Buttermilk vs Curd: Which is Better to Beat the Summer Heat
During scorching summer months, both curd and buttermilk help cool the body, but buttermilk offers superior hydration, digestion benefits, and weight management compared to curd.
As temperatures soar, adapting our diet becomes essential to stay cool and energized. In India, many turn to dairy-based products like curd and buttermilk to refresh themselves, but a common question arises: which one is better for summer consumption? While curd and buttermilk share similar nutrients, their effects on the body can differ significantly.
Curd can be transformed into buttermilk simply by adding water, but this process changes its properties. Curd has a thicker consistency, which provides good nutrition but is less effective at hydrating the body quickly. Buttermilk, on the other hand, contains almost 90 percent water, making it an excellent choice to instantly replenish fluids lost due to heat.
Digestion is another area where buttermilk has an advantage. Curd takes longer to digest, sometimes causing a feeling of heaviness in the stomach during summer. Buttermilk is lighter, aiding quicker digestion, and adding ingredients like cumin powder or ginger can further enhance its digestive benefits.
According to Ayurvedic principles, curd has a slightly warming effect, whereas buttermilk provides a cooling effect when consumed, making it more suitable to regulate body temperature in hot weather. For those looking to manage weight, buttermilk is preferable due to its low calorie content despite containing proteins, while curd typically has a higher fat percentage.
Nutritionally, curd remains valuable for calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth. If calcium intake is a priority, curd is beneficial. However, for relieving summer heat and maintaining hydration, buttermilk is the superior choice.
In summary, buttermilk emerges as the perfect summer drink. Consuming at least two glasses of diluted buttermilk daily can keep the body refreshed and healthy. If you prefer curd, midday consumption is better, as eating it at night may increase mucus production. By choosing wisely between these two dairy options, you can enjoy both nutrition and relief from the heat.
