Consumption Of Curd In Winters: Curd is one of the most versatile dairy foods that enhances the taste of a meal. Curd is an extremely healthy food that is rich in vital nutrients that promote overall health and well-being. From promoting bone health, and bone formation to easing digestion, eating curd has innumerable benefits for health. But you must have heard your mother telling you to avoid eating curd regularly in winter. Despite being extremely nutritious and healthy, we are often told to avoid eating too much curd during cold months, but why?
In a conversation with Jagran English, Ms Deepti Khatuja, Chief -Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon explained whether it is safe to consume curd every day in winter or not.
Watch the video below about best winter foods to include to your diet:
It Is Safe To Eat Curd In Winters?
According to Dr Khatuja, in winters there are certain myths (not to be taken in winters) associated with certain foods. One such common food in winter is Curd and its products. It is said that having curd or its product can lead to cough and cold and can be detrimental to health. But scientifically, it is not true.
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Dr Khatuja explained that the nutritional value of curd reveals that it is a rich source of proteins and calcium (100-gram curd has 3.1 gms of protein and 149mg of calcium). Proteins and calcium, are important nutrients for building muscle mass and Bone health. Research has clearly shown that with increasing ages, calcium losses from bones are high and there is a loss of muscle mass as geriatrics are not able to have adequate protein sources (either due to chewing issues or digestion issues).
Benefits Of Eating Curd Regularly (Image Credits: Freepik)
Yoghurt also has anti-inflammatory properties that tackle inflammation and can be used in the form of smoothies with nuts and fruits to make it tastier and more nutritious. Curd also is a natural probiotic as it has live lactobacillus and bifido bacteria strains which are classified as probiotics.
Probiotics are live microorganisms, which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. 70% of the immune system is in the gut and hence effect of probiotics is not just in digestion but also aids in strengthening the immune system. Curd improves gut health by regulating the gut bacteria. Curd also contains vitamin C (1mg/100 gm) which is a good antioxidant.
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Dr Khatuja culminated by explaining that although there is no scientific correlation between curd with cough, cold and respiratory diseases, it is important to understand individual body reactions as everybody reacts differently. However, having freshly curd at room temperature is beneficial to meet individual requirements and thus plays an important role in winter.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)
Rohit Malhotra is a medical expert and health journalist who offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. His articles aim to help readers lead healthier lives.
