#asktheexperts my daughter hates curd what should I do

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Accepted Answer

If your daughter dislikes curd, there are several alternative ways to include similar nutrients in her diet without forcing her to eat something she doesn't enjoy. Here are some strategies:

### 1. **Alternative Dairy Products:**
   - **Yogurt:** Try different types of yogurt, such as Greek yogurt, which has a milder taste and different texture.
   - **Cheese:** Offer mild cheese options like cottage cheese or soft cheese spreads that can be a good source of calcium and protein.
   - **Milk:** Ensure she’s getting calcium and protein from milk if she prefers it over curd.

### 2. **Incorporate Dairy into Recipes:**
   - **Smoothies:** Blend yogurt with fruits and a bit of honey or other sweeteners to make a smoothie. Sometimes mixing it with flavors she likes can make it more palatable.
   - **Baked Goods:** Use yogurt in baking recipes like muffins or pancakes. The flavor of the yogurt can be masked by other ingredients.
   - **Sauces and Dressings:** Mix yogurt into sauces or dressings for a creamy texture without the strong taste of curd.

### 3. **Non-Dairy Alternatives:**
   - **Fortified Non-Dairy Milks:** Consider plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk that are fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
   - **Fortified Juices and Cereals:** Use fortified juices or cereals to help meet her nutritional needs.

### 4. **Mix with Foods She Likes:**
   - **Fruit and Curd:** If she likes fruits, try mixing curd with fruits or fruit purees to make it more appealing.
   - **Blended Dishes:** Incorporate curd into dishes she enjoys, such as curries or stews, where the taste can be less noticeable.

### 5. **Encourage Gradual Introduction:**
   - **Small Amounts:** Introduce curd in small amounts and gradually increase it as she becomes accustomed to the taste.
   - **Variety:** Experiment with different flavors and textures, such as flavored yogurts or different types of curd.

### 6. **Focus on Overall Diet:**
   - Ensure she is getting a balanced diet with other sources of calcium, protein, and probiotics. Green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals can help meet these nutritional needs.

### 7. **Be Patient:**
   - Children’s tastes can change over time, so it’s possible that she might develop a liking for curd or similar foods in the future.

If you’re concerned about her nutrition or if she is refusing many foods, it might be helpful to consult with a pediatrician or a nutritionist to ensure she’s getting a balanced diet. They can provide personalized advice and alternatives based on her specific dietary needs and preferences.