For many, ice cream is a beloved treat, but finding an option that aligns with health and dietary goals can be challenging. A premium pint can easily contain half a day's worth of saturated fat and sugar in a single serving. However, with a better understanding of what to look for and a few smart strategies, it's possible to find a satisfying and more nutritious frozen dessert.
Decoding the Nutrition Label
Choosing a healthier ice cream starts with a critical look at the packaging. Don't be fooled by labels that simply say "low-fat" or "sugar-free," as these terms don't tell the whole story.
What to Scrutinize
- Saturated Fat: Aim for options with no more than 4 grams of saturated fat per serving. Low-fat or reduced-fat varieties often have significantly less saturated fat than premium brands.
- Added Sugar: This is a key metric. A good guideline is to find a product with less than 16 grams of added sugar per serving. Many low-sugar brands use alternative sweeteners to achieve this.
- Calories: While calories aren't everything, they are important for weight management. Healthier options typically have fewer than 200 calories per serving.
- Ingredients: Shorter, simpler ingredient lists are usually better. Be mindful of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Also, if you have a sensitive stomach, be aware that many low-calorie options use sugar alcohols (like erythritol) and processed fibers, which can cause digestive issues.
Exploring the Healthier Ice Cream Landscape
The market for frozen desserts is more diverse than ever, with options for nearly every dietary need. Here's a look at some of the most popular choices:
Low-Calorie & High-Protein Brands
- Halo Top: A pioneer in the low-calorie category, Halo Top offers pints with a lower calorie count and higher protein than traditional ice cream. It uses a mix of sugar and alternative sweeteners like erythritol. While praised for its taste, some find its texture to be less creamy than regular ice cream.
- Enlightened: Similar to Halo Top, Enlightened provides low-calorie, high-protein pints and bars. It offers a creamy texture and is free of artificial sweeteners in some lines, though it does use sugar alcohols.
- Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars: For portion-controlled indulgence, Yasso offers bars made from Greek yogurt, making them lower in fat and higher in protein compared to standard ice cream bars.
Keto & Low-Carb Options
- Rebel Ice Cream: Made for keto dieters, Rebel uses cream for richness and relies on monk fruit and erythritol for sweetness, resulting in zero grams of sugar. It is higher in fat than most low-cal options but fits a low-carb diet.
- Halo Top Keto Series: An extension of the main brand, these pints cater specifically to the keto market with higher fat and lower net carbs.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Varieties
- Cado: Uniquely made with avocado, Cado offers a creamy texture with healthy monounsaturated fats instead of saturated-fat-rich coconut oil. They are dairy-free, vegan, and organic.
- NadaMoo!: A popular coconut milk-based vegan dessert line, with organic ingredients. While dairy-free, watch the saturated fat levels, as coconut milk can be high in this.
- So Delicious: This brand offers a range of dairy-free options made from oat, almond, soy, and cashew milk bases. Soymilk-based options can be a very low-saturated-fat choice.
Comparison of Popular Healthier Ice Creams
| Brand | Base | Calories (per 2/3 cup) | Sat Fat (g) (per 2/3 cup) | Added Sugar (g) (per 2/3 cup) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halo Top | Skim Milk/Cream | ~100 | ~1.5 | ~5 |
| Enlightened | Skim Milk/Cream | ~120 | ~3.5 | ~7 |
| Yasso Greek Yogurt | Greek Yogurt | ~80 (per bar) | ~0 (per bar) | ~12 (per bar) |
| Rebel | Cream | ~190 | ~19 | ~0 |
| Cado | Avocado | ~220 | ~2 | ~14 |
| Breyers Slow Churned | Milk/Cream | ~150 | ~2.5 | ~13 |
Healthier Alternatives and Mindful Enjoyment
If store-bought options aren’t for you, or if you prefer a different kind of frozen treat, consider these alternatives:
- Homemade “Nice Cream”: A nutrient-dense, naturally sweetened option can be made by blending frozen bananas with a splash of milk or nut butter.
- Sorbet: Typically fat-free and dairy-free, but check the label, as many commercial sorbets are packed with added sugar. You can also make a simple version at home with fruit and a blender.
- Frozen Yogurt: Often lower in fat and calories than ice cream, but the sugar content can vary widely. Look for Greek yogurt-based products for a higher protein content.
- Mindful Portioning: Regardless of your choice, portion control is key. Use a small bowl or choose pre-portioned bars to avoid overindulging straight from the tub.
How to Make Your Indulgence Healthier
To enhance your frozen treat experience without adding empty calories, consider nutrient-rich toppings:
- Fresh Fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or mango chunks add natural sweetness, fiber, and vitamins.
- Nuts or Nut Butter: A sprinkle of almonds or a drizzle of melted peanut butter adds healthy fats and protein, helping you feel more satisfied.
- Cacao Nibs or Unsweetened Coconut: These offer flavor and texture without the added sugar.
Conclusion
Determining what is the healthiest ice cream to buy? ultimately depends on your personal health goals. For a low-calorie, high-protein option, brands like Halo Top or Enlightened are strong contenders, though they may contain sugar alternatives that can cause digestive upset. If you follow a keto diet, Rebel offers a creamy, low-carb solution. Those seeking a dairy-free treat can explore brands like Cado, made with avocado, but should be wary of the high saturated fat in some coconut-based options. For many, opting for a smaller portion of a higher-quality, full-fat ice cream with simple ingredients may be more satisfying and prevent overindulgence. Regardless of your choice, the best strategy is to read the label, practice portion control, and enjoy your treat mindfully. To see how Halo Top and Enlightened compare in a taste test, check out this Business Insider article: Who Makes the Best Diet Ice Cream, Halo Top, Arctic Zero, or Enlightened?.
