Earlier this week, Dr Sayajirao Gaikwad, a homoeopathy practitioner from Maharashtra, took to X (formerly Twitter) to bust some of the most common myths surrounding curd. His post quickly gained attention for cutting through misinformation with simple, science-backed explanations.
Myth 1: Curd Causes Cold, Cough and Sinus Issues
One of the most common beliefs is that curd increases mucus and triggers colds. According to Dr Gaikwad, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
If someone experiences discomfort after eating curd, it is usually due to individual sensitivity or poor digestion — not because curd itself causes respiratory problems.
Myth 2: Curd Should Never Be Eaten at Night
Another popular belief is that curd is harmful after sunset. However, Dr Gaikwad clarified that plain curd is safe at night for most people.
Problems arise only when curd is combined with heavy, oily, or sugary foods, which can slow digestion and cause discomfort.
Myth 3: Curd Leads to Weight Gain
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. In reality, curd is rich in protein and probiotics, both of which help improve satiety and support metabolism.
When consumed in moderation, curd may actually assist in weight management rather than causing weight gain.
Myth 4: Curd Is Bad for Digestion
Fresh curd is known to improve gut health by supporting good bacteria in the digestive system. It can help with lactose digestion and improve overall gut balance.
Digestive issues usually occur when curd is over-fermented, sour, or consumed in excess — not because curd is harmful.
Myth 5: Curd Should Not Be Eaten With Meals
Traditional Indian meals have always included curd, and for good reason. As per Dr Gaikwad’s explanation on X, curd helps regulate blood sugar levels after meals and improves nutrient absorption.
When eaten in the right quantity, it can actually enhance digestion.
Myth 6: Diabetics Must Avoid Curd
This is another widespread misunderstanding. Plain, unsweetened curd has a low glycaemic load and can help improve insulin sensitivity.
Diabetics can safely consume curd in controlled portions, as long as it is not sweetened or flavoured.
Myth 7: All Packaged Curd Is Probiotic
Not all store-bought curd contains live probiotic cultures. Some packaged versions are heat-treated, which kills beneficial bacteria.
Dr Gaikwad advises choosing homemade curd or clearly labelled probiotic yoghurt for maximum health benefits.
The Truth About Curd No One Told You
Curd is neither a miracle food nor a dietary villain. As Dr Sayajirao Gaikwad pointed out on X, its effects depend on quality, quantity, and individual tolerance.
When consumed fresh, plain, and in moderation, curd remains one of the most nourishing and affordable foods in the Indian diet. Instead of blindly following food myths, listening to your body and relying on credible medical advice makes all the difference.
It appears you are referring to a viral health advisory shared by Dr. Sayajirao Gaikwad, a homeopathy practitioner from Maharashtra. His recent post on X (formerly Twitter) gained significant traction for debunking common misconceptions about curd (dahi) using a science-backed approach.
Here are the 7 important facts (myths vs. reality) he highlighted to help you consume curd correctly:
1. Curd does NOT cause colds or sinus issues
Many believe curd increases mucus production. Dr. Gaikwad clarifies there is no scientific evidence for this. If you feel congested after eating it, it is usually due to an individual sensitivity or poor digestion, not the curd itself.
2. It is safe to eat at night
The common "rule" of avoiding curd after sunset is mostly a myth. Plain curd is safe at night for most people. Problems usually arise only if it is paired with heavy, oily, or sugary foods that slow down your metabolism before sleep.
3. Curd helps with weight loss, not gain
Because it is rich in protein and probiotics, curd increases satiety (the feeling of being full) and supports metabolism. When eaten in moderation without added sugar, it is an excellent tool for weight management.
4. Fresh curd improves digestion
The "good bacteria" (Lactobacillus) in fresh curd help balance the gut microbiome and can even help those with mild lactose intolerance. Digestion issues typically only occur if the curd is over-fermented, too sour, or consumed in excess.
5. It should be eaten WITH meals
Unlike some diet trends that suggest eating fruit or dairy separately, traditional Indian wisdom of having curd with meals is backed by science. It helps regulate blood sugar spikes after a meal and improves the absorption of nutrients from your food.
6. Diabetics can safely consume it
Unsweetened curd has a low glycemic load. It can actually improve insulin sensitivity, making it a healthy addition for diabetics, provided they stick to controlled portions and avoid flavored/sweetened versions.
7. Not all store-bought curd is "probiotic"
Many packaged curds are heat-treated to increase shelf life, which kills the live beneficial bacteria. Dr. Gaikwad recommends homemade curd or specifically labeled "probiotic" yogurt to ensure you are actually getting the gut-health benefits.
Pro-Tip for Curd Lovers
If you find plain curd too "heavy," another popular Maharashtra health expert, Dr. Jagannath Dixit, suggests consuming it in the form of thin buttermilk (chaas). He recommends a ratio of about 15ml curd to 200ml water as a healthy way to stay hydrated between meals.
Would you like me to find some healthy Ayurvedic ways to "temper" curd (like adding cumin or black pepper) to make it easier to digest?
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