Milk vs Curd: Which is better for body milk or curd? A detailed guide

November 3, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a 2024 article from the Times of India, while milk has higher calcium for bone health, curd is superior for digestive wellness due to its rich probiotic content. The question of which is better for body milk or curd truly depends on your individual health needs and dietary priorities, as both offer unique and valuable nutritional benefits.

Quick Summary

This guide compares milk and curd, detailing their nutritional profiles and specific health benefits. It examines which dairy product is more beneficial for different purposes, including digestive health, bone strength, and weight management. The comparison helps readers make an informed choice based on their health goals.

Key Points

Curd is better for digestion: Due to the fermentation process, curd contains probiotics and has less lactose, making it easier on the stomach for many.
Milk offers higher calcium: Per serving, milk provides a higher concentration of calcium, which is crucial for bone health.
Curd supports weight management: The high protein and probiotics in plain, unsweetened curd can aid in weight loss by increasing satiety and regulating metabolism.
The ideal choice is personal: The best dairy option depends on individual factors like lactose tolerance, digestive health, and specific nutritional goals.
Ayurveda recommends curd during the day: Ancient Indian medicine advises against eating curd at night, as it is considered heavy and can increase mucus production.
Both can be part of a healthy diet: Including both milk and curd at different times can provide a wider spectrum of nutrients for holistic well-being.

Understanding the Nutritional Profiles of Milk and Curd

Milk and curd (yogurt) are both dairy products with distinct nutritional profiles due to processing. Curd is made by fermenting milk, which alters its properties and how the body utilizes its nutrients. Both are good sources of protein and calcium, but their benefits vary, making the choice dependent on individual health objectives.

Milk: The Bone-Building Powerhouse

Milk is an unfermented liquid recognized for supporting bone health. It's a source of essential nutrients for growth and repair. Key aspects include higher calcium content compared to curd, beneficial for bone density, and a balanced mix of casein and whey proteins for muscle repair. Many milk types are fortified with Vitamin D, aiding calcium absorption. However, the lactose in milk can cause digestive issues for some individuals.

Curd: The Gut-Friendly Probiotic Champion

Curd is a fermented dairy product containing live bacterial cultures like Lactobacillus. These probiotics support digestion, balance gut flora, and strengthen the immune system. Curd is often easier to digest for those with lactose intolerance as fermentation breaks down much of the lactose. Plain, unsweetened curd can also aid weight management due to its protein content promoting satiety and its potential lower calorie count. Additionally, its probiotic content is linked to enhanced immunity.

Milk vs Curd: A Comparative Table


Feature	Milk	Curd	Which is Better?	Reason
Digestion	Can cause issues for lactose-intolerant individuals.	Easier to digest due to lower lactose content.	Curd	Fermentation pre-digests lactose, making it gentler on the stomach.
Probiotics	Does not contain live, active probiotic cultures.	A rich source of beneficial bacteria.	Curd	The presence of probiotics directly supports gut health and immunity.
Calcium Content	Higher concentration per serving.	Lower concentration compared to milk.	Milk	Provides more bone-strengthening calcium.
Weight Loss	High protein content promotes satiety.	High protein content and lower calories (depending on type) aid weight management.	Curd	Its gut-regulating probiotics and higher satiety factor often give it an edge.
Muscle Repair	Balanced source of casein and whey protein.	Higher protein concentration in some preparations; supports muscle recovery.	Milk/Curd	Both are excellent; depends on the specific protein needs.
Ayurvedic View	Considered a warming, nutritive tonic.	Considered heavy, can increase Kapha and Pitta; best eaten during the day.	Depends	Varies by individual dosha and time of consumption.

Making the Best Choice for Your Health Goals

The choice between milk and curd depends on individual health goals as both offer distinct benefits. Choose milk for maximum calcium intake for bone strength and as a complete protein source for muscle repair. Opt for curd to improve digestive health and boost immunity due to its probiotics, and for weight loss support with its protein content and potentially lower calories. Incorporating both into your diet, perhaps at different times, can also be a beneficial approach. Listening to your body's needs and digestive comfort is key.

Conclusion

The decision of which is better for body milk or curd is not universal but depends on individual needs. Milk provides concentrated calcium for bones and complete proteins, while curd excels in promoting digestive health and immunity through probiotics and is often easier to digest. The best choice aligns with your specific health goals and tolerance. A balanced approach including both can offer comprehensive nutritional benefits.

For further guidance on dietary choices, consulting a nutritionist or reviewing reputable health resources is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curd is generally better for digestion because its fermentation process breaks down lactose, and it contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut flora.

Milk is a better source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. While curd also contains calcium, milk typically has a higher concentration per serving.

Many people with lactose intolerance can tolerate curd better than milk because the fermentation process converts much of the lactose into lactic acid, reducing its digestive impact.

Yes, plain, unsweetened curd can be beneficial for weight loss. Its high protein content promotes satiety, and its probiotics can help regulate metabolism.

Ayurveda suggests that curd is heavy and can increase Kapha and Pitta doshas, advising against consuming it at night. Milk is generally considered a more nourishing and lighter option.

Curd often has a higher concentration of protein per gram than milk, especially when made from full-fat milk, because it is a more condensed product.

Both are nutritious during pregnancy. Curd can be beneficial for its probiotics and easier digestibility, while milk provides high calcium. A balanced intake of both, based on a doctor's recommendation, is ideal.

According to Ayurveda and some nutritionists, it's best to consume curd during the day, particularly with meals like lunch, to aid digestion. Avoid it at night, especially if you have a tendency for mucus buildup.