Many people confuse yogurt and curd, using the terms interchangeably. But the question occurs, are they really the same? While both are dairy products made by fermenting milk, yogurt and curd differ in preparation, nutrition, and health benefits. Let us distinguish the major differences with the most searched questions.
What is Curd?
Curd is an age-old milk product created by curdling milk with a natural acidic medium such as lemon juice or vinegar. In most Indian homes, hot milk is kept overnight with a spoon of curd to form new curd for the following day. It contains lactic acid bacteria but quality and quantity are based on its preparation.
What is Yogurt?
Yogurt is produced by fermenting milk with specific bacteria strains, Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. They are standardized and give yogurt its smoothness, sourness, and uniform probiotic benefits. Unlike curd, yogurt has regulated bacterial cultures, making it more uniform in quality.
Is Yogurt and Curd the Same Thing?
The answer is no, yogurt and curd are not identical. While both are fermented dairy products, the bacterial cultures used are different. Curd may or may not include probiotics depending on the fermentation process. Yogurt, however, is scientifically cultured to provide live probiotics that are beneficial to the gut.
Yogurt vs. Curd: Nutritional Differences
- Curd: High in calcium, protein, and good fats. Can aid digestion but probiotic level is questionable.
- Yogurt: High in protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and probiotics. Supports digestion, immunity, and gut microbiome balance.
Overall, yogurt is superior in nutrition due to its controlled fermentation and higher count of probiotics.
Which is Better for Digestion?
Yogurt is better for digestion because it offers live probiotics that trigger friendly gut bacteria. Curd can help in digestion, but since it is not standardized in its bacterial composition, the benefit may not be consistent.
Which is More Suitable for Weight Loss?
Both curd and yogurt are low-calorie, high-protein items that are great for weight loss. Yogurt is, however, largely unsweetened while Greek yogurt is more filling and can help with enhanced metabolism. Curd can be adopted as a lighter substitute in traditional recipes.
Which is Better for Lactose Intolerance?
People suffering from mild lactose intolerance can digest yogurt better than curd. Yogurt has probiotics which digest lactose, reducing digestive discomfort.
Health Benefits of Curd and Yogurt
- Curd: Strengthens bones, calms the stomach, facilitates digestion.
- Yogurt: Improves gut health, immunity, weight, and skin.
What Should i Choose Yogurt or Curd?
you can opt for yogurt, if you require probiotics and consistent health benefits. But if you prefer a homemade, traditional, cooling milk product, curd will be appropriate. Both can be added to a healthy diet according to your needs.
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