Curd is widely considered a nutritious addition to daily meals, known for its calcium content and probiotic benefits that support gut health. However, health experts emphasize that when you consume it can significantly impact how your body processes it. A growing concern is whether eating curd at night may lead to digestive discomfort rather than benefits.
According to Dr Sukrit Singh Sethi, curd is a relatively dense food that requires active digestion. During the daytime, when the body is more active, digestion functions efficiently. At night, however, metabolism slows down, making it harder for the body to properly break down heavier foods like curd.
When curd is consumed during dinner and followed by lying down, the digestive process can become sluggish. This often results in symptoms such as acid reflux, a feeling of heaviness in the chest, and overall discomfort. The horizontal position after eating further complicates digestion, as the stomach struggles to process thick foods effectively.
Another key concern highlighted by experts is fermentation in the gut. If curd remains undigested for longer periods, it can begin to ferment inside the digestive system. This process may lead to gas formation, bloating, and even disturbed sleep. While curd is often associated with a cooling effect on the body, its impact on digestion at night may outweigh these benefits.
For those who still prefer something light and cooling in the evening, a better option is buttermilk. Buttermilk is essentially a diluted version of curd with reduced fat content, making it easier to digest. It moves more smoothly through the digestive tract, keeps the body hydrated, and is gentler on the stomach during late hours.
Experts generally recommend consuming curd during lunch, when digestive strength is at its peak. This allows the body to fully absorb its nutrients without causing strain. At night, lighter alternatives like buttermilk can offer similar benefits without the risk of digestive discomfort.
While curd remains a healthy food choice overall, mindful timing can make a significant difference in how your body responds to it.