Can yogurt and tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) be eaten together?
Jun 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, yogurt and tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) can be consumed together, but moderation is advised. However, one should control the quantity during consumption, as tangyuan, made from glutinous rice flour, can be difficult to digest and excessive intake may burden the gastrointestinal tract. It is recommended to drink yogurt about half an hour after a meal, when stomach acid has been diluted by food, creating a more favorable environment for probiotic survival. Consuming yogurt on an empty stomach may expose the probiotics to a high-acid environment, potentially compromising their viability.
Generally speaking, yogurt and sweet rice dumplings (tangyuan) can be consumed together, but moderation is important. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Sweet rice dumplings are primarily made from glutinous rice flour, with fillings commonly consisting of sesame seeds, peanuts, or red bean paste, providing carbohydrates and energy. Yogurt, on the other hand, is rich in high-quality protein, probiotics, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. The protein in yogurt complements the carbohydrates in sweet rice dumplings, nutritionally enhancing the meal. Probiotics aid in regulating intestinal flora and promoting digestion and absorption of ingredients like glutinous rice flour. Additionally, the sweet and sour taste of yogurt can neutralize the sweetness and greasiness of sweet rice dumplings, reducing the heavy feeling associated with glutinous rice dishes, making it especially suitable to pair after meals.
However, attention should be paid to portion control when consuming these foods. Sweet rice dumplings are made from glutinous rice flour, which is not easily digested, so excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent increasing the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. It is recommended to consume yogurt about half an hour after a meal when stomach acid has been diluted by food, creating a more favorable environment for probiotic survival. Consuming yogurt on an empty stomach may result in the destruction of probiotic activity due to high acidity in the stomach. Individuals with weak gastrointestinal function or those suffering from gastric ulcers should ensure sweet rice dumplings are thoroughly cooked and softened, avoiding cold consumption. Yogurt can also be warmed to room temperature before consumption to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Furthermore, diabetic patients should pay attention to the sugar content in the fillings of sweet rice dumplings, opting for low-sugar or filling-free varieties, and strictly controlling the sugar content of yogurt consumed, while closely monitoring blood sugar levels afterward.
