By Mira Khattar
Special to The Times Kuwait
Have you ever heard someone say you should not mix fish with dairy, like yogurt or milk? Some people believe this combination can cause poisoning, skin issues, or even allergies. But is there really any truth to it?
Across different cultures, there is a long-standing belief that seafood and dairy do not go well together, they can upset digestion or even be dangerous.
But from a scientific and nutrition perspective, there is no evidence to show that eating fish with yogurt, milk, or cheese is toxic. If it were truly harmful, we would see major health consequences in countries where seafood and dairy are commonly combined in traditional dishes.
Eating fish with dairy does not cause food poisoning. The only real risk comes from food safety issues, like if the fish is not fresh, undercooked, or stored improperly.
Fish and dairy allergies are separate matters. If someone reacts to the combination, it is likely because they already have a sensitivity to one of them, not because of combining the two.
Some people might feel bloated, gassy, or uncomfortable after eating heavy protein-rich meals or when combining too many rich foods. This is more about individual tolerance than a harmful interaction.
The truth is, our digestive system is perfectly capable of handling mixed meals. The stomach produces enzymes and acids that break down different nutrients at the same time (proteins, fats, and carbs all together). There is no evidence that mixing fish and yogurt creates a harmful chemical reaction inside the body.
My Practical Nutrition Tips:
- Enjoy fish with vegetables, grains, or salads for a balanced, light meal.
- Yogurt pairs beautifully with fruits, nuts, or as a sauce along grilled fish.
- If you notice bloating or discomfort, it may be due to portion size, lactose intolerance, or sensitivity to fatty meals, not the fish plus dairy combo itself.
Last but not least, mixing seafood and dairy is safe and common in many cuisines. The belief that it causes poisoning or health problems is a myth. What matters most is food safety, freshness and personal tolerance.
If your body feels fine when eating fish with yogurt, there is no reason to avoid it.
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