What Ayurveda Really Says About Eating Curd at Night

According to Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, the consumption of curd (yogurt) at night is generally discouraged. Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of proper food combining and considers the qualities of different foods and their impact on digestion.

Curd is considered heavy and cooling in nature, and it increases the Kapha dosha in the body. Kapha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda that governs stability, structure, and lubrication. Consuming curd at night is believed to disrupt the digestive fire (agni) and create an imbalance in the body.

Here are a few reasons why Ayurveda suggests avoiding curd at night:

1. Impaired digestion: Curd is said to be difficult to digest, especially when consumed at night. The digestive fire tends to weaken as the day progresses, and consuming heavy foods like curd can further burden the digestive system, leading to indigestion, bloating, or heaviness.
2. Mucus formation: According to Ayurveda, curd has the potential to increase mucus production in the body. Excessive mucus can clog the channels and disrupt the flow of energy and nutrients.
3. Aggravation of Kapha: Consuming curd at night is believed to aggravate the Kapha dosha, leading to symptoms like congestion, cold, lethargy, and weight gain.

However, it’s important to note that Ayurvedic recommendations are not universally applicable. Some individuals may tolerate curd well at night without experiencing any negative effects. It depends on various factors such as one’s unique constitution (Prakriti), digestive strength (agni), and overall health condition.

If you enjoy consuming curd at night and it doesn’t cause any discomfort or digestive issues for you, you can continue to do so. However, if you notice any adverse effects or have a Kapha-predominant constitution, it might be beneficial to limit or avoid curd at night. It’s always a good idea to listen to your body and make choices that support your well-being. Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs.