10 Amazing Curd Benefits for Kids

Dahi poori, raita, curd rice, lassi, or buttermilk – curd is a yummy staple in the Indian household that fills us in many forms! Also, who can forget being fed curd before exams? Nostalgia aside, curd benefits adults and kids in many ways. It is rich in calcium and phosphorous and is also an excellent probiotic. Did you know curd can be extremely beneficial to fast-growing tiny tots? Here we bring to you 10 amazing curd benefits for kids!

Curd Benefits for Kids

1.Immunity

Curd is rich in Lactobacillus delbrueckii, a live bacterium that helps boost white blood cells in the blood. WBCs are the infection fighters of our body, helping fight off infections.

2. Digestion

Curd has rich nutrients readily available for absorption by growing kids. Even children who are lactose intolerant or allergic to whey / milk proteins, find curd a trouble-free treat. With its simplified proteins, curd benefits everyone from young to old.

3. Diarrhoea

Curd is usually the first recommended food when kids suffer from diarrhoea because of its digestive issues fighting nature and its mildness on the stomach.

4. Sleep

Curd contains tryptophan, the element that is broken down by the brain to secrete sleep-inducing melatonin. The calcium present in curd further encourages the brain to utilize the tryptophan. Because of this, regular use of curd can help your little one have a good night’s sleep.

5. Allergies, rashes and hay fever

A study conducted in New Zealand concluded that babies who were fed yogurt 2 to 6 times a week were 50 to 80% less likely to develop allergies, eczema or hay fever. Feeding curd in infancy helps babies build a healthy microbiome that helps them fight off smaller allergies.

6. UTI

Cultured dairy products rich in good bacteria like curd and yogurt decreases the risk for UTIs (urinary tract infections) by 80%.

7. Probiotic

Curd is an excellent probiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. The right balance in gut flora helps restore digestive health, mental health, immune function, heart health and allergies. Regular consumption of curd can help dissipate anxiety, fear and stress and improve cognitive function. 

8. Dandruff

The anti-bacterial power of lactic acid in curd keeps away dandruff. It is an excellent hair mask in itself and can also be mixed with your regular skin and hair care for glowing skin and hair.

9. Bones and teeth

A valuable member of the dairy family, curd benefits the fast growing bones and teeth in little children. It is also rich in magnesium, potassium, sodium, zinc, phosphorus and vitamins, which helps your little ones stay strong and healthy.

10. Ulcers

Curd inhibits the growth of H. pylori in the digestive tract, which is the most common cause of peptic ulcers worldwide.

What is the best time to eat curd?

To reap the maximum benefits from curd, it is best to have it in the day. Ideally, before sunset. However, you can give your children smaller quantities of curd, like as raita, with dinner.

How much curd should be eaten daily?

For tots venturing into solids, a few spoonfuls of curd is plenty. You can increase curd gradually up to a bowl a day. Adults can have up to 3 servings of curd in a day.

Does curd increase weight?

By improving digestion, nutrition absorption, reducing cholesterol and providing strength to bones, curd is an amazing weight loss companion. Curd encourages burning of fat in the body. It is rich in proteins and has low carbs, which can keep you feeling satiated for longer without inducing binge eating.

Is curd good for skin?

The lactic acid in curd works magic in skin care. Lactic acid promotes the shedding of dead skin cells and fights fine lines, wrinkles and other early signs of ageing. It is also an excellent moisturizer that leaves your skin and hair feeling supple and smooth. 

The vitamin D in curd reduces redness, acne breakouts, and tans, leaving your skin with a healthy glow. You can also use curd to soothe rashes, blisters, and sunburns, thanks to its zinc content. Curd is also beneficial in reducing oiliness and dark circles.

Can curd have side effects?

Despite its amazing benefits, curd does have a side effect. The casein in curd can trigger mucus production or thicken up phlegm. It is not advisable to have curd if you are suffering from:

• Cold, cough, or runny nose.
• Sinusitis.
• COPD or asthma.

It is also a safer bet to reduce curd intake in winters and in the later parts of the day. Want to know about another superfood for your baby? Check out Amazing Ragi Benefits here!

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