How Many Calories in a 6 Table Spoon Curd? A Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

January 6, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, 100 grams of plain, whole milk yogurt contains around 61 calories. Therefore, the exact number for how many calories in a 6 table spoon curd depends heavily on its fat content and whether any sugars or other ingredients have been added during preparation.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for six tablespoons of curd typically ranges from 55 to 60 calories, depending on the milk's fat content. The total can increase significantly with added sweeteners or fruit. Homemade curd offers control over ingredients for more precise calorie management.

Key Points

Estimate Calorie Count: Six tablespoons (approx. 90g) of plain curd contain about 55-60 calories, depending on the fat content of the milk.
Fat Content is Key: Full-fat curd has more calories than low-fat or fat-free varieties, with full-fat plain Greek yogurt being much higher in protein and calories.
Watch Added Sugars: The addition of sugar, jaggery, or fruit can significantly increase the total calorie count of your curd.
Choose Homemade for Control: Making curd at home allows you to precisely control the fat content and avoid added sugars found in many commercial flavored yogurts.
Probiotics for Digestion: Curd is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health and can aid in better digestion and a stronger immune system.
High in Protein: The protein in curd helps increase satiety, making it a helpful food for managing weight.
Rich in Nutrients: Curd is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for strong bones and teeth.

For anyone tracking their diet or simply curious about the nutritional value of their food, a specific number for how many calories in a 6 table spoon curd is a frequent question. The answer is not a single, fixed number but rather a small range influenced by the type of milk used and the preparation method. For a standard six tablespoons, which is roughly 90 grams, the calorie count typically falls between 55 and 60 calories for plain, whole milk curd.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count

Several variables can cause the calorie count to shift. Understanding these is key to making informed dietary choices.

Milk Fat Content

The most significant factor is the fat content of the milk from which the curd is made. Curd can be prepared from full-fat (whole) milk, low-fat milk, or even fat-free milk.

Full-Fat Milk Curd: Naturally has a higher calorie and fat content due to the milk's composition.
Low-Fat Milk Curd: The calorie and fat count is reduced by using low-fat milk, making it a popular choice for weight management.
Skim Milk Curd: Provides the lowest calorie option, almost fat-free, while retaining a high protein and calcium count.

Added Ingredients

While plain curd is a low-calorie food, additions can dramatically increase the energy value. Sweeteners, fruit, and other ingredients should be factored into your daily intake.

Sugar or Jaggery: Many people add sugar or jaggery to enhance the taste, which significantly increases the total carbohydrate and calorie count.
Fruit: Adding fruit, especially dried fruit or fruit purees, introduces additional sugars and calories. The type and quantity of fruit will determine the increase.
Commercial Flavorings: Store-bought flavored yogurts (curd) often have a high amount of added sugars to mask the natural sourness. Always check the nutrition label for these hidden calories.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Curd

Whether your curd is homemade or store-bought also influences its nutritional profile. Homemade curd allows for complete control over ingredients, while commercial versions are standardized but may contain additives.

Homemade Curd: The calorie count is determined entirely by the milk used and any additions. For example, six tablespoons of homemade cow's milk curd can be estimated from a calorie count of 142 per cup (about 128 grams), meaning roughly 110 calories.
Store-Bought Curd: Manufacturers often add thickeners, stabilizers, and sugar, which can change the calorie count. For consistency, commercial products usually have nutritional information readily available on the label.

Nutritional Comparison Table: Curd and Yogurt

To give a clearer picture, here is a comparison of different types of curd and yogurt based on common 6-tablespoon (approx. 90g) servings. Note that these are approximations and can vary by brand and preparation.


Type of Curd/Yogurt	Approx. Calories (6 tbsp / 90g)	Key Nutritional Notes
Plain Full-Fat Curd/Yogurt	~55-60 kcal	Higher in fat, providing a richer, creamier texture.
Plain Low-Fat Curd/Yogurt	~50-55 kcal	Lower in fat, good for weight management. Retains high protein content.
Greek Yogurt (Plain Full-Fat)	~120-130 kcal	Strained, resulting in a much higher protein concentration and thicker texture. Significantly more calorie-dense.
Vanilla Flavored Yogurt (Low-Fat)	~70-80 kcal	Contains added sugars and flavorings, increasing calorie count beyond plain low-fat options.

Health Benefits of Incorporating Curd into Your Diet

Beyond its calorie count, curd is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Improved Digestion: Curd contains beneficial probiotics, which are live bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, easing digestion and preventing issues like bloating.
Boosts Immunity: The probiotics and other essential nutrients in curd help strengthen the immune system by promoting good gut health.
Supports Weight Management: The high protein content in curd provides a feeling of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss efforts.
Strengthens Bones: Curd is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, crucial minerals for maintaining strong and healthy bones and teeth.
Promotes Heart Health: Regular consumption of low-fat curd has been linked to a reduced risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

Conclusion

While a definitive answer for how many calories in a 6 table spoon curd requires knowing the specific type, a safe estimate for plain curd is between 55 and 60 calories. The fat content of the milk is the primary determinant, with added sugars from fruit or flavorings increasing the total. For those aiming for a lower-calorie option, using low-fat milk is an effective strategy. Incorporating curd into your diet offers substantial health benefits, including improved digestion, boosted immunity, and support for weight and heart health. Whether homemade or store-bought, curd is a nutritious and versatile food. For detailed nutritional guidelines, always consult reputable health resources, such as those found on the Healthline website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Both can be beneficial for weight loss. Greek yogurt is higher in protein, which increases satiety and can help reduce overall calorie intake. Traditional curd offers good probiotics for gut health, which aids metabolism and digestion. The best choice depends on your preference and dietary needs.

Adding fruit introduces natural sugars and calories, while adding table sugar or jaggery adds significant empty calories. For example, flavored yogurts can have a much higher calorie count than plain versions. Always account for any additions when counting calories.

Many people with lactose intolerance find curd easier to digest than milk. The fermentation process breaks down some of the lactose. Greek yogurt, which is strained, has even less lactose. However, individual tolerance varies.

While homemade and store-bought curd can have similar calorie counts, homemade versions allow for better control over ingredients, avoiding potential additives, stabilizers, or high amounts of added sugars found in some commercial products. The nutritional content depends on the type of milk used.

In many regions, the terms are used interchangeably. However, traditionally, curd (dahi) is made by fermenting milk with a natural starter (old curd or an acidic substance like lemon juice). Yogurt is made with specific bacterial strains under more controlled conditions. Greek yogurt is a strained version, making it thicker and higher in protein.

The probiotics in curd play a crucial role in boosting your immune system by maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome helps the body fight off harmful pathogens and reduces the risk of infection.

There is a slight but noticeable difference. Full-fat curd has more calories due to its higher fat content, while low-fat curd has fewer. For example, 6 tablespoons of low-fat curd have around 50-55 kcal, whereas full-fat is closer to 55-60 kcal.