Can Curd Cause Gas

Question

Every time I eat curd, I feel bloated and gassy, but I’m not sure if it’s directly related. I love curd, and I eat it almost daily, but now I’m starting to question whether it’s good for me. My friend mentioned that for some people, can curd cause gas, especially if it’s eaten at the wrong time or with certain foods. Is that true?

I usually have curd with rice during lunch or as raita with spicy curries, but I’ve noticed that the discomfort gets worse if I eat it later in the day. Does this mean can curd cause gas more if it’s consumed at night? Also, could the way the curd is prepared affect this? I buy packaged curd most of the time, but I’ve read that homemade curd might be easier on the stomach.

Another thing is that I often mix curd with fruits or add sugar to it. Could this combination be part of the problem? I’ve heard that mixing sour and sweet foods isn’t great for digestion, so does that make can curd cause gas more likely?

I also struggle with mild lactose intolerance, so maybe that’s why I feel this way. But I thought curd is supposed to be easier to digest than milk. Is there a specific type of curd or way to eat it that won’t lead to gas and bloating?

Are there alternatives or spices I can add to balance its effects?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Yes, curd can sometimes cause gas and bloating, depending on how and when it is consumed, as well as individual factors like lactose intolerance or digestive sensitivity. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and solutions:

Timing Matters: Eating curd at night can increase bloating and gas for some people because it can be heavy to digest and may aggravate Kapha and Vata doshas, according to Ayurveda. Curd is better consumed during lunch when digestion is stronger.
Food Combinations: Mixing curd with incompatible foods like fruits (especially citrus or sweet fruits) or sugar can disrupt digestion and lead to fermentation in the gut. This can worsen gas and bloating.
Lactose Intolerance: While curd is easier to digest than milk due to its probiotic content, mild lactose intolerance can still cause discomfort. Opt for curd made from lactose-free or A2 milk if this might be the issue.
Spices to Balance: Adding spices like cumin, black pepper, or asafoetida (hing) to curd can reduce its gas-forming properties. Spiced raita or buttermilk (chaas) is often easier to digest than plain curd.
Type of Curd: Homemade curd, which is fresh and slightly less sour, is generally gentler on digestion than packaged varieties. Sour or stale curd can increase bloating.
Alternatives: If curd still causes issues, try alternatives like yogurt made from almond, coconut, or soy milk, which are naturally lactose-free.
To minimize gas and bloating, consume curd during lunch with warm, easy-to-digest foods, avoid mixing it with incompatible ingredients, and use spices for digestion. If symptoms persist, consider consulting a nutritionist or Ayurvedic doctor to identify specific intolerances.

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