Unveiling the truth behind eating curd in monsoon

While the monsoon makes us crave for many different things to eat, curd is something that we are often warned against. It is believed that curd, a milk product obtained by fermentation of milk, should not be consumed during the monsoon season as it is cold, and may cause a sore throat. This has led to many avoiding curd in monsoon. However, is there any truth to these claims? Let’s dive into the science behind curd and debunk some common misconceptions to reveal its surprising health benefits, monsoon season or not!

Why is curd avoided during monsoon?

Curd in monsoon is an unpopular choice as people feel that it can cause cold and indigestion if it is eaten during a cold season. With the rains outside, monsoon season comes with cravings for something tangy and spicy. So while, most people tend to have crispy pakodas, they avoid curd in monsoon. However, if you are someone who enjoys a cup of curd with your food regularly, monsoon might not mean that you need to stop eating it. It is time to celebrate curd and bust some of the myths related to it:

Myth 1: Consuming curd can cause cold in monsoon season

Fact:

Can we eat curd in rainy season? Yes, it is absolutely fine to have curd in monsoon, at room temperature, with your meals. In fact, as it has a probiotic component, it  helps in preventing gastrointestinal disorders irrespective of the season. A study, published in Nutrition Reviews, suggests that yogurt and other fermented products are improved lactose indigestion and tolerance.

Myth 2: Curd is difficult to digest in the monsoon season

Fact:

The protein present in curd is more easily digestible than milk due to the number of live (good) bacteria present in it. Casein protein may be more highly digestible by pepsin in fermented milk than in raw milk in the stomach, states this study, published in Nutrients. Therefore, eating curd during monsoon season is absolutely okay.

Myth 3: Curd should not be consumed at night

Fact

Consuming curd at night or before going to sleep is believed to be beneficial due to a component called tryptophan, which helps in regulating the sleep -wake cycle. It can also reduce anxiety and relax the brain, states this study in International Journal of Tryptophan Research.

Also, read: 5 facts about curd to prove it’s the superfood you need this summer

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Myth 4: Lactating mothers must avoid curd as it can cause cold to both the mother and baby

Fact

Curd contains active bacteria, which help in digestion. The probiotic components of yogurt or curd helps in relieving constipation, diarrhoea and does not cause cold or cough to either the mother or the baby. A study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, suggests that yogurt is great for gastronomical health.

Myth 5: Pregnant mothers must avoid curd in pregnancy

Fact:

Pregnant mothers often face digestive problems. Hence, they must be encouraged to have curd in at least one of their meals in a day as its main bacterial component, lactobacillus acidophilus, is responsible for the digestion in the small intestine.

Myth 6: It’s better to avoid curd as it can make you fat

Fact:

Toned and skimmed milk curd is also available in the market for the ones conscious or trying to watch their fat intake. Apart from fat, curd is also packed with calcium, vitamin D, potassium and protein, and helps in better calcium absorption. A study, published in Advances in Nutrition, stated that yogurt was the only dairy food that had beneficial effects on weight, waist circumference, and risk of obesity.

Myth 7: Kids shouldn’t be given curd in the monsoon

Fact

Curd is an excellent immunity builder and prevents inflammation. Hence, kids must be encouraged to eat curd and they can also add fruits and veggies to the same to make it tastier and nutrient dense.

So, you can at curd every day without any hesitation, irrespective of which season of the year it is. This immunity builder and probiotic will not let you down. However, if you have any underlying medical conditions, it is very important that you consult your doctor before eating curd in monsoon, or otherwise as well.

Summary

While there are many myths about eating curd in monsoon, it is absolutely safe to eat curd in any season. In fact, curd has a variety of health benefits including better digestion, no weight gain and stronger immunity.

FAQs

Who should avoid curd?

While curd is safe for everyone, people who are lactose intolerant, or are allergiv to milk protein should stay away from curd.

In which month should curd not be eaten?

There is no season which does not allow curd to be eaten. In fact, curd in rainy season, and other wise, comes with a variety of health benefits and can be consumed any time.