Dahi has been advocated for by Indian mothers and grandmothers for decades and centuries for its nutrition and health benefits. From feeding it with some sugar superstitiously before any special task or exam to having it with lunch during summer, dahi is a constant part of the Indian kid’s diet. However, in recent years, Greek yogurt has enjoyed quite a popularity boost among fitness enthusiasts for being low in calories and high in proteins. But are they the same? Dahi and Greek Yogurt have been constantly confused and misnamed for each other. But the difference between them is quite simple. Greek yogurt is made from dahi by straining out the extra whey and fluids, which makes the yogurt thicker, creamier, and tangier than regular dahi or yogurt. But the differences only begin with that. With so many different yogurt varieties out there, with varying fat, sugar, and fruit content, which one to choose for your kids? And, more importantly, dahi or Greek yogurt, which is better for your child’s diet? The answer lies in this quick guide.
Both Greek yogurt and dahi have their respective benefits and cater to different goals in people. While Greek yogurt is higher in protein and healthy fats, dahi has more calcium, potassium, and natural sugars in it. Greek yogurt has an additional benefit compared to dahi. It can be consumed by lactose-intolerant kids as well, as the lactose in it has been converted into lactic acid and can thus be easily digested. However, Greek yogurt is also more expensive than dahi, which can be easily prepared at home, using traditional procedures. Both Greek yogurt and dahi contain healthy bacteria that promote digestion in kids and are present in those dairy products for fermentation purposes. However, its levels are higher in Greek yogurt, which makes it a better friend for your kid’s digestive system. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin B12, iodine, phosphorus, and protein, while dahi offers rich levels of calcium, potassium, iron, and vitamin B6, among others. Both can be used in fun and delicious snacks and dishes to nourish kids.
Both Greek yogurt and dahi are wonderful for your kid’s health. They not only keep your kid’s body cool, but lessen digestive issues, strengthen bones and muscles, and prevent inflammation and infections. But they cater to different goals, as Greek yogurt is more suitable for kids with an active or busy lifestyle due to its low calories and rich protein content. While dahi is ideal for kids with a sedentary lifestyle for nourishing benefits. Overall, both are great for your kid’s health in moderate quantities of one to two cups per day.
This North Indian staple meal is a delicious way of including dahi in your kid’s diet. Simply add dahi, curry leaves, and hing while finishing off the rajma curry. Or make a separate dahi preparation and mix it in with the rajma curry while heating if you like meal prepping. Remember to serve hot and well-mixed with steamed rice for a nourishing, nutrient-packed meal.
Overnight oats are a wonderful way of incorporating whole grains and yogurt into your kid’s snack time or breakfast. Simply mix rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, nut butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, nuts, seeds, and fresh, frozen fruits, layer accordingly, and store in jars for at least four hours, preferably overnight. The result is a delicious, creamy, frozen treat that is nutritious and refreshing for kids.
Fruit and yogurt bites are a fantastic way of incorporating antioxidants, protein, and calcium into your kid’s diet. Simply fill a parchment paper-laden pan with Greek yogurt, and mix in frozen fruits of choice, like sliced mangoes, de-seeded litchis, or orange slices, along with some homemade granola. Make sure the mixture is spread evenly, before storing in the freezer for about 4 hours, till the yogurt is firm. Cut into bite-sized pieces and enjoy them cold.
The staple summer beverage, lassi, is an incredibly refreshing drink made from dahi. For this, all you need is a good blender, dahi, a little heavy cream, a sweetener of choice, and ice cubes. Blend till smooth and refrigerate immediately. Serve chilled and creamy to your kids and watch their love for dahi soar this summer.
Greek yogurt and dahi both are great for your kids, depending on their lifestyle and dietary requirements. If your kid is an active and sporty one, try Greek yogurts for a protein boost, while if your goal is strong and healthy bones and immunity, then dahi is the way to go. Include both into their diet in moderation and watch them thrive in life.