Are the cooling properties of curd just a myth?

Is curd your favourite thing during the sweltering summer? You’re not alone! Many of us reach for that tangy delight when the temperature rises. But have you ever wondered if curd is truly cooling or if it’s secretly adding to the heat within?

Content creator, Dr Nishant Gupta, on Instagram shared a video mentioning, “Curd doesn’t keep you cool in summer because the nature of curd is hot.”

 

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Shivani Bajwa, a functional medicine expert disagreed and said that it’s advisable to eat curd during the summer season. “Curd is not only refreshing but also beneficial for digestion. It helps cool the body and provides essential nutrients like calcium and probiotics, which aid in maintaining gut health.”

Shoubham Garg, founder and CEO of Miracolo Hospitality said, “While the video is not incorrect, it seems partially bent to explain one’s perspective. Yes, it is good for the body to eat curd during the summer season. Curd is recommended due to its cooling properties and numerous health benefits, especially in hot weather.”

Eating curd can prevent heat-related issues and boost your immune system. However, make sure the curd is fresh and stored properly to avoid any spoilage. Overall, incorporating curd into your summer diet can help you stay cool and healthy, added Bajwa.

Does curd have a cooling effect or a heating effect on the body?

G Sushma, clinical dietician at CARE Hospitals Banjara Hills, Hyderabad said, “Curd has a cooling effect on the body. It helps in reducing body heat and provides relief from the summer heat.”

As per Ayurveda, curd is a hot food. (Source: Freepik)

Pooja Shah Bhave, consultant dietician and diabetes educator, Mumbai, mentioned that ayurvedic doctors advise adding moong water, amla powder, honey, cow’s ghee, or hingvashtak.”Curd appears cool but as per Ayurveda, it is a hot food. It will have a heating effect on the body after digestion.”

How does curd impact digestion in hot weather?

Shriya Nayak, owner of Mamba Restobar said, “Curd aids digestion in hot weather due to its probiotic content, which helps maintain gut health and prevents digestive issues.”

Curd improves digestion in hot weather by providing beneficial probiotics that promote a healthy gut. These good bacteria help break down food more efficiently and maintain a balanced gut flora. Curd also soothes the stomach and prevents common digestive problems like bloating, constipation, and indigestion, said Bajwa.

Risks associated with eating curd in summer

While curd is generally safe and beneficial, there are a few considerations, G Sushma mentioned:

*Lactose Intolerance: People with lactose intolerance may experience digestive issues.
*Acidity: In some individuals, curd can cause acidity or heartburn.
*Contamination: Ensure curd is fresh and stored properly to avoid bacterial contamination, which can be more common in hot weather.

Should people with certain health conditions avoid curd in summer?

People having sensitive cold and cough reactions to curd or sour food or citrus fruits may avoid curd. People suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout should limit curd and prefer buttermilk. As curd is considered ‘vaat’ causing food it may aggravate inflammation common in these conditions. People having allergic asthma or bronchitis or chronic liver disease should limit curd in general in any season, Bhave mentioned.

Few studies have shown that having curd may worsen bilirubin levels in patients with chronic liver disease. But all the above said people may have to limit curd in any season and not just summer, added Bhave.

How can curd be incorporated into a summer diet?

Curd can be easily incorporated into a summer diet in several ways. Enjoy it plain or with a sprinkle of salt or sugar. Add fresh fruits like mangoes or berries for a delicious snack. Use curd as a base for smoothies or lassi, a refreshing Indian drink, said Bajwa.

Simply have freshly prepared curd at room temperature. Also, buttermilk is more soothing in summer. Curd can be taken along with moong water as a kalan or kadhi. Do not add sugar just because the curd is sour. If the curd becomes sour either make kadhi or add it to your oats or millet pancakes, dosa, or idli instead, suggested Bhave.

Curd is a highly beneficial food to include in one’s summer diet due to its cooling properties, digestive benefits, and versatility. People must only ensure that it is consumed fresh and stored properly to avoid any health risks, Garg said.

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