Understanding The Key Differences Between Yogurt & Curd

How’s the Josh to welcome summer? Your kitchen shelves must be set with gut-friendly, light, and cold beverages to shield up against the scorching sun. Curd and Yogurt must have taken their place back in Indian households and supermarkets.

Hold On! 

Are you also someone who thought yogurt was just another name for curd? Both are fermented dairy products that look almost alike but differ in many ways. 

Surprised and Confused?

They are creamy indulgences that differ in taste, texture, nutritional content, and preparation. 

Dive into this blog to uncover what sets yogurt apart from curd and how each comes with its nutritional values and health benefits. 

What is the Difference between Curd & Yogurt?

Understanding the major difference between curd and yogurt will help you make informed decisions about your diet and make necessary modifications according to your body's needs.

The Making of Curd Vs Yogurt

Preparation of Curd

You must have seen your mom prepare curd at home by adding a spoon, lemon juice, vinegar, or any other natural acidic substance to the milk. Adding these acidic substances initiates the process of fermentation, where the lactic acid bacteria changes lactose or milk sugar into lactic acid, thickening the milk into curd.

The bacteria involved in the making of curd is Lactobacillus delbrueckii, which converts the milk sugar into lactic acid through glycolysis, causing the milk to coagulate.

Preparation of Yogurt

Yogurt is commercially made using certain bacterial strains, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. The process of yogurt preparation starts in a monitored setting to maintain the taste, texture, and probiotic benefits.

In supermarkets, you can find plain yogurt, Greek yogurt, or flavored yogurt. Greek yogurt differs from plain yogurt as it is strained to remove whey, making it thicker and creamier than normal yogurt. 

Bacterial Presence In Curd Vs Yogurt

Curd is a naturally fermented dairy product that consists of several types of lactic acid bacteria, whereas yogurt i. In contrast, yogurt is produced under controlled conditions, using specific kinds of bacteria to maintain uniformity in taste, texture, and probiotic benefits.

Taste, Texture & Flavour

Curd is generally prepared at home and is soft, with a tangy or tart taste, whereas yogurt is much thicker, creamier, and has a uniform taste and texture as it is prepared in a controlled setting. 

You can add natural sweeteners such as jaggery or honey to homemade curd. Yogurt, on the other hand, is commercially prepared and available in various flavors, such as mango, banana, blueberry, strawberry, chocolate, peanut butter, and others, popular in both the Indian and international markets.

Kitchen Usage - Curd Vs Yogurt

Curd is used in Indian cuisine to make kadhi lassi, raita, dahi bhalla, dahi papdi chat, buttermilk, and curries. It blends well with Indian flavors and enriches the dishes' taste. 

Yogurt, being thicker, is used to prepare smoothies, desserts, and dips and as a topping in many dishes. Its probiotic properties make it beneficial for gut health.

You May Also Read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/food-and-nutrition/curd-benefits-a-delicious-superfood-for-your-health-and-wellness/

Here are some interesting facts about Curd and Yogurt you should know:

Quick Facts about Curd & Yogurt

Curd

• Curd has a low-calorie content compared to yogurt

• It is a rich source of calcium, improving bone health.

• Being high in Vitamin B12, it supports nerve function.

• It is a probiotic that improves gut health and digestion.

• Curds have protein, which helps in the growth and repair of muscle.s 

Yogurt

• Yogurt has beneficial bacteria that enhance immunity.

• The probiotic properties of yogurt promote digestion and gut health. 

• It has a low lactose content compared to curd and is suitable for people who are lactose intolerant or have digestive disorders.

• It is a rich calcium and protein source that keeps the bones and muscles healthy.

Nutritional Value in Curd vs Yogurt

Nutritional Value	Content per 100g of Curd	Content per 100g of Yogurt
Calories	60-80 kcal	60-70 kcal
Protein	3.5 g	4-5 g
Fat	3 g	3-4g
Carbohydrates	4-5 g	4-6g
Calcium	85-100 mg	100-120 mg

Health Benefits of Curd

Adding curd to your diet will help you reap numerous health benefits. These unique properties in curd have helped it earn a special place in every Indian kitchen and household.

Aids Digestion

Curd contains good bacteria that boost digestion by breaking down food and absorbing nutrients. Moreover, it has good bacteria that keep the gut healthy by balancing the gut flora and reducing digestive issues such as constipation and bloating

Boosts Immunity

The probiotics and live cultures in curd help fight harmful bacteria and enhance immunity. The regular consumption of curd can protect you against infections by improving the body’s defense mechanism.

Strengthens Bones

A rich source of calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D helps maintain strong bones and improves dental health. The protein content in curd helps repair muscles

Good for Skin

Curd is good for skin health and is often used in preparing face masks due to its soothing and hydrating properties.

Lowers Cholesterol

Eating curd regularly can lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of hypertension and heart disease, and keep the heart healthy.

Additionally, it helps reduce weight as its protein keeps you fuller for longer, curbing hunger pangs.

Health benefits of Yogurt

Powerhouse of Nutrients

Yogurt contains essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamins B and D. The protein content is excellent for muscle repair and growth, making it a must-add to the diet of athletes, children, and fitness enthusiasts looking to increase muscle mass and strength. Moreover, the calcium, vitamin B12, and magnesium content improve bone health and brain function and increase energy production. 

Improves Gut Health

Yogurt's bacteria improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion. As a rich source of probiotics, the good bacteria in it keep the gut healthy and are beneficial for people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and digestive disorders.

Weight Management

 Yogurt's protein content keeps you full for longer, reducing calorie intake and helping with weight loss.

Boosts Immunity

Yogurt's probiotics act as immunity boosters and fight harmful bacteria.

In addition to these, regular yogurt consumption can be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis, supporting mental health, and boosting energy levels. 

You May Also Read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/food-creative/curd-nutrition-facts-how-many-calories-in-1-cup-advantages-and-benefits/

Which Is Better For Weight Loss - Curd or Yogurt

Curd and yogurt are known to be effective in weight loss due to their high protein content. They keep you full for longer and reduce cravings and calories, helping you lose weight effectively. 

However, yogurt can be considered by people who are lactose intolerant. Additionally, yogurt has potassium, making it a great choice for people with high blood pressure.

The Bottom Line

Curd and Yogurt are distinct from each other but have unique health benefits to offer. Having each in moderation will help you reap their health benefits.

 Also, you should consult a dietician or get yourself tested to determine if you have any allergies and understand your body's requirements before making dietary changes. You can trust Redcliffe Labs as your diagnostic partner and enjoy free home sample collection, diet charts, and doctor consultations.

The next time someone tells you curd and yogurt are the same, you can clarify their doubts.

FAQ

Are curd and yogurt good for weight loss?

Yes, both curd and yogurt are good for weight loss as they help curb hunger pangs and reduce the intake of calories.

What are the flavors of yogurt available?

Yogurt is commercially prepared and available in various flavors, such as mango, banana, chocolate, and strawberry.

What are the health benefits of having curd?

Consuming curd regularly will improve gut health, lower cholesterol, boost immunity, and help overcome digestive disorders.