The use of curd for soothing an upset stomach is a practice passed down through generations, yet it's also a common suspect when acidity flares up. This conflicting advice can be confusing and leaves many wondering if a simple bowl of curd is a remedy or a trigger for their discomfort.

The truth is that curd is neither entirely good nor bad for acidity; it's all about context. This guide will clarify the science behind curd's effect on your gut, revealing why a simple factor, like its freshness, can change everything. You’ll also identify which curd pairings to avoid and how to make curd a digestive ally.

Key takeaways

• Curd's effect on acidity isn't a simple case of good or bad; it's all about context

• Fresh, plain curd is a probiotic powerhouse that can help your gut, while sour or aged curd can trigger discomfort

• Avoid common curd pairings like raw onion, fried foods, and certain fruits, as they can lead to bloating and acidity

• The key to a happy stomach is consuming curd mindfully, ideally during the day and in the right combinations

Is curd good for acidity?

The suitability of curd for acidity is often debated, with many people turning to it for relief. The belief that curd can soothe the stomach stems from its potential to aid digestion and neutralize stomach acid. This is primarily due to a few key properties:

• Probiotic properties: Curd contains beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that help balance the gut's microbiome, which is vital for proper digestion and can prevent acidity from the start

• Soothing effect: The cool, thick texture of curd can provide immediate relief by coating the stomach lining and calming the burning sensation associated with acid reflux

• Nutrient-rich: As a nutrient-dense food, it provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall gut health

While a bowl of curd is a time-tested classic, for those seeking a refreshing alternative to boost their daily probiotic intake, The Good Bug's Water Kefir is a perfect choice.

Does curd worsen acidity?

Despite these benefits, curd's acidic and fermented nature can also worsen symptoms for some individuals. The issue often lies not with the curd itself, but with its state and how it's consumed:

• Sour or aged curd: As curd ages, its lactic acid content increases, making it more sour and acidic. Consuming sour curd can potentially aggravate an already sensitive stomach and trigger acid reflux

• Quantity and timing: Consuming large quantities or eating curd at night can also be problematic. The body’s digestive fire is lower at night, which can slow down digestion and lead to increased fermentation and acidity

For this reason, plain, fresh, and low-fat curd is generally the safest choice. Alternatively, diluted buttermilk (chaas) is an excellent way to get the benefits of curd with less of the acidity.

9 common curd combinations to avoid

While curd is often a go-to for soothing a fiery stomach, its benefits can be entirely undone by what you pair it with. The wrong food combinations can ignite a digestive conflict, leading to more bloating, discomfort, and acidity than you started with.

Here are some common combinations to reconsider and better alternatives to explore:

1. Fish

Combining curd with fish can lead to indigestion and gut discomfort due to the contrasting protein types. It's best to avoid them in the same meal. 

Alternative: Try using a squeeze of lemon or mild herbs to enhance the flavor of fish instead of curd.

2. Mango

This combination is popular but can be a problematic duo. The opposing properties of the "sweet and hot" mango and the "sour and cold" curd can disrupt digestion and create an imbalance in the body, leading to skin issues or digestive trouble. 

Alternative: Enjoy mango as a standalone snack or dessert, and pair curd with berries or other non-conflicting fruits.

3. Raw onion

While a staple in many raitas, raw onion can increase fermentation in the gut, leading to bloating and gas, which can worsen acidity. 

Alternative: Use roasted or sautéed onions, or replace them with cucumber or carrots in your raita.

4. Nightshade vegetables

Avoid pairing curd with vegetables from the nightshade family, like tomatoes, bell peppers, or eggplant (brinjal). The combination of curd's fermented nature with the specific properties of these vegetables can lead to indigestion and discomfort.

Alternative: Consider using vegetables like gourds or pumpkin as a more compatible pairing.

5. Milk

Combining curd with milk can disrupt digestion. As both are dairy products, they have different fermentation processes and require different enzymes to digest, which can slow down your system and cause discomfort. 

Alternative: Have milk and curd at different times of the day, with at least a 2-3 hour gap.

