Indulging in a scoop of ice cream doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth – it might also surprise you with its hidden health benefits. Let’s dive into the surprising insights shared by experts on why this beloved frozen treat can be a delicious addition to a well-balanced diet.
Surprising Nutritional Perks of Ice Cream
When the scorching sun is shining down, nothing hits the spot quite like a scoop of ice cream. This creamy, sweet treat is often criticized for its high sugar and fat content, but it turns out that ice cream has some under-appreciated nutritional benefits. According to dietitian Shelley Balls, a typical two-thirds cup serving of dairy ice cream provides about 12% of the daily recommended amount of calcium. Given that calcium is often underconsumed, this is excellent news for those wanting to enjoy an indulgent yet beneficial treat.
Additionally, depending on the brand, ice cream can offer around six grams of protein per serving. That’s the same amount of protein you’d find in a hardboiled egg or a small handful of almonds. Stephanie Van’t Zelfden, another dietitian, even recommends ice cream for those with diabetes or blood sugar concerns due to its combination of fat and protein, which helps to reduce blood sugar spikes.
Making Ice Cream More Nutritious
Let’s face it; no one eats ice cream solely for its nutritional value. Sometimes, the best ice cream is simply the one that makes you happiest. However, if you want to amp up your ice cream’s nutritional profile, homemade options can be particularly beneficial. Using tools like traditional bowl ice cream makers or advanced gadgets like the Ninja Creami, you can control the amount of sugar and the types of base ingredients.
Add-ins like fruits, nuts, or even peanut butter can make your homemade ice cream unique and more nutrient-dense. Think about adding almonds, strawberries, or even a handful of frozen berries to make your ice cream more filling and delicious.
Boosting the Filling Factor
Ice cream is naturally filling due to its fat content. However, you can experiment with various toppings to increase the levels of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Try these options to elevate the nutrition and satisfaction of your ice cream:
- Add chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and protein
- Mix in chopped fruits like bananas or strawberries
- Incorporate a tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp seeds for fiber and a unique flavor
- Blend into a milkshake with a handful of frozen berries
Staying Safe with Soft Serve Machines
Soft serve ice cream is a favorite for many, but concerns about the cleanliness of soft serve machines can be off-putting. According to food scientist Bryan Quoc Le, while most soft serve machines have acceptable microbiological safety profiles, about 26% of machines can have high levels of bacteria, potentially causing upset stomachs or minor illnesses.
If you prefer to avoid these risks, you can enjoy soft serve consistency at home using no-churn ice cream recipes or investing in an at-home ice cream maker. This way, you can savor your favorite texture without worrying about cleanliness issues.
Enjoying Ice Cream in Moderation
Ultimately, it’s all about balance. You don’t have to turn your favorite treat into a nutritional powerhouse to reap some benefits. Enjoying your beloved sundae on a special day while keeping portions reasonable can make a world of difference. So go ahead, relish that scoop of ice cream; it’s good for the soul and, as we’ve discovered, not too bad for the body either.