YES, yoghurt (dahi/curd) is excellent for children and can be started after 7 months of age! Dahi is one of the healthiest foods for Indian babies and children - it's rich in protein, calcium, and gut-friendly probiotics. Homemade dahi is best, but if choosing store-bought, pick plain, full-fat options without added sugar. Dahi is easier to digest than milk and safe even for most lactose-intolerant children.
Watch: Iron is most important fuel for 🧠 growth. You need to include iron rich food in your babies diet.
Nutritional Benefits:
| Nutrient | Benefit for Child |
|---|---|
| Protein | Growth and muscle development |
| Calcium | Strong bones and teeth |
| Probiotics | Healthy gut, better immunity |
| Vitamin B12 | Brain development |
| Phosphorus | Bone health |
| Riboflavin | Energy metabolism |
Health Benefits:
| Age | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 0-6 months | Breast milk/formula only |
| 7-8 months | Can introduce small amounts (1-2 tbsp) |
| 9-12 months | 1/4 to 1/2 cup daily |
| 1-2 years | 1/2 to 1 cup daily |
| 2+ years | 1-2 cups daily |
Best First Introduction:
Best Choices:
| Type | Good For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Homemade dahi | All ages 7+ months | Best option - no additives |
| Plain Greek yoghurt | 9+ months | High protein, thick |
| Full-fat plain yoghurt | 7+ months | Good option if no homemade |
| Mishti doi (Bengali sweet curd) | 2+ years | Occasional treat only |
Avoid for Babies:
| Type | Why Avoid |
|---|---|
| Flavored yoghurt | Too much sugar |
| Low-fat/non-fat | Kids need fat for brain development |
| Frozen yoghurt | High sugar, like ice cream |
| Sweetened Greek yoghurt | Added sugars |
Plain Dahi with Mashed Banana
Dahi with Mashed Rice
Sweet Lassi (9+ months)
Dahi Rice (Curd Rice)
Raita
Fruit Shrikhand
Dahi Paratha
Smoothie Bowl
Dahi Bhalla
Lassi (Sweet or Salted)
Do:
Don't:
Why Dahi Helps Weight Gain:
High-Calorie Dahi Additions:
Stop and consult pediatrician if:
These suggest milk protein allergy - different from lactose intolerance. Needs evaluation.
Good News: Most lactose-intolerant children can tolerate dahi!
Why Dahi is Different:
If Child is Lactose Intolerant:
Milk Protein Allergy (Different!):
To Make Dahi Part of Daily Diet:
Making Perfect Homemade Dahi:
Choosing Store-Bought:
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| "Dahi causes cold" | No scientific evidence. Room temp dahi is fine |
| "Don't give at night" | Traditional belief. Small amount is okay |
| "Dahi during fever" | Safe to give, provides nutrition |
| "Low-fat is healthier" | Kids need full-fat for brain development |
| "Same as milk" | Dahi is actually easier to digest |
A: 6 months is a bit early. Wait until 7-8 months to introduce dahi. At 6 months, focus on simple first foods like rice cereal, dal water, and mashed fruits/vegetables. Once baby is eating these well, you can introduce small amounts of plain, homemade dahi. Always start with just 1-2 teaspoons.
A: This is a common belief but not scientifically proven! Cold dahi from fridge can be uncomfortable, so always give at room temperature. Dahi actually boosts immunity through probiotics. If baby has active cold, you can skip for comfort, but dahi doesn't cause colds. Many families give dahi daily without issues.
A: Try these alternatives first: mash ripe banana/mango into dahi (natural sweetness), add a tiny bit of jaggery instead of sugar, mix with sweet fruits like chikoo. Avoid developing sugar habit early. If child still refuses, small amount of jaggery is okay. Never use honey before 1 year. Flavored store yoghurt has too much sugar.
A: Both are good! Greek yoghurt has more protein and thicker texture but less calcium. Regular homemade dahi has good probiotics and is more affordable. For Indian babies, starting with familiar homemade dahi is perfectly fine. Greek yoghurt is a good option for variety or when traveling.
A: During active diarrhea, wait 1-2 days as dairy can sometimes worsen it. Once stools are forming, dahi can actually help recovery! The probiotics restore good gut bacteria. Give plain dahi mixed with rice (dahi chawal) - traditional and effective. If diarrhea continues more than 2-3 days, see your doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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