National Ice Cream Day is July 17 and though one of summer’s favorite snacks can be heavy on the sugar, fat and calories it can also be a nutritious way to consume healthy vitamins and minerals.
If you look in the freezer section in your local grocery store you might be overwhelmed by the plethora of ice cream varieties that tout various health benefits for all dietary needs.
If you’re Gluten-Free…
Try Good Karma Organic Rice Divine Chocolate Chip. Made with organic ingredients and rice milk, Good Karma offers nearly a dozen flavors of non-dairy dessert based on rice. Keep it simple with Chocolate Chip but if you like more creative flavors, opt for Key Lime Pie, Coconut Mango or Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge.
If you like Sorbet…
Try Ciao Bella Lemon Zest Sorbet. Tart and refreshing with only 130-calories per serving, this is a guilt-free treat perfect for an afternoon snack. We like the mango and blood orange flavors too, but lemon is reminiscent of lemonade at the beach on a hot summer day.
If you are on a Low-Calorie Diet…
Try Artic Zero Mint Chocolate Cookie. With 150-calories in the entire pint, this protein shake in ice cream form is forgiving if you overindulge. Though it isn’t quite as rich and creamy as traditional ice cream, it’s a low-glycemic option that has 14 grams of whey protein and inventive flavors that change seasonally.
If you are Dairy-Free…
Try SO Delicious Purely Decadent Turtle Trails. Made with coconut milk, this dairy-free dessert is as rich and creamy as your favorite ice cream flavor. It has 160 calories and 8 grams of fat so it isn’t the best option if you’re trying to lose weight, but it also has 5 grams of fiber and is made with organic ingredients.
If you need Probiotics…
Try Lifeway Frozen Kefir Pomegranate. Packed with 10 probiotics to assist with immunity and digestion this is a great way to follow-up a meal on a summer evening. Just like ice cream, frozen kefir is delicious on its own or topped with your favorite fresh fruit, like strawberries or blueberries.
If you are a Chocolate Lover on a Diet…
Try Ben & Jerry’s Chocolate Fudge Brownie Frozen Yogurt. With only 2.5 grams of fat in a half-cup serving, you’ll never miss the great taste of real ice cream. This flavor is even complete with chunks of fudge brownies for the choco-holic in you.
If you need Portion Control:
Try Organic SO Delicious Mini Fudge Pops. Made with coconut milk, these small but flavorful fudge pops clock in under 100 calories and are the perfect way to quell a summer sweet tooth.
If you’re on a Low-Carb Diet:
Try Breyer’s CarbSmart Vanilla. With only 4 grams of net carbs, you can indulge in ice cream even if you’re watching your carbohydrate intake. Sweetened with Splenda, you might notice a vague aftertaste if you avoid artificial sugar, but if you’re watching your waistline this summer, it might be worthwhile.
If you are trying to eat more Calcium:
Try Stonyfield Gotta Have It Vanilla Frozen Yogurt. With 15% of your recommended calcium intake, Stonyfield offers the perfect balance of sweetness and a creamy texture that you don’t have to feel guilty about.
If you want to Feel Like a Kid Again:
Try Gaga Rainbow. There’s nothing more refreshing than a bright, multicolor sherbert made with real fruit puree. Instead of opting for the artificially colored and flavored version, pick up a pint at the grocery store next time you need a sweet treat.