When it comes to dairy products, curd and
buttermilk
are popular choices, each with its own set of qualities and
health benefits
. Curd, also known as yogurt, is made by fermenting milk with helpful bacteria, providing a good amount of protein,
probiotics
, and essential nutrients. Buttermilk, derived from curd, is created by churning it to remove butter, leaving a tangy liquid.
Both curd and buttermilk have been part of traditional diets worldwide, known for aiding digestion and offering potential health perks. Let's see, which one is healthier for you.
Curd
Curd, also known as yogurt, is a dairy product that is made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria. The fermentation process involves the conversion of
lactose
(milk sugar) into lactic acid by these bacteria, giving curd its characteristic texture and tangy flavor.
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Health benefits of curd:
Rich in probiotics: Curd is an excellent source of probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, which promote healthy gut flora. These bacteria contribute to better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
High in protein: Curd is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance, repair, and overall body function.
Calcium content: It provides a significant amount of calcium, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Boosts immunity: The probiotics in curd also support the
immune system
, helping the body defend against infections.
Improved lactose digestion: The fermentation process reduces the lactose content in curd, making it easier to digest for individuals who may be lactose intolerant.
Regulation of blood pressure: Some studies suggest that regular consumption of curd may help regulate blood pressure.
Buttermilk and its health benefits
Buttermilk is a dairy product that is often a byproduct of churning curd or yogurt to extract butter. It is a tangy and liquid refreshment that can be consumed on its own or used in cooking and baking.
Digestive aid: Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which aids in digestion and helps soothe the stomach. It is often recommended to alleviate indigestion and acidity.
Probiotics: Similar to curd, buttermilk contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut. These beneficial bacteria contribute to a balanced gut flora, aiding in digestion and supporting the immune system.
Nutrient-Rich: Buttermilk is a good source of several essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and phosphorus.
Low in fat: Compared to whole milk, buttermilk is lower in fat, making it a lighter option for those watching their fat intake.
Hydration: Buttermilk is a hydrating beverage, provides essential fluids to the body.
Bone health: The calcium and phosphorus in buttermilk are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Weight management: With its lower fat content and filling nature, buttermilk can be a satisfying and low-calorie option for those looking to manage their weight.
Cooling effect: In many cultures, buttermilk is considered a cooling beverage, making it a popular choice during hot weather to help cool the body.
Which is better for you - Curd or buttermilk?
In the discourse between curd and buttermilk, Ayurveda suggests that buttermilk is a superior and health-conscious alternative to curd. The revelation that curd's active bacterial strains trigger heightened fermentation upon encountering heat, leading to increased body warmth, contrasts sharply with buttermilk's unique ability to cease fermentation when water is introduced, ensuring a cooling effect.
The digestive realm further tips the scale in buttermilk's favor. Churning curd into buttermilk not only facilitates digestion but also accelerates the process, rendering it particularly beneficial for individuals grappling with indigestion. This transformation enhances buttermilk's hydrating properties, elevating it to a more effective fluid replacement than curd.
The addition of condiments like cumin powder, pink salt, and cilantro not only enriches buttermilk's flavor profile but also amplifies its health benefits. Research findings indicating buttermilk's potential role in controlling high blood pressure, attributed to milk fat globule membranes, add a cardiovascular health dimension.
FAQs
Ayurveda advocates for buttermilk as a more health-conscious choice compared to curd. It highlights that the active bacteria in curd intensify fermentation when exposed to heat in stomach, which can raise the body's temperature.
Which is better at night curd or buttermilk? ›
Curd should not be devoured during the night as it will increase Kapha in the body which will lead to various diseases. According to Ayurveda buttermilk can be drunk at any time of the day. You can drink it after meals.
What happens if we eat curd 3 times a day? ›
It is high in protein, calcium, and vitamins, which help with immunity, digestion, and skin health. Curd benefits also promote weight loss, heart health, and blood sugar regulation.
