The weather is HOT! Yep, it's’ August! And it makes me crave cool foods. My freezer is stocked with differentice cream flavors because it is a staple in my house, especially during the heat of the summer! According to the International Dairy Foods Association, Americans seem to have a love affair with this cool treat as we consume about 22 pounds per capita a year. But, enjoying this yummy treat fills me with guilt. Ice cream is loaded with calories, saturated fat and sugar. And that’s not even with the fudge and candy toppings. Here’s the question- can I satisfy my craving for ice cream without the guilt? The answer is YES. But here are some healthy tips:
Be Choosey- For starters I believe that ice cream is a treat and so I pick and choose where I am to enjoy this treat. In Italy, the gelato is outrageous and really homemade so for sure I am going to have some. When in the middle of dairy country (Wisconsin) I am sure to have a cone. And on a hot summer nite strolling thru town I am going to enjoy my favorite flavor (moose tracks).
Portion Control- When I eat ice cream, I always order a kiddie cup. The “official” serving is just ½ cup which is about the size of a tennis ball. You know the small cups of Haagen-Dazs? Well, that’s a ½ cup. I know it looks small and can you imagine that that is not the size that most of us scoop out!
Limit Toppings- It’s the toppings that add extra calories, fat and sugar to your cone. We all know how tempting the candy and cookie toppings look but do yourself and your waist a favor and skip all together (I mean if you want a piece of candy or a cookie, don’t use the ice cream as a reason to have the candy or cookie!). Add fresh whole fruit if you must!
What about frozen yogurt, sorbet, non-dairy (vegan) frozen ice cream? They might not have dairy and they might be lower in calories but are typically loaded with extra fruit juice or sugar which isn’t so great.
Bottom line- all in moderation! If you love something, have a little to satisfy your desire.
For more information contact me at: rachel@livehealthynyc.com