive fire—agni. In your case, the feeling of bloating and heaviness might suggest that your digestive agni is weakened or that an imbalance in doshas, perhaps excessive kapha, is affecting your digestion.
Firstly, you should assess whether your digestive issues are linked to lactose intolerance, since even those previously tolerant can develop issues over time. Though curd has less lactose than milk due to fermentation, if lactose intolerance is present, symptoms like bloating might persist.
To potentially improve your experience with curd, consider the following:
1. Quantity and Timing: It’s important not to consume too much curd in one go, especially not at night. Try a smaller portion during the afternoon, when your digestive fire is typically stronger.
2. Type of Curd: Use homemade or fresh curd, as it’s generally more beneficial and gentler on the stomach. Flavored commercial varieties might have additives or sugars that could aggravate your symptoms.
3. Temperature: Ensure curd is at room temperature before consuming. Cold foods can dampen the agni, leading to heaviness and bloating.
4. Spices: Enhance your curd with a pinch of roasted cumin seed powder or grated ginger to aid digestion and kindle your agni.
If you’re still experiencing discomfort despite These adjustments, it might be worthwhile to explore alternative digestive aids. Incorporating hing (asafoetida), fennel seeds, or sipping warm ginger tea can support digestion and alleviate bloating. Remember, consistent digestive troubles warrant consulting a professional for a thorough assessment.

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.
