Shrikhand Mango

Shrikhand contains energy, protein, carbohydrates, fats, several B complex vitamins especially B2 and B1 in high amounts. Some Shrikhand may have high folate content depending on the type of lactic acid bacteria like S.thermophilus and Bifidobacteria.

Among the fat soluble vitamins, Vitamin A and E are present in Shrikhand.

The energy content of Shrikhand is dependent on whether whole milk, low fat milk or skimmed milk has been used in the preparation of Shrikhand.

The protein in Shrikhand is of high quality and in easily digestible form. Shrikhand has higher amounts of the amino acids proline and glycine compared to milk and these benefit by increasing the absorption of calcium and boosting immunity levels.

Though the carbohydrates in Shrikhand of in the form of lactose, fermentation converts about 20-30% of it into glucose and galactose. This makes Shrikhand easier to digest and is beneficial for those who have difficulty in digesting milk.

The fat content of Shrikhand varies from 3% for whole fat milk to under 0.3% for non fat milk. The fermentation process breaks down some fats thus increasing the digestibility and absorbability of Shrikhand. Shrikhand also contains higher levels of CLA, a natural fat that boosts immunity and protects against cancer.

As far as the minerals are concerned, Shrikhand is a rich source of calcium that is in a bio available form. Also, the acidity of the Shrikhand increases the absorption of minerals like calcium, phosphorus and magnesium while it also reduces the effect of phytic acid which is known to reduce the absorption of minerals especially calcium.

Shrikhand also contains good amounts of minerals phosphorus and iodine. A 150 gm serving of whole milk plain Shrikhand provides 68% of the daily adult requirement of iodine while the same amount of low fat plain Shrikhand provides 36% of an adult’s daily requirement.

These figures for a child of 6 years are 158% and 85% respectively for iodine. Shrikhand can thus be a valuable source of iodine.

Apart from this Shrikhand also contains magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium and iron.