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Yoghurt, frequently called curd, is a nutrient-dense food that has long been praised for improving digestion and general health. Its ability to promote intestinal health is among its most noteworthy advantages.
Curd for gut health is a powerful addition to your diet, thanks to its high concentration of probiotics—beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive system.
In this blog, let us look at the benefits of including curd in your daily diet.
First things first: What is curd or yoghurt?
Curd or yogurt is a fermented milk product made by adding bacterial cultures to milk. The bacteria in the culture, typically Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, feed on the milk's lactose (milk sugar), producing lactic acid as a byproduct. This process causes the milk to curdle and thicken, resulting in a thick, creamy, and tangy liquid.
What are the key characteristics of curd?
- Curd or yoghurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and probiotics (beneficial bacteria).
- It has a thick, creamy texture and a tangy, slightly sour taste.
- It can be made from the milk of various animals, including cows, goats, sheep, and buffalo.
- Curd or yoghurt is popular in many cuisines, particularly in Indian, Greek, and Turkish cooking.
Does eating curd daily present your gut with enough probiotics? Uncover the truth by watching the video below.
Probiotic properties of curd
Curd, also known as yoghurt, is an excellent source of probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. The probiotic properties of curd make it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
1. Curd as a source of probiotics
Curd contains a variety of beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Streptococcus thermophilus. These probiotic bacteria can help:
- Activate the immune system: The probiotics in curd can activate the immune system by boosting theproduction of antibodies and immunological cells.
- Assist in digestion: Lactose and other nutrients can be more easily absorbed with the aid of probiotics. They can help lessen the signs and symptoms of other digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Vitamin production: The probiotics in curd can produce essential vitamins, including biotin and vitamin K, which are necessary for a number of body processes.
2. Balancing gut bacteria through regular consumption
Regular curd consumption can support the preservation of a balanced population of gut bacteria, which is essential for overall health. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance of gut flora, has been connected to a number of health problems, such as:
- Digestive problems: Diarrhoea, constipation, and bloating can occur when the gut microbiome is out of balance.
- Inflammatory conditions: An imbalance of gut bacteria can contribute to inflammation, which is associated with conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Mental health: There is a growing body of research suggesting a link between the gut microbiome and mental health, with an imbalance of gut bacteria potentially contributing to anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
By incorporating curd into your diet, you can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being.
Also read: How to Improve Your Gut Health And Microbiome Impact?
Nutritional value of curd
Curd is a nutrient-dense food that provides a wide array of essential nutrients, making it an excellent addition to your diet. Understanding its nutritional value can help you appreciate its health benefits even more.
|
S.No. |
Nutrient |
Nutritional Value (100g serving) |
% of Daily Recommended Value |
|
1 |
Total Fat |
4.2 g |
5% |
|
2 |
Saturated Fat |
2.658 g |
13% |
|
3 |
Polyunsaturated Fat |
0.129 g |
- |
|
4 |
Monounsaturated Fat |
1.194 g |
- |
|
5 |
Cholesterol |
14 mg |
5% |
|
6 |
Sodium |
371 mg |
16% |
|
7 |
Total Carbohydrate |
3.45 g |
1% |
|
8 |
Dietary Fiber |
0 g |
0% |
|
9 |
Sugar |
1.3 g |
- |
|
10 |
Protein |
11.75 g |
- |
|
11 |
Calcium |
72 mg |
6% |
|
12 |
Iron |
0.13 mg |
1% |
|
13 |
Potassium |
99 mg |
2% |
|
14 |
Vitamin A |
42 mcg |
5% |
|
15 |
Vitamin C |
0 mg |
0% |
Read more: Improving Gut Health and Digestion with Diet and Lifestyle
Top benefits of curd for gut health
Curd is more than just a nutritious dairy product—it’s a natural powerhouse for supporting gut health. Packed with probiotics, essential nutrients, and digestive benefits, curd offers a wide range of health advantages. From improving digestion to boosting immunity, regular consumption of curd can have lasting positive effects on the gut and overall well-being.
Digestive health improvement
Curd is rich in probiotics that enhance digestive health by balancing beneficial gut bacteria, leading to more efficient digestion. It can soothe an upset stomach by restoring gut balance and alleviating symptoms like bloating and gas. Regular consumption also helps clear harmful bacteria from the digestive system, promoting overall gut health and preventing digestive issues.
-
Enhancement of gut activity
Curd is rich in probiotics, which stimulate healthy gut activity by improving the balance of beneficial bacteria. This helps break down food more efficiently and promotes smooth digestion. -
Treatment of an upset stomach
The probiotics in curd can help soothe an upset stomach by restoring balance in the gut flora and reducing discomfort caused by indigestion, bloating, or gas. -
Clearing out the digestive system with good bacteria
Regular consumption of curd ensures that the digestive system is cleared of harmful bacteria while increasing the presence of good bacteria. This cleansing effect improves overall gut function and keeps digestive issues at bay.
Nutritional contributions to gut health
Beyond its probiotic benefits, curd is a nutrient-dense food that contributes vital vitamins and minerals, playing a crucial role in promoting digestive wellness.
-
Curd as a source of vitamins and minerals
Curd is rich in probiotics and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, vitamin B12, and magnesium, which are crucial for gut health and overall well-being. -
Role of nutrients like calcium, vitamin b12, and magnesium in digestion
These nutrients play vital roles in digestive health: calcium strengthens the lining of the digestive tract, vitamin B12 supports energy metabolism, and magnesium helps maintain muscle function, including the muscles in the digestive system.
Immunity boosting through gut health
Curd is not just a tasty addition to meals; it significantly supports the immune system through gut health. Packed with beneficial probiotics, curd fosters a balanced gut environment, essential for a strong immune response.
Let’s explore how regular curd consumption can enhance immunity and overall health.
-
Creation of strong immunity against diseases
A healthy gut, maintained by regular curd consumption, leads to a stronger immune system. The good bacteria in curd support the body’s ability to fight off infections and reduce inflammation. -
Overall health improvements from good gut bacteria
Since gut health is linked to overall health, the probiotics in curd improve digestion, boost energy levels, support mental well-being, and enhance the body’s response to illnesses.
Ayurvedic perspective on curd for digestive health
In Ayurveda, curd is considered vital for digestive health, enhancing digestive fire (Agni) and nourishing the body. It also helps balance the doshas, particularly Pitta and Vata, promoting overall digestive wellness.
-
Importance of curd in Ayurvedic diet
In Ayurveda, curd is considered an essential part of a balanced diet. It is believed to promote digestive fire (Agni) and maintain the health of the digestive system. -
Curd's role in balancing bodily systems
Ayurveda emphasises the role of curd in balancing bodily systems. It is said to nourish the body, improve digestive strength, and harmonise the doshas (bodily energies), particularly Pitta and Vata, making it a valuable food for digestive health.
Also read: How Does Gut Health Affect Your Body & Why It Matters?
Thanks to curd’s rich probiotic content and essential nutrients, curd can significantly enhance gut health. It improves digestion, boosts immunity, balances gut bacteria, and promotes overall wellness. Embrace the benefits of curd for gut health and experience the positive changes it brings to your body and mind.
For more on gut health and optimizing digestive well-being, check out The Good Bug. They offer a wealth of resources, tips, and expert advice on incorporating probiotics into your diet, along with a range of beneficial products.
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