Curd is obtained by coagulating milk ina sequential process called curdling.It can be final diary product or thirds first stage in cheesemaking . The coagulation can be caused by adding rennet, a culture or any ediable acidic subsatance such as lemon juice or vinegar, then allowing it to coagulate. The increased acidity causes the milk proteins (casein) to tangle into solid masses, or curds. Milk that has been left to sour (raw milk alone or pasteurized milk with added lactic acid bacteria) will also naturally produce curds, and sour milk cheeses are produced this way. Producing cheese curds is one of the first steps in cheesemaking; the curds are pressed and drained to varying amounts for different styles of cheese and different secondary agents (molds for blue cheeses, etc.) are introduced before the desired aging finishes the cheese. The remaining liquid, which contains only whey proteins is the whey . In cow’s milk, 90 percent of the proteins are caseins. Curds can be used in baking or may be consumed as a snack.

Keywords:- Curd, Health and beauty benefits of curd, Side effects of curd.

Health and beauty benefits of curd

1. Removes dandruff:- While curd can be incorporated into a balanced diet to get the nutrients you need for healthy hair, some people also apply curd directly to the scalp. This is done to treat scalp conditions like dandruff more directly, as well as to help soften and strengthen the cuticle.

2. Remmoves dark spots :- Yoghurt is a natural skin brightening agent that helps to fade dark spots by exfoliating the skin. It is rich in lactic acid that improves discolouration and age spots.

3. For health and radiant skin :- Curd has high amounts of Vitamin D, protein and probiotics. These compounds end up supplying the skin with all the essential nutrients it needs. The lactic acid and alpha hydroxy present in curd effectively clear out dead skin cells. The calcium present in the curd makes sure your skin is not dull and dehydrated.

4. Prevent premature wrinkles:- The lactic acid in curd makes it the best anti-ageing ingredient to be included in your skincare regime. It helps prevent wrinkles and the appearance of fine lines. Also, it tightens your pores and makes your skin radiant

5. For stronger bones and teeth :- Rich in phosphorous and calcium, curd makes your teeth and bones stronger. It helps in prevention of arthritis and contributes towards healthier teeth and bones. Try to eat curd with every meal to have stronger bones and teeth.

6. Helps to lose weight:- Curd is an excellent fat burner. Curd contains high amounts of calcium which helps in keeping the BMI levels in check. Probiotics present in curd keeps the digestive system in check and improves metabolism, thus facilitating the weight loss process.

7. Improves immunity:-Curd is a natural probiotic, the intake of which can be beneficial for the immune system. Probiotics provide good bacteria to gut, thus improving gut health. A healthy gut can give you a stronger immunity as 70% of immunity is handled by your gut.

8. Healthy digestion:- Curd acts as a great probiotic. The good bacteria present in curd helps to clear out the digestive system. It improves our gut activity and is great for treating an upset stomach.

Side effects of curd

Regular consumption of curd leads to weight gain problems. As curd has the chemical compound galactose, it increases the risk of ovarian cancer. People who have arthritis problems should avoid curd as it causes joint pain. It reduces the level of iron and zinc that a person gets from the food.