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Is honey and curd an expert-approved combination for gut health?

Yoghurt is a dairy product processed by fermenting milk that has been supplemented with beneficial bacteria

5 min read
curd honeyHere's how curd and honey combination works (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

In the past, we have done many stories highlighting how certain foods may not be compatible with each other — something Ayurveda calls ‘viruddha aahar‘. Some such foods include fish and milk, and equal quantities of ghee and honey, among others. As such, when we came across the recipe for a ‘high-protein‘ breakfast recipe that is prepared using honey (which is sweet) and yoghurt (which is tangy) on Instagram recently, we were intrigued to find out if the two ingredients can be clubbed together for good health. So, in our quest to find out the answer, we reached out to experts. If you too wish to know the truth behind this (seemingly delicious) combination, stay tuned. But before that, allow us to share the recipe with you.

“So easy, nutrient-dense and so damn delicious! It’s important for your first meal to be high in protein and good fat so you have stable blood sugar throughout the day that helps you experience clean energy, no crashes, and no cravings. Try it and let me know!” Arjita Singh, a nutritionist, wrote on Instagram as she shared the recipe for an instant pudding.

Ingredients

300gm – Curd/yoghurt
1.5 cup – Pomegranate
4tbsp – Soaked chia seeds (soak 1.5 tbsp chia seed in water, it will give you 4-5tbsp soaked chia in the morning)
1 tbsp – Honey (optional)
1.5 scoop unflavoured protein powder
10 – Soaked and peeled almonds
10 – Soaked black raisins

Method

*In a bowl, add the ingredients and give it a good mix.

What makes the pudding healthy?

According to Singh,

*”Curd is great for good health and has good protein. Yoghurt has more protein than curd but curd has more probiotic benefits than yoghurt. You can use either,” said Singh.

*Soaked raisins are great for digestive and immune health.

*Soaked almonds are rich dietary fibre, vitamin E, Omega-3 fatty acid, protein. Soaked almonds are undeniably superfood for all ages.

*Pomegranate gives you a boost of antioxidants, is a great anti-cancer food, is anti-inflammatory, is rich in vitamin K, C, fibre, potassium, and is great for heart, brain and digestive health!

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*Chia seeds are rich in omega 3 fats, fibre, antioxidants, and keeps you full for long.

According to Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, hung curd or yoghurt is a dairy product processed by fermenting milk that has been supplemented with beneficial bacteria. “It is filled with nutrients such as calcium, vitamins, protein, phosphorus, B12, and a good amount of probiotics. Probiotics are live microbes, primarily beneficial bacteria, and yeasts. These microorganisms support gut health improving digestion, and bowel movement,” said Dr Patil.

The nutritional value of honey can vary depending on the type of honey, but in general, it is a good source of antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals such as iron, zinc, potassium, and calcium,  added Dr Patil. “Honey comprises a range of useful components, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. These two have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including decreased inflammation and enhanced cardiovascular health,” she told indianexpress.com.

So, does the combination of honey and curd good for the gut?

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When you mix curd and honey, you get a food that is high in protein, calcium, and probiotics, and also contains the beneficial compounds found in honey. “This combination can be a healthy snack or dessert option that provides a balance of macronutrients and beneficial compounds for your body,” said Dr Patil.

Agreed Preeti Gupta, a dietician, and added that curd and honey mix can be helpful for digestive health. “Both curd and honey contain nutrients and compounds that promote healthy digestion and can help alleviate digestive issues. The combo is good for nervous system and it can also help shedding weight as both the components eaten in limits can improve gut health,” said the founder of Perfect Health by Preeti Gupta. 

Have you tried yogurt pudding? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

She also shared another recipe of hung curd and honey that you can whip up to add flavour to your meals. “This quick and easy recipe with honey and curd will satisfy your snack cravings,” she said.

Recipe for Honey Curd Dip

Curd and honey are usually used in separate sweet and savory recipes in Indian cuisine, but here’s an experimental recipe that combines the two, said Dr Patil.

Ingredients

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1 cup – Plain yogurt (curd)
2 tbsp – Honey
1 tbsp – Olive oil
1/2 tsp – Cumin powder
1/2 tsp – Coriander powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Method

*In a bowl, whisk together the yoghurt, honey, olive oil, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
*Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
*Serve as a dip with vegetables, pita bread, or chips.

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