Does yogurt and curd really cause cold? Or the naughty viruses that disguise themselves?
What makes people think that such an important probiotic superfood loaded with tiny helping hands called good bacteria (probiotic), could cause cold?
This product is often misunderstood, blamed and eradicated from the diet by a sniff or cough!! We upgrade ourselves from the olden thoughts when it comes to the latest fashion in town, but when it comes to some irrational myths regarding eating, we prefer following the footsteps blindly!!
Cold is caused most of the time by rhinoviruses that squeeze into the cells of the nasal passage, causing a cherry top at the nose.
Blocked nose and sore throat that we experience during cold are the body’s inflammatory response towards the virus; during this the friendly bacteria in yogurt and curd come to our rescue and strengthen our immune system. An aversion regarding the consumption of yogurt and curd due to its ability to produce mucus is commonly seen in the general public, because of the myth that mucus is bad!! Mucus plays a vital role in the body like trapping troublemakers called germs. They also contain enzymes and antibodies that help one get rid of all particles that could lead to infections and also lubricates the cilia which in turn helps to remove particles that could cause infection.
Tip 1: Consume yogurt or curd at room temperature
On the other hand, when a cold food product tingles down the esophagus it leads to the counteraction with warm vaporized fluid in our lungs which leads to the formation of phlegm. This formation of phlegm leads to common cold. This mechanism doesn’t only stand true for yogurt or curd of low temperature, but for any drink or food product which is of a low temperature. Therefore, bringing the yogurt or curd to room temperature before consuming becomes of uttermost importance.
Tip 2: During severe cold avoid it for few days.
Although during severe cases of cold where there is excessive mucus production than what is actually needed leads to its buildup. In such cases it is advised to avoid yogurt or curd for a short span of time since it would add on to the buildup of mucus.
The above concludes that it is the virus that causes cold and not the consumption of yogurt or curd. Other than its role in preventing respiratory tract infections, yogurt and curd have also traced their way in bone, gut, and immune health. Due to various health benefits atleast one bowl of yogurt or curd should be consumed daily.
It’s the need of the hour that people learn to understand the advances in nutrition made today and upgrade themselves on what should be eaten. It is this lack of awareness today that people fall prey to such myths and are devoid of various health benefits.
Blog by:
Ms. Sidra Patel
Nutritionist & Lifestyle Consultant
Founder: Eating Smart with Sidra Patel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidra-patel-363b9618a/