6. Fruits with high water content

Fruits like watermelon, cucumber, or muskmelon can interfere with digestion when mixed with curd. The high water and sugar content can dilute stomach acids and hinder the digestion of the curd, leading to issues like bloating and indigestion. 

Alternative: A better and more compatible companion for curd is pomegranate.

7. Processed sugar

Adding processed sugar to curd can disrupt the gut bacteria, slowing down the digestive process and causing fermentation, which can worsen acidity. 

Alternative: Use natural sweeteners like a drizzle of honey, jaggery, or dates in moderation.

8. Fried or spicy foods

While curd is often used to cool the palate after a spicy meal, pairing it with fried or spicy foods can overload the digestive system, leading to slow digestion and gut fermentation. 

Alternative: Use a mild buttermilk (chaas) to soothe the palate, as it's lighter than curd. 

9. Citrus fruits

The high acidity of citrus fruits like lemons and oranges can cause the curd to curdle and separate in your stomach. This can lead to indigestion and a sour taste in your mouth, worsening acidity symptoms. 

Alternative: Opt for bananas or cooked apples as a gentler alternative to citrus fruits with curd.

Still facing discomfort despite avoiding these pairings? Try The Good Bug's Acidity Aid for a more targeted relief.

How to consume curd for better digestion?

Making curd a part of your daily ritual can be an effective way to support your gut, but it's all about mindful consumption. Follow these simple guidelines to make sure your curd works for you, not against you.

• Choose plain and fresh: Always opt for fresh, plain curd. Avoid curd that is more than a day old, as its increased lactic acid content can be a trigger for acidity

• Consume during the day: The ideal time to consume curd is during the day, particularly with lunch. Your digestive system is most active at this time, allowing for proper breakdown and absorption

• Pair it right: Avoid the food combinations we discussed earlier, such as raw onions, fried foods, and citrus fruits, as they can lead to digestive discomfort

• Dilute it with water: For a lighter, more soothing option, dilute curd with water and a pinch of salt or jeera to make a refreshing glass of buttermilk

• Consider alternatives: If curd isn't providing the relief you need, try lassi, coconut water, or bananas. For those who are lactose intolerant, lactose-free curd or plant-based yogurts can offer similar benefits without triggering symptoms

• Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body responds to curd. If you feel any discomfort or bloating, it may be a sign to reduce your intake or reconsider your consumption habits

• Consult a doctor: If your symptoms are severe or persistent, always consult a doctor or a registered dietitian

The debate over whether curd helps or harms acidity has a simple answer: it does both. It's not about giving up on this nutritious food, but rather about approaching it with mindfulness. By understanding the science behind fresh vs. sour curd and being aware of a few key food combinations, you have the power to turn a potential trigger into a powerful tool for your digestive health.

For an added boost to your digestive wellness, consider integrating quality probiotics from The Good Bug, designed to complement your dietary efforts and support a balanced gut microbiome.

FAQs

1. Is curd alkaline or acidic? 

Curd is acidic due to its lactic acid content. However, once consumed, it can have an alkaline-forming effect on the body, which is a key reason why it's used to soothe an upset stomach.

2. Why should I avoid curd at night? 

It is often recommended to avoid curd at night because your digestive system slows down while you sleep. Consuming a heavy, fermented food like curd can lead to sluggish digestion and increased fermentation, potentially causing discomfort or acidity.

3. What is the fastest way to reduce acidity? 

For quick relief, try drinking a glass of cold water, sipping on a cup of fennel tea, or chewing a piece of chewing gum, as this can stimulate saliva production and help neutralize acid.

4. Can I eat curd during gastritis? 

Eating curd during gastritis is a matter of personal tolerance. While fresh curd can have a soothing effect, the acidity may aggravate an inflamed stomach lining. It is best to consult your doctor before consuming it.

5. Can I eat curd on an empty stomach? 

While curd provides beneficial probiotics, some people may find that its acidic nature can trigger acidity when consumed on an empty stomach. It's generally better to have it after a light meal or with other foods.