The Wholesome Wonder: Curd as a Whole Food in Ayurveda 

Yogurt, or curd, as a whole food Ayurveda as a nutritious food that has many health advantages. Because of its classification as a sattvic meal, it is said to support mental purity, clarity, and tranquility. Freshness, preparation technique, and individual digestive capacity are some of the elements that affect curd’s digestibility. Curd that has been produced freshly and fermented properly is typically thought to be easier to digest.

Qualities of curd as per Ayurveda

• Snigdha (Unctuous): Curd is said to have Snigdha property because it has a velvety, smooth texture. This attribute is said to balance the Vata dosha, making it advantageous for people with Vata imbalances or a Vata constitution.
• Guru (Heavy): Curd is another word for guru, which means heavy. While this property can be calming for Vata, those with a preponderance of Kapha dosha may need to take it in moderation.

Curd (yogurt) as a whole food in ayurveda is known to include probiotics, or good bacteria, which are thought to enhance overall health. These friendly bacteria are believed to have a positive effect on the digestive system and may offer numerous health advantages. 

• Prebiotics are indigestible fibers that promote the development and function of favorable bacteria in the gut. Ayurveda may not use the term “prebiotic” specifically, but a typical Ayurvedic diet includes a range of high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Foods like these boost healthy gut flora and aid with digestion.
• Probiotics balance the intestinal flora, creating a healthy environment in the digestive tract. They might improve digestion and the absorption of nutrients. The gut plays a major role in the immune system, and a healthy gut flora is necessary for immunological function. The probiotics in curd might aid with immune system regulation. The probiotics in curd may aid in the digestion of lactose, the sugar present in milk. For this reason, people who are lactose intolerant could find that curd is simpler to stomach than fresh milk.

Benefits of Curd

• Controlling Weight:

Curd’s high protein content contributes to satiety, which is advantageous for controlling weight. Curd can help you manage your appetite and consume fewer calories overall.

• Skin Conditions:

Zinc and vitamin E, two elements found in curd, may help promote better skin. Curd is also applied topically by some people as a natural treatment for skin issues like acne and sunburn.

• Emotion and Mental Wellness:

Ayurveda food diet has possible connection between mental health and intestinal health. The gut-brain axis may affect mood, and curd’s probiotics might help maintain a healthy gut, which in turn may improve mental wellness.

• Properties of Cooling:

Since curd as a wholefood in ayurveda has a cooling quality (shita virya), it is commonly advised for people with pitta dosha (excessive heat) in their constitution or during hot weather. It alleviates and balances Pitta dosha.

• Vata Dosha balancing:

Curd can be helpful for people who have an aggravated Vata dosha (burning sensation in stomach, thirst, feeling or desire to eat or drink cool food items, etc) or during Vata-related imbalances. It is regarded as nutritious and aids in balancing the Vata characteristics.

• Encourages Ojas:

Ojas is regarded as the fundamental component of all body tissues, supporting general health, immunity, and vigour. According to Ayurveda, eating curd as a whole food in ayurveda in moderation can aid in the development of ojas.

Basic Curd Recipes 

1. Lassi:

Lassi is a traditional Indian drink prepared by combining fresh curd that is a wholefood in ayurveda with different spices and water. Salted or spicy lassi can be good for Vata and Kapha doshas, whereas sweet lassi with a hint of jaggery or honey balances Pitta dosha.

1. Thayer Sadam, or curd rice:

Curd rice is a traditional South Indian dish that is prepared by mixing cooked rice with curd and seasoning it with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and mild spices. It is appropriate for hot weather because of its well-known calming and cooling qualities.

1. Raita:

A side dish called raita is created with curd and other vegetables, such as carrot, tomato, or cucumber. A sprinkle of black salt, coriander, and cumin are examples of possible seasonings. Raita is refreshing and goes well with regular meals, as a brunch munchy or snack as well. 

1. Layering fresh curd with seasonal fruits, almonds, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup creates a delicious and healthful parfait. This is a satisfying, well-balanced brunch dish or dessert.
2. Avocado Yoghurt Dip: Mash ripe avocados and mix with curd wholefood in ayurveda to create a creamy, nutrient-dense dip. Add herbs, a little lemon juice, and some black pepper for flavor.
3. Blend curd with your favorite fruits—berries, bananas, or mangos, for instance—to create a hydrating, nutrient-rich smoothie. You can use a tiny bit of honey for sweetness.
4. Vegetable salad with curd: Combine fresh curd with finely chopped vegetables, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Add spices and herbs for quick flavoring.

Essential minerals like calcium, vitamin B12, vitamin D, phosphorus, and protein can be found in curd. These nutrients are critical for immunological response, bone health, and general health. Curd’s high protein content contributes to satiety, which is advantageous for controlling weight. Curd as a wholefood in ayurveda can help you manage your appetite and consume fewer calories overall. Zinc and vitamin E, two elements found in curd, may help maintain better skin. Curd may be used topically by some people as a natural treatment for skin issues like acne and sunburn.