What is the Difference Between Curd and Lassi? Which is Healthier?

Introduction

Curd vs Lassi – Which is Healthier?

Curd (Dahi) and Lassi are both popular traditional dairy products in India. While curd is a staple in almost every household, lassi is often enjoyed as a refreshing summer drink. Many people wonder – which one is healthier? Let’s find out in detail.

What is Curd?

Curd, also known as Dahi, is made by fermenting milk with the help of friendly bacteria. It is rich in probiotics, calcium, protein, and vitamins. Regular consumption of curd improves digestion, boosts immunity, and keeps bones strong.

What is Lassi?

Lassi is a refreshing drink prepared by blending curd with water. It can be sweetened with sugar, flavored with cardamom or rose water, or enjoyed as salty lassi with added spices. It is hydrating, cooling, and helps in digestion during hot weather.

Difference Between Curd and Lassi

Texture: Curd is thick, while lassi is liquid and lighter.
Calories: Curd generally has more calories, but lassi can be high in sugar if sweetened.
Digestion: Both help digestion, but lassi is more cooling in summer.
Nutrients: Curd is more nutrient-dense, while lassi is hydrating.

Which is Healthier?

If you want more nutrition, protein, and probiotics – curd is the better option. But if you want a light, cooling, and hydrating drink in summer – lassi is the best choice. Both have their own benefits depending on your body’s need and the weather.

Conclusion

Both curd and lassi are healthy in their own ways. Curd is ideal for everyday nutrition, while lassi is perfect for staying cool and refreshed in the summer. Choosing between them depends on your health goals and lifestyle.

Milk products have always held a special place in Indian cuisine. Dairy-based foods are not only delicious but also rich in nutrition. Both curd and lassi are traditional items that are commonly consumed in almost every household. A glass of lassi in summer provides coolness and freshness, while a bowl of curd aids digestion.

 

But people often ask – what is the difference between curd and lassi, and which one is healthier?

In this article, let us compare both in detail.

 

What is Curd?

Curd is a fermented dairy product made by setting milk. It contains probiotic bacteria such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. These bacteria convert the lactose (sugar) in milk into lactic acid, which thickens the milk and turns it into curd.

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Nutrients (per 100 g plain curd):

Calories: 61 kcal

Protein: 3.5 g

Fat: 3–4 g

Carbohydrates: 4–5 g

Calcium: 100 mg

Phosphorus: 80 mg

Potassium: 150 mg

Vitamins: B2 (Riboflavin), B12, D

Probiotics

 

Health Benefits of Curd

1. Strengthens the digestive system – Probiotics increase the number of good bacteria in our gut.

2. Good for bones and teeth – Calcium and phosphorus help in strengthening bones.

3. Boosts the immune system – Probiotics and vitamin B12 enhance immunity.

4. Helps in weight management – Keeps you full for longer and controls appetite.

5. Supports heart health – Regular intake helps control cholesterol levels.

6. Useful for lactose-intolerant people – Curd contains less lactose than milk, making it easier to digest.

 

What is Lassi?

Lassi is a liquid drink made from curd. To prepare it, curd is churned and mixed with water and either salt or sugar. Lassi can be made in both sweet and salted forms.

 

Nutrients (per 100 ml sweet lassi):

Calories: 150–180 kcal (depending on sugar content)

Protein: 3 g

Carbohydrates: 20–25 g

Fat: 2–3 g

Sodium and potassium (electrolytes)

 

Health Benefits of Lassi

1. Provides coolness in summer – Helps balance body temperature.

2. Prevents dehydration – Salted lassi restores water and electrolyte balance.

3. Improves digestion – Reduces acidity and gas after heavy meals.

 

4. Instant energy – Sweet lassi boosts energy quickly.

 

5. Prevents heat stroke – Helpful in protecting against summer heat and sunstroke.

 

Detailed Difference Between Curd and Lassi

Aspect             –                Curd                   –                Lassi

 

Preparation Method. –   Made by setting –      milk Made                                                      by churning curd with water

Form        –                      Solid, thick     –              Thin, liquid

Calories        –                Low        –       Higher in sweet lassi

Nutrition  –             Higher in protein & calcium   –  Best                                                            for hydration & electrolytes

Taste  –                      Slightly sour    –        Sweet or salted

Best Time to Consume –       Morning or night –  Afternoon, especially in summer

Best For     –       Weight loss & nutrition    –  Hydration and cooling

 

Ayurveda and Modern Science

 

Ayurveda

Curd is considered “Guru” (heavy to digest). It provides strength but increases phlegm, hence it is advised to avoid curd at night.

Lassi is “Tridosh Shamak” – it balances Vata, Pitta, and Kapha and is considered especially beneficial for digestion.

 

Modern Science

Curd is regarded as an excellent probiotic food.

Lassi is considered a natural hydrating drink.

 

Who Should Prefer What?

 

1. People trying to lose weight → Curd (higher protein, lower calories).

2. Diabetic patients → Plain curd or salted lassi (avoid sweet lassi).

3. Athletes and children → Both are good, but sweet lassi provides quick energy.

4. Kidney and liver patients → Moderate curd intake is fine; salted lassi may also be beneficial.

5. During summers and heat waves → Salted lassi is the best option.

 

When and How to Consume Curd and Lassi?

Morning: Curd with fruits → good for digestion and energy.

 

Afternoon: Salted lassi → best for hydration and cooling.

Evening: Curd smoothie → beneficial for weight loss.

Night: Curd should be avoided if you have phlegm or cold issues; otherwise, light curd can be taken.

 

What Do Scientific Studies Say?

 

Journal of Nutrition (2019): Regular curd consumption improves gut health and reduces the risk of digestive diseases.

Ayurveda International Journal (2020): Lassi is one of the best ways to keep the body hydrated in summer.

 

FAQs

 

Q1. Can we consume curd and lassi daily?

Yes, but keep the quantity balanced – 100–150 g curd and 1 glass lassi is sufficient.

 

Q2. Is eating curd at night harmful?

Yes, it may increase phlegm. Avoid it at night if you have such problems.

 

Q3. Do curd and lassi help in weight loss?

Curd, yes – because it has more protein and fewer calories.

 

Q4. Is sweet lassi suitable for diabetic patients?

No, they should prefer salted lassi or plain curd.

 

Conclusion

 

Both curd and lassi are integral parts of Indian food.

If you want

nutrition and protein, curd is better.

If you want cooling and hydration in summer, lassi is more beneficial.

When consumed in the right amount and at the right time, both can improve your health.