Everyone loves a cooling glass of chaas or a dish of curd rice on a hot day. The fermented dairy product is made by adding a little bit of curd or lime juice to lukewarm milk, and leaving it to set overnight.
The bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus aids the fermentation. Many health and nutritional benefits come with having curd every day. Here, we list some:
Curd is a complete food with therapeutic properties, digestive enzymes, carbohydrates, proteins and minerals (particularly calcium).
It helps in alleviating ulcers, acidity, flatulence, fungal disorders and constipation.
Curd enriches the gut flora by arresting the growth of toxic bacteria in the colon.
It helps fight cancer cells, especially in the pancreas.
Curd with lime juice is a good remedy for alkaline stools, which cause a burning sensation in the anus.
Taking curd with sugar first thing in the morning can provide relief from migraines and headaches.
Curd acts as an effective antidote for copper poisoning.
It also has cosmetic properties. Massaging a mixture of curd and coconut oil on the scalp helps relieve dandruff. It also helps dry skin.
Buttermilk or chaas, which is made by churning curd with water, makes for an ideal cooling drink. It helps you hydrate on a hot day.
While curd is available in packets in the market, it is always better to make it at home, and change the starter curd once in a while. With so many health benefits, it is of little wonder that it is a staple food for many.