BARCELONA – When summer heat hits, desserts that cool you down are a must, and ice cream tops the list. Despite its reputation for high sugar and fat content, experts reveal that ice cream may offer some surprising health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits of Ice Cream
According to dietitian Shelley Balls, a serving of two-thirds of a cup of dairy ice cream provides about 12% of the daily recommended amount of calcium. “Calcium is typically underconsumed in the American diet, so it’s beneficial that a sweet treat like ice cream can contribute to your nutritional intake,” Balls told Yahoo Life.
Moreover, Balls points out that ice cream can also provide approximately six grams of protein per serving, comparable to the protein content of a hardboiled egg or an ounce of almonds.
Dietitian Stephanie Van’t Zelfden adds that ice cream can be a good dessert option for individuals with diabetes or blood sugar concerns due to its fat and protein content. “Combining fat and protein with sugar reduces blood sugar spikes that might occur with lower-fat desserts like sorbet,” Zelfden explains.
Making Ice Cream More Nutritious
Zelfden advises that it’s not necessary to “max out the nutrition of every food.” She emphasizes the importance of enjoying ice cream in moderation rather than compromising taste for a healthier version. “The ‘healthiest’ ice cream is the one that fills your heart and your stomach,” she says.
However, for those interested in enhancing the nutritional profile of ice cream, homemade versions offer control over ingredients. Using tools like traditional ice cream makers or the Ninja Creami, you can customize your ice cream with less sugar and healthier milk options. Adding fruits, nuts, and peanut butter can also make your ice cream more nutrient-dense, notes Balls.
Enhancing Ice Cream to Make It More Filling
Dietitian Kylie Bensley, founder of Sulinu, highlights that ice cream’s fat content naturally makes it filling. To increase its nutritional value, you can add toppings that boost fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Almonds, strawberries, bananas, and even frozen berries are excellent additions.
For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding chia seeds, hemp seeds, or oats to your ice cream, which can enhance both flavor and fiber content.
Concerns About Soft Serve Machines
Stories about moldy or improperly cleaned soft serve machines can be off-putting. Food scientist Bryan Quoc Le assures that most soft serve machines have acceptable microbiological safety profiles. A study found that 74% of soft serve machines in retail locations delivered safe ice cream, while the remaining 26% had higher bacteria levels that could cause minor stomach issues but are unlikely to lead to severe health problems.
For those who prefer to avoid potential risks, making soft serve at home is a viable option. No-churn ice cream recipes or at-home ice cream makers can produce soft serve-like consistency, ensuring both safety and satisfaction.
In conclusion, ice cream can be a delightful and surprisingly nutritious treat when enjoyed in moderation and customized to your preferences. Whether you savor it plain or enhance it with healthy toppings, ice cream remains a beloved summer staple with unexpected benefits.
