Curd almighty

As far as its curative properties are concerned, curd has a nutritive content similar to fresh milk, but is more therapeutic. Bacteria, which convert milk into curd and predigest milk protein, inhibit the growth of hostile or illness causing bacteria in the intestinal tract and promote beneficial bacteria needed for digestion. The friendly bacteria facilitate the absorption of minerals and aid in the synthesis of Vitamin B.

According to the research conducted, eating curd regularly can improve and strengthen one8217;s defence system. And since it contains large amounts of phosphorus, it is good for people suffering from or at risk of osteoporosis.

The research also suggests that sphingolipids, conjugated linoleic acid and butyric acid found in curd can play a role as anti-cancer agents.

The intestine-friendly bacterial cultures in curd can keep colon healthy and lower the risk of colon cancer. Also, yogurt is a rich source of calcium, a mineral that contributes to colon health and decreases the risk of cancer.

Curd also brings relief to people suffering from gastro-intestinal disorders like constipation and diarrhoea. Since it contains less lactose and more lactase, curd is usually tolerated by healing intestines and is a popular 8220;healing food8221;. Not surprisingly, many paediatricians recommend yogurt for children suffering from various forms of indigestion. Research shows that children recover faster from diarrhoea if they eat curd.

The research also says that it is good to supplement curd with meals if one is on antibiotics. Curd8217;s friendly bacteria minimise the effect of antibiotics on one8217;s body.

Dr GC Vaishnava, senior consultant and coordinator, internal medicine, Fortis, says, 8220;The live bacterial cultures in curd replenish intestines with helpful bacteria before the harmful ones take over.8221; What is the prescribed dose? 8220;I usually prescribe a daily dose of curd while a person is taking antibiotics and for two weeks thereafter,8221; he says.

Suffering from insomnia? Have curd, it can induce sleep. Besides that, excessive liberation of ammonia 8212; which is one of the major causes of coma in patients suffering from hepatitis and severe jaundice 8212; can be prevented by a liberal intake of curd everyday. The lectic acid organisms can counteract the formation of ammonia.

Besides its health benefits, curd is also considered one of the best aids to natural good looks. Curd, when supplemented with fruits, supplies the nerves and skin with healthy ingredients. Instead of mayonnaise, have thick curd. It will keep your skin glow.

How to add more curd to your daily diet, here are some healthier alternatives. Replace mayonnaise and salad dressings with thick curd. Non-fat, plain curd contains less than 10 of calories. Curd works well for many dishes, including potato salad, pasta salad, dips and appetisers.

Use curd as a healthy alternative in baking recipes. Plain curd can be a great substitute for sour cream in recipes for waffles, pancakes and muffins. Make dips with curd instead of sour cream. One can use curd cheese than cream cheese. Use curd extensively to marinate meat and poultry.