In this article:
What Is the Recommended Daily Intake of Curd and Buttermilk?
Curd: One to two small bowls of curd (170 grams), low-fat curd can be consumed by most pregnant women daily.
Buttermilk: One to two glasses of buttermilk is ideal in summer or after your meals to aid digestion.
However, remember that if you are already consuming milk or paneer, extra dairy may lead to digestive discomfort. Always consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.
Curd vs Buttermilk: What Works Best During Pregnancy?
Curd: Thick, rich, high in protein and fat – Curd is filling and can be helpful when you do not feel hungry.
Buttermilk: It is lighter, a hydrating beverage, and is very easy to digest. It is one of the easiest ways to combat nausea, acidity, and bloating, all of which can be a pain in pregnancy. Drinking a glass of plain buttermilk with jeera powder and a tiny pinch of salt after meals is a very popular remedy.
Both curd and buttermilk can be consumed on the same day without any problem, provided they are consumed in moderation. Buttermilk is a diluted and churned form of curd. This also makes it most suitable during the second and third trimesters, when one may feel bloated and heavy.
Cold Curd During Pregnancy
In Indian households, cold curd during pregnancy is often considered taboo. However, there is no clinical evidence suggesting that cold curd will harm a healthy pregnancy. It is only wise to consume curd at room temperature if you are prone to throat infections or sinus problems, or are down with a cold. Otherwise, the nutritional content of the curd does not change depending on whether it is cold or not.
What to Avoid While Consuming Curd and Buttermilk During Pregnancy?
Avoid curd made from raw, unpasteurized milk, as it may carry bacteria that can cause infections.
Never choose flavoured or sweetened yoghurts available in the market; they contain added sugar and are not equivalent to curd.
- Do not add excessive salt to your buttermilk.
- Do not store curd for long hours at room temperature.
- Extremely sour curd can increase acidity or heartburn symptoms in pregnancy.
Can Curd Aid Pregnancy Symptoms?
Yes, in various ways, it may provide relief in case of:
- Constipation
- Acidity and heartburn
- Nausea
- Vaginal infections
- Dehydration
When Should I Visit My Physician?
You should visit a physician when you are experiencing:
- Increased lactose intolerance.
- Unusual swelling, frequent loose stools, or discomfort after consuming dairy products.
- Been advised to follow a diet that restricts dairy consumption.
Curd and buttermilk are two of the most harmless and nutritious items in the pregnancy diet that do not cost much or require too much effort. Moderate quantities, avoidance of sugary and extra salty options and consumption of pasteurised milk are all you need to enjoy these beneficial foods.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Daily Curd and Buttermilk During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?
- Can curd and buttermilk be taken while having gestational diabetes?
Yes, it is advisable to take curd and buttermilk in an unsweetened form during gestational diabetes because they contain proteins and calcium in addition to being low in sugar. - Is buttermilk effective in dealing with morning sickness?
Indeed, consuming simple buttermilk can prove extremely helpful during pregnancy in relieving morning sickness and acid reflux. The lightness of buttermilk, along with its easy-to-digest nature, proves extremely soothing for the stomach lining. For relief from nausea and acidity, consuming buttermilk mixed with a little cumin powder (jeera) and salt can be beneficial. - When should you take buttermilk during pregnancy?
Buttermilk should preferably be taken after meals, specifically at lunchtime, since buttermilk may assist in digestion. It will also be beneficial for you when taken during the summer to remain hydrated.