Which is cold for body curd or buttermilk? ›
As per Ayurveda, not only is buttermilk lighter to digest, but it also suits all body types. It is believed that curd leaves a warming effect on the body, while buttermilk is cooling in nature. If that blows your mind, then read on to know why buttermilk could be better for your body in terms of its cooling effects.
Is it OK to drink buttermilk everyday? ›
Studies have shown that a small amount of buttermilk each day can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people with high cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is tied to heart disease and strokes, so keeping your levels to a healthy range will really help your health.
Which is good for constipation, curd or buttermilk? ›
*For digestion: Buttermilk is light in nature, making it very easy to digest; it also helps to stimulate appetite. Curd is heavy to digest, and hence should be avoided for dinner. Also, it is best to stick with sweet buttermilk if someone has digestive issues like constipation, gastric or acid reflux, etc.
Can we drink buttermilk after eating curd? ›
The combination of milk and curd can cause acidity, diarrhea, heartburn, and bloating. Both are rich in protein and fats and it is advised not to consume both at the same time. Suggestions offered by doctors on Lybrate are of advisory nature i.e., for educational and informational purposes only.
Can I use curd instead of buttermilk? ›
To make a dairy-based buttermilk substitute, add an acidic substance — typically lemon juice, vinegar, or cream of tartar — to milk. You can also use plain yogurt, sour cream, kefir, or buttermilk powder.
Are there probiotics in buttermilk vs yogurt? ›
Buttermilk is actually another cultured milk product, but it is the odd one out of the three products. The culture for buttermilk is more pH sensitive than the yogurt and kefir, so during the fermentation process the culture actually dies and there are no probiotics left for your gut.
When should you not eat curd? ›
However, you should avoid curd if you are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products. Those who have kidney problems or high cholesterol levels should consume curd in moderation. It is best to consult your doctor or nutritionist to ensure you do not consume it more than the recommended intake.
The best time to eat curd is in the morning or the afternoon. Ayurveda recommends consuming curd after lunch and dinner, as it helps in boosting digestion. Eating curd in night can disturb your sleep cycle and lead to various digestive issues.
How much curd is enough for a day? ›
As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to consume 100-200 grams of plain curd each day, which is roughly equivalent to half a cup. However, when you are losing weight, limiting your curd intake to 100 grams per day is advisable.
Which is more beneficial curd or buttermilk? ›
Curd is rich in probiotics, protein, calcium, boosts immunity, aids in lactose digestion, and may regulate blood pressure. Buttermilk aids in digestion, contains probiotics, is nutrient-rich, low in fat, hydrating, supports bone health, aids in weight management, and has a cooling effect.
Is buttermilk good for your liver? ›
Buttermilk contains riboflavin that helps in converting food into energy which can be used by the body to perform various functions. It also helps in the secretion of certain hormones, improves liver function and facilitates detoxification of the body.
Can we drink buttermilk at night as per Ayurveda? ›
According to Ayurveda, buttermilk can be drunk at any time of the day. You can drink it after meals. However, it is important to pay attention to the weather and place before consuming it in the evening or at night.
Does buttermilk have more probiotics than yogurt? ›
Buttermilk is actually another cultured milk product, but it is the odd one out of the three products. The culture for buttermilk is more pH sensitive than the yogurt and kefir, so during the fermentation process the culture actually dies and there are no probiotics left for your gut.
Which is healthier curd or yogurt? ›
Curd is rich in calcium, iron, potassium, and vitamin B6, whereas, yogurt is a wonderful source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. Consuming yogurt lowers the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol. On the other hand, curd is known to stimulate the brain and aids in the digestion process.
Which is the healthiest curd? ›
Greek yogurt
It's also packed with filling protein. "Most Greek yogurts have about twice the protein as regular yogurt," she says. When choosing a yogurt to call the healthiest, Linsenmeyer says “anything unsweetened” would be a top contender.
Is curd good or bad for you? ›
Eating curd can help improve your digestion, boost immunity and promote healthy gut health. Curd is also high in calcium and protein, which boost bone health and muscle growth. It will also promote healthy skin and hair health.
