Demystifying 'Healthy' Ice Cream
The term "healthy" is relative when it comes to ice cream. Traditional premium ice creams, like Ben & Jerry's or Häagen-Dazs, are rich in fat, sugar, and calories. The so-called "healthier" alternatives often contain fewer calories and fat but achieve this by using alternative sweeteners and processed ingredients that may cause digestive issues in some people. To make an informed choice, you must consider what matters most to you: low calories, low sugar, high protein, or a simple, whole-food ingredient list.
Key factors for evaluating healthier ice cream
- Read the ingredients: A shorter, more recognizable ingredient list is generally better. Look for brands that use real milk, cream, and natural sweeteners, and avoid artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
- Analyze the sugar and sweeteners: Check for added sugars and be aware of sugar alcohols like erythritol, which can cause bloating or gas in some individuals. Brands using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract are often lower in calories.
- Check the macronutrients: Compare the calories, fat, and protein per serving. High-protein options can increase satiety, while lower fat may appeal to those watching their calorie intake.
- Consider dietary needs: If you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or on a ketogenic diet, your choices will be different. Coconut milk-based options tend to be higher in saturated fat, while avocado-based brands offer healthier fats.
Leading Brands in the "Healthier" Category
Many brands have entered the market with frozen desserts claiming to be healthier, but they are not all created equal. Here is a closer look at some of the most popular options.
Halo Top
Halo Top is arguably the most well-known healthy ice cream brand. It has gained popularity for its low-calorie, high-protein pints.
- Pros: Very low in calories, high in protein, and offers a wide variety of flavors. It is sweetened with a mix of sugar and erythritol, a sugar alcohol that keeps the sugar content low.
- Cons: Some people report an aftertaste from the sugar alcohols and a less creamy texture compared to traditional ice cream. Its keto series uses more fillers and highly processed ingredients.
Enlightened
Similar to Halo Top, Enlightened offers low-calorie, high-protein, and low-sugar options.
- Pros: Praised for its creamy texture, it provides significant protein and fiber content. It's available in both dairy and dairy-free keto collections.
- Cons: Uses sugar alcohols like erythritol and sugar replacers like soluble corn fiber, which can affect those with digestive sensitivities.
NadaMoo!
For those seeking a vegan, dairy-free, and organic option, NadaMoo! is a top choice.
- Pros: Made with a coconut milk base, many flavors are organic, and the coconut flavor is subtle. It is also certified vegan and dairy-free.
- Cons: Because of the coconut milk base, it can be higher in saturated fat than other non-dairy or light ice creams.
Rebel Creamery
Rebel focuses on high-fat, low-carb ice cream specifically for those on ketogenic diets.
- Pros: Uses cream for a rich, satisfying texture with a low net carb count. It uses monk fruit and erythritol as sweeteners, resulting in zero grams of added sugar.
- Cons: Higher in fat and calories than low-calorie alternatives, though this is by design for the keto diet.
Arctic Zero
Arctic Zero offers a very low-calorie, plant-based frozen dessert made from faba beans.
- Pros: Extremely low in calories and fat, and suitable for vegans.
- Cons: The texture is often described as more icy and less creamy than traditional ice cream. It may not provide the same rich, decadent experience.
Comparison table of popular "healthy" brands (per 2/3 cup serving)
| Brand | Calories (approx.) | Saturated Fat (g) | Added Sugar (g) | Sweeteners | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halo Top (Vanilla Bean) | 100 | 1.5 | 3 | Erythritol, Sugar | Calorie Counters |
| Enlightened (Cookies & Cream) | 120 | 3.5 | 7 | Erythritol, Soluble Corn Fiber | Texture Seekers |
| NadaMoo! (Vanilla Bean) | 160 | 8 | 2 | Organic Agave, Inulin | Organic & Dairy-Free |
| Rebel (Vanilla) | 190 | 19 | 0 | Erythritol, Monk Fruit | Keto Diet |
| Arctic Zero (Chocolate) | 50 | 0 | 8 | Allulose, Monk Fruit | Very Low Calorie |
Finding your perfect "healthy" scoop
Ultimately, the healthiest ice cream is the one that aligns with your personal dietary goals and provides the most satisfaction. For those counting calories, Halo Top or Arctic Zero are clear winners. If you follow a keto or low-carb diet, Rebel Creamery offers a rich, satisfying option. Vegans can turn to NadaMoo! for an organic, coconut-based treat, while those prioritizing a simple, whole-food ingredient list might seek out brands like Cado, which uses avocado for a creamy base.
For a truly minimalist approach, consider making your own ice cream at home using simple, wholesome ingredients like frozen bananas and a splash of milk for a dessert free of added sugars or artificial additives. No matter your choice, portion control is key, and savoring every spoonful is the best part of any treat.
Conclusion: Navigating the frozen aisle
There's no single brand that is definitively the "healthiest" ice cream for everyone. The best choice depends on your personal nutritional priorities, whether that's minimizing calories, sugar, or ingredients. Low-calorie options like Halo Top and Enlightened use alternative sweeteners to reduce sugar and calories, while brands like Rebel cater to keto lifestyles with higher fat content. Vegan choices like NadaMoo! or Arctic Zero use plant-based ingredients but vary in their fat and texture. By carefully reading nutrition labels and ingredient lists, you can find a frozen dessert that satisfies your craving while aligning with your overall health goals. The occasional indulgence in a portion-controlled serving is a perfectly acceptable part of a balanced diet.
