There are many beliefs and myths about curd, such as that eating curd causes a cold, that curd should not be eaten at night, or that it is heavy for the stomach.
Misconceptions about yogurt
In India, yogurt is a staple in almost every household. Some enjoy it with meals, some make raita, and others prefer sweet yogurt. While yogurt is considered cooling in the summer, some avoid it in the winter. Similarly, there are many myths and beliefs surrounding yogurt, such as the belief that eating yogurt causes colds, avoiding yogurt at night, or that it's heavy on the stomach.
Dr. Palaniappan Manickam, a board-certified gastroenterologist in the United States, addressed all these questions and misconceptions in detail in his Instagram post on February 27th. He explained the benefits of yogurt, the right amount, the right time, and common misconceptions in simple terms. So, let's explore the simple answers to 13 major questions related to yogurt.
13 Major Misconceptions About Yogurt:
1. Is yogurt really good for health? Yogurt is beneficial for health. It contains protein, calcium, and good bacteria (probiotics). These bacteria help maintain a healthy gut and improve digestion. Eating yogurt regularly and in the right amounts can provide numerous benefits.
2. Does yogurt improve digestion? Yogurt helps digestion for most people. The live cultures it contains help maintain the balance of good and bad bacteria in the intestines. This can reduce problems like gas, constipation, and indigestion.
3. Does eating yogurt cause coughs and colds? - It's a common belief that yogurt causes colds, but this isn't true for everyone. Most people don't get colds from yogurt. However, if someone is sensitive to colds or already has a cold, they may experience some discomfort.
4. Is it okay to eat yogurt at night? If someone doesn't have any problems eating yogurt at night, they can eat it. However, doctors advise against eating dinner too late. It's best to eat around 7 p.m.
5. Is yogurt better than milk? For many people, yogurt is easier to digest than milk. The bacteria in yogurt help break down the lactose in milk, making it easier on the stomach. Therefore, yogurt can be considered better than milk in terms of digestion.
6. Does yogurt cause acidity? In general, yogurt helps reduce acidity. It cools the stomach, but if the curd is too sour, it can increase acidity in some people. Therefore, it is better to eat fresh and mild curd.
7. Is homemade curd better or packaged curd? Homemade curd is usually fresher and less adulterated. The good bacteria in it are more active. Packaged curd is also fine, but fresh homemade curd is often considered more beneficial.
8. How much curd should be consumed daily - For a normal person, about one cup of curd daily is sufficient. More quantity is not required. Its benefits are obtained only in a balanced quantity.
9. Can diabetics eat yogurt? Diabetics can eat plain, unsweetened yogurt. It has a low glycemic index, which prevents a rapid rise in blood sugar. However, sweetened or flavored yogurt should be avoided.
10. Does yogurt cause bloating? Most people don't experience bloating from yogurt, but those with lactose intolerance may experience some gas or bloating.
11. Is it okay to eat yogurt every day? If your body can easily digest dairy products, it's safe to eat yogurt daily. It can be a part of your diet.
12. What is the best time to eat yogurt? Eating yogurt with lunch is considered ideal. It's easily digestible and improves digestion.
13. Can yogurt be eaten with fish or meat? Yogurt can be eaten with protein-rich foods like fish, chicken, or mutton. The fear and confusion surrounding this have no scientific basis.
