Is low-calorie ice cream really healthy? Know the truth inside

Ever been on a guilt trip after indulging in two or more scoops of ice cream? That’s exactly what led to the birth of low-calorie ice creams. As regular ice creams are sugar-dense and calorie-rich, a lighter alternative quickly gained popularity. Low-calorie ice cream has become a staple for health-conscious dessert lovers, with leading brands dominating freezer aisles. They are marketed as a guilt-free treat with fewer calories, less sugar, and often added protein. Such options promise indulgence without regret. But does low-calorie ice cream truly deserve its ‘healthy’ halo? Let’s take a look.

Low-calorie ice creams are made with low-fat dairy, artificial sweeteners, or milk alternatives to further slash the calories. Manufacturers replace cream with skim milk, milk protein concentrate, or plant-based alternatives. Similarly, sugar, which is used in regular ice creams, is swapped for low-calorie sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, monk fruit, or allulose. Some brands even add proteins using whey or casein to enhance satiety.

So, do all these ingredients make the ice cream healthy? Contrary to what many believe, it isn't exactly 'healthy'. Low-calorie ice creams are surely a smart choice compared to the regular ones, but 'healthy' is a stretch. This is because low-calorie ice creams use sugar alcohols, which can cause digestive issues like bloating ordiarrheain sensitive individuals. Sugar alcohols do not get fully absorbed, which lowers calories, but they can upset the stomach.

Artificial sweeteners are also linked to weight gain. Apart from this, to cut calories, the manufacturers often reduce fat, which impacts the texture and flavour. To compensate for this, additives like stabilizers or emulsifiers are added to mimic the creaminess of traditional ice cream. Though they are generally safe, these ingredients make the product more processed than classic ice cream made with cream, sugar, and eggs.

Low-calorie ice cream can be an option for those seeking a lighter ice cream and less guilt. However, paying attention to the labels can help to make an informed choice. Here's what you should be looking for.

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Ingredient list: The longer, the highly processed. The ingredients are listed in the order of quantity, so read the first two and see if they are healthy choices.

Calories: Low-calorie ice creams typically range from 100 to 200 calories per serving.

Serving size: It's important to keep an eye on the serving size, as a small serving can naturally contain fewer calories.

Added sugar: Added sugars are linked tonumerous diseases; hence, try not to pick ice creams that have more than 16 grams per serving.

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Saturated fat: Saturated fat islinkedwith an increased risk of heart disease. So limiting the intake is crucial. Look for 3-5 grams per serving, not more.