Health Benefits of Popsicles
Ruby Rockets may be the healthiest low-sugar popsicle brand out there, since they’re all made from whole foods with no added sugar. While many Popsicles are low in calories, they can’t be considered a nutritious snack. The average Popsicle contains between 30 and 50 calories, but doesn’t contain vitamins and minerals, which decreases its nutritional value.
Fruit should be the first ingredient in healthy fruit popsicles. Real, whole fruit contains fiber. The trick is preparing them yourself since many store-bought popsicles contain excess sugar, food dyes, and other unimpressive ingredients.
The healthiest popsicles have:
- Real fruit as the first ingredient
- Minimal added sugar
- No gums or thickeners
- No artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or colors
Popsicles that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely, as long as they have been stored properly and the package is not damaged. However, popsicles that have been stored too long will typically develop ice crystals on the surface; popsicles that develop an off odor or flavor should be discarded.
The good news is that options for health-friendly popsicles at the grocery store are steadily on the rise. Strawberries are the second ingredient listed in this pick that contains 70 calories, 17 grams of added sugar, and no fat. The Rock-It Red frozen pop has just 4 grams of sugar, thanks to strawberries, lemons, carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets.
Fruit popsicles can be a healthy, refreshing snack, or they can be a vehicle for too much sugar and other junky ingredients.
What Makes a Popsicle Healthy?
What is a healthy popsicle to eat?
The best popsicles have real fruit as the first ingredient and minimal added sugar. Fiber indicates whole fruit content. Recommendation: Only buy popsicles where fruit is the first ingredient.
Adding yogurt and bananas creates a smooth texture. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweet flavor. SpongeBob popsicles have a long ingredient list with multiple sugars and artificial ingredients. They also contain gumballs, a choking hazard for kids under 3.
Comparing Popsicles to Ice Cream
Popsicles tend to be lower in fat than ice cream.
On average, popsicles contain about 40 calories and 7 grams of sugar each. That is almost half the sugar content of ice cream. You can eat more than one popsicle without risking a sugar crash.
Aside from water, popsicles contain electrolytes from fruit that keep you hydrated. Dairy-free or vegan popsicle recipes make a nutritious breakfast or snack. You can create popsicles with your kid’s favorite fruit combinations!