Can We Eat Curd After Eating Chicken

Question

I’ve always been told that Ayurveda advises against mixing certain foods, and one combination I’ve heard mixed opinions about is can we eat curd after eating chicken. In my family, we often serve chicken curry with curd-based side dishes like raita or yogurt chutney. I’ve never noticed immediate problems, but recently, I started having more bloating and stomach discomfort after meals, so I’m wondering if this combination could be the reason.

Does Ayurveda say anything specific about can we eat curd after eating chicken? I’ve read that chicken is considered heating, while curd is cooling, and the mix of these two energies might disturb digestion or create ama (toxins). But is this true for everyone, or does it depend on your dosha?

I also noticed that my skin has become more prone to breakouts recently. Could the combination of chicken and curd be causing this, or is that unrelated? If can we eat curd after eating chicken is not recommended, how does it actually affect the body over time?

Lastly, are there exceptions to this rule? For example, does it make a difference if the curd is lightly spiced or used in cooking? Or should these two foods just not be eaten together at all? I’d love to know how to balance my meals better without missing out on my favorite dishes.

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

In Ayurveda, food combinations are important because they affect digestion and overall health. The combination of chicken and curd is generally not recommended, as they are believed to have opposing qualities. Chicken is considered heating and heavy, while curd is cooling and moist. Mixing these two can potentially disturb the digestive fire (agni) and lead to issues like bloating, indigestion, or the formation of ama (toxins) in the body over time. This imbalance may also contribute to skin issues, such as breakouts, especially for those with a Pitta dosha, which governs heat and metabolism.

While the combination of chicken and curd is discouraged, it can depend on your dosha and digestive strength. If you have a strong digestive system (agni), you might tolerate this combination better, but for most people, it’s better to avoid it. There are some exceptions—like using lightly spiced curd in cooking, which may help balance the heating and cooling properties. However, if you experience discomfort, it’s wise to consume these foods separately to avoid digestive disturbances. By balancing your meals and choosing complementary combinations, you can enjoy your favorite dishes without compromising your digestion or health.

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