Curds, or dahi as it is known in many Indian households, contribute to a large part of the dairy items consumed in various forms across the country. It is well recognized for its probiotic properties and cooling effects, but there are frequent confusions about whether curds do add up to weight loss or gain. The answer is both-in that weight depends on how, when, and how much of it an individual consumes. Curd for Weight Loss or Weight Gain? Know the Truth.
Curd has several advantages, such as protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and healthy fats. Probiotics play a huge role in gut health which aids in digestion. Low-fat curd has fewer calories, while full-fat or sweetened curd varieties are more calorie dense.
How Curd Aids in Weight Loss
Protein Bonus: Curd is high in protein which leads to fullness and less craving.
Metabolism Booster: Probiotics mostly reduce digestive irregularities which, in turn, would boost metabolism and fat burning.
It’s Low In Calories: Curd, when taken plain or unsweetened, would serve as a light and filling snack, suitable for calorie watchers.
Tip: For best results in a weight loss diet, go for low-fat curds and mix them with fruits or salads.
How Curd Could Cause Weight Gain
Calorie-Dense Varieties: Sweetened curds, flavored yogurts, or those prepared from full-cream milk might prove calorie-dense.
Stimulated Appetite: At times, the cooling and soother property of curd might provoke appetite and cause one to overindulge.
Paired with Calorie-Dense Foods: Consuming curd with parathas, rice, or sugar-laden sides could turn to gain in weight.
Tip: For healthy weight gain, take curd with nuts, honey, or along with calorie-rich meals.
The decision regarding curd assisting one’s scale or not is dependent on how one treats it in one’s diet. For example, to lose weight, go for low-fat unsweetened curd couplings and for healthy weight gain, consume full-fat or sweetened products. In both cases, portion and dietary pattern come into play.