The Healthiest Form of Ice Cream
"To me, the healthiest ice cream is ice cream that really sticks to the original recipe. That’s usually milk, cream, sugar and some kind of flavoring," she says. But the best way to go is to choose a local ice cream company for your outdoor treats and take-home classics. Local ice cream shops often create their products from locally sourced ingredients. "It encompasses all the things that I love about it, including experience – it’s local, it’s nostalgic, it’s small-backed," she says.
Ice Cream: Nutritional Guidelines
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Low Sugar Content: The World Health Organization suggests that adults consume no more than 6 teaspoons (25 grams) of added sugar per day.
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High Protein: Protein is an essential nutrient that helps repair body tissues and supports immune functions.
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Natural Ingredients: The best ice creams are made from simple, natural ingredients like milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and real fruit.
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Potentially Dairy-Free: If you are lactose intolerant or vegan, look for dairy-free ice cream options made from nut milks, coconut milk, or bananas.
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Enjoyed in Moderation: At the end of the day, ice cream is still considered a treat. Be mindful of portion sizes.
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Nutritional Value: Ice cream also contains niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin. Ice cream is rich with carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Top Picks for Ice Cream
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Best Overall Ice Cream: Halo Top Birthday Cake Light Ice Cream.
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Lowest Sugar Content: Wendy’s Chocolate Frosty.
The Rise of Gelato
Gelato typically offers fewer calories, less sugar and lower fat content per serving than ice cream. It has a higher proportion of milk to cream, creating less fat than traditional ice cream, says a nutritionist. Gelato also has a higher protein content than soft serve and hard ice cream. While still high in sugar and calories, gelato typically comes in a smaller serving size than soft serve and hard ice cream.