🥣 Is Dahi Really Cooling? Ayurveda Says It’s Hot! Here’s the Truth You Didn’t Know

🥣 Is Dahi Really Cooling? Ayurveda Says It’s Hot! Here’s the Truth You Didn’t Know


For most of us, curd (dahi) is a go-to summer staple—creamy, tangy, and perfect to cool down after a spicy meal. But according to Ayurvedic wisdom, dahi isn’t cooling at all. In fact, it's considered “ushna”, meaning it generates heat in the body!

That’s right—your beloved bowl of dahi, when not consumed mindfully, can actually disrupt your body’s balance.

🔥 Why Ayurveda Calls Dahi Hot

As per Sneha Loni, Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Consultant, “Curd increases both pitta and kapha doshas.” In simple terms:

  • Kapha imbalance → weight gain, mucus build-up, sluggishness

  • Pitta imbalance → skin issues, premature greying, rashes, acidity

So while curd has nutritional benefits, Ayurveda says how and when you eat it matters more than you think.


🧘‍♀️ 5 Ayurvedic Rules to Eat Dahi the Right Way

1. ❌ Avoid It in Summer

Curd’s heat-producing quality can worsen pitta, especially during already-hot weather. Choose natural coolants like coconut water, mint-infused buttermilk, or rose sherbet instead.

2. ❄️ Never Eat It Straight from the Fridge

Cold curd can weaken your digestive fire (agni). Always allow it to come to room temperature before eating.

3. 🥛 Make It Buttermilk (Chaas) Instead

Ayurveda loves diluted, spiced buttermilk. Add cumin, ginger, and a pinch of rock salt to turn curd into a lighter, probiotic-rich drink that’s easier to digest.

4. 🍓🍗 Don’t Mix It with Fruits or Meat

Combining curd with incompatible foods—especially fruits and non-veg—can result in digestive toxins (ama). This may lead to bloating, skin issues, or long-term gut sensitivity.

5. 🌙 Avoid Curd at Night

Late-night curd can promote congestion, indigestion, and poor-quality sleep. If you crave something soothing, go for warm turmeric milk or herbal teas.

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