Can I Eat Curd After Eating Fish

Question

This is something that’s been bugging me for a while. Growing up, I was always told not to mix certain foods in Ayurveda, and one of the rules I remember is, can I eat curd after eating fish. I’m not sure why this combination is considered bad, but it’s supposed to cause some sort of imbalance or even health issues.

Here’s why I’m asking: I love eating fish curry, and in my family, we often serve it with curd-based dishes like raita or yogurt chutneys. I’ve never noticed any immediate problems like an upset stomach, but I’ve been reading that combining fish and curd might lead to ama (toxins) forming in the body over time. Is this true, or is it just a myth?

From what I understand, Ayurveda places a lot of importance on food combinations. Some sources say that fish and curd are incompatible because fish is considered heating and curd is cooling, so together, they might disrupt digestion. Does this mean the combination could cause issues like bloating, skin problems, or something more serious?

I’ve also read conflicting opinions – some say that it depends on how the curd is prepared or the type of fish you eat. For example, would using lightly fermented curd or eating freshwater fish make it less harmful? Or does it not matter at all?

Another thing I’m curious about is whether this rule applies to all situations. For instance, is it worse to eat fish and curd in the evening compared to lunch? Ayurveda often mentions that meal timing affects digestion, so I wonder if this makes any difference here.

And if it’s not recommended, what are some good alternatives to pair with fish curries that don’t conflict with Ayurvedic principles?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

The idea of not mixing fish and curd is a well-known Ayurvedic guideline, rooted in the belief that the combination can disrupt digestion and lead to the formation of ama (toxins). Ayurveda classifies fish as a heating food and curd (or yogurt) as cooling, and when combined, they are thought to create an imbalance in the digestive system. This imbalance may lead to issues like bloating, skin problems, and digestive discomfort over time, even if you don't feel immediate effects. The concern is that the combination might disturb your Agni (digestive fire), impairing digestion and leading to improper assimilation of nutrients.

However, the severity of this rule can vary depending on the type of fish and curd used. For example, lightly fermented curd and freshwater fish are considered less problematic in some Ayurvedic traditions. The timing of your meal also matters—eating fish and curd together in the evening may be more difficult to digest than at lunch when your digestive fire is stronger. If you’re concerned about this combination, you can pair fish with other side dishes that are more in alignment with Ayurvedic principles, such as vegetables, leafy greens, or a simple dal.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

Ah, the fish and curd conundrum — it's like the age-old mystery in Ayurveda that still keeps folks perplexed! So, let's dive in. Based on Ayurvedic principles, mixing fish with curd is generally not recommended. The reasoning? Well, you're right on that. Fish is classified as having a warming nature (Ushna Virya), while curd tends to be cooling (Sheetal Virya). This contradictory mix can confuse your digestive fire, or Agni, potentially leading to what the texts call "ama" or toxins.

So, you've got this digestive fire, and it's like, “Hey, what's goin’ on?” when you put conflicting foods together. Imbalanced digestion can then manifest as skin issues, bloating, or other health niggles. But you're not alone if you've gotten away with this combo without immediate backlashes. Sometimes, the body copes, but it's about long-term effects that Ayurveda is usually concerned with.

Now as for curd being lightly fermented or types of fish, you hit on something there. Lighter fermentation can make curd less heavy on digestion, and freshwater fish are typically less oily, which might play nicer with your tummy. Still, the basic rule of Ayurveda remains — mismatched properties can muck up your digestion, and Agni is pretty irreplaceable for it plays significant role in maintaining balance in your system.

Eating timing? You're onto something! Dinner is typically a lighter affair in Ayurveda as digestive fire is at its peak at noon. So maybe having fish and curd separately during lunch could be lesser of an evil compared to dinner.

If you’re looking to swap out that curd, consider pairing fish with something like steamed veggies or a light, grain-based dish like quinoa. Herbs such as cumin, coriander and fennel might also help to support digestion when consuming fish.

I get it, this all sounds a bit cautious, but remember, Ayurveda’s not about immediate gratification. It's more like a marathon, adapting these principles to the nuances of your own body's needs. If you're keen on experimenting or anxious about existing health concerns, speaking with an Ayurvedic professional tailored to your health and lifestyle is always a good move.

Can I Eat Curd After Eating Fish - #5449

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