Are ‘Healthy’ Ice Creams Really Healthy?

The ice cream freezer at the grocery store feels different these days. Sure, there are still decadent ooey-gooey options to consider. But there are also frozen treats that seem almost … well, healthy.

The better-for-you ice cream market is booming with low-sugar, high-protein and even dairy-free varieties to satisfy cravings. But are any of these “healthy” ice creams actually good for you? Or can they help you lose weight?

Let’s get the scoop from registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD.

Can ice cream be healthy?

Ice cream is not exactly a health food in any form — but that doesn’t mean it’s always unhealthy, either, says Zumpano. (How’s that for covering all the bases?)

Let’s start with the obvious: Nobody’s confusing ice cream with healthy menu choices such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eating a bowl of ice cream every day won’t improve your health no matter what type you eat.

However, if you choose an ice cream made from more simple, natural ingredients ­— more on that in a bit — the dish becomes a bit less unhealthy.

But that still doesn’t move healthier ice creams into the “health food” category. (Sorry!)

‘Healthier’ ice cream options

Premium or regular ice creams are known for being heavy hitters when it comes to calories, saturated fat and sugar content. It’s the dietary price paid for the treat’s creamy, sweet goodness.

But there are options in the freezer section for those looking to lower that cost, whether it’s for weight-watching reasons or to meet specific dietary needs.

Let’s peek at a few of them with Zumpano to see what you’re getting.

Low-fat, low-calorie ice creams

Manufacturers don’t use magic to lower the calories, fat and sugar in ice cream. Instead, they often rely on artificial sweeteners (such as sugar alcohols) to deliver that expected oh-so-yummy taste.

But there’s growing concern about the health effects of artificial sweeteners such as erythritol, a common sugar substitute that’s been linked to increased risk for heart attack and stroke.

Artificial sweeteners also may cause gastrointestinal distress, as your body can’t fully digest them. That’s a reality that can lead to tummy troubles such as bloating, gas and diarrhea depending upon your sensitivity.

Bottom line? “There’s evidence that artificial sweeteners aren’t good for us, especially in larger amounts,” says Zumpano.

And remember, too, that these lower-calorie options still have calories. In many cases, the calorie count isn’t even that much lower per serving than regular ice cream. So, be mindful of serving sizes.

Protein-rich ice cream

Boosting protein content has become a diet obsession for many people in recent years. Ice cream manufacturers responded with more protein-rich products. The added protein does offer some benefits, notes Zumpano.

“It’s going to help from the standpoint of stabilizing your blood sugar, since protein slows down the rate of glucose entering your bloodstream,” she explains.

Food with more protein also hits your belly a little harder, which can make you feel full more quickly. Consider it a natural way to limit the size of ice cream sundaes. (“The hope is you consume less if you feel full,” she adds.)

But the perks of added-protein ice cream don’t mean it should be a diet staple.

“If you’re going to eat ice cream, you can get a little more out of the treat by choosing one with protein,” says Zumpano. “But I wouldn’t suggest relying on ice cream as a main protein source.”

Probiotic ice cream

Like protein-enhanced ice cream, varieties with added probiotics emerged to meet consumer demands for “healthier” food. There are potential benefits, too, given all the good done by probiotics.

But don’t count on ice cream as a primary source for these body-boosting microbes, cautions Zumpano. “You’d be better off eating yogurt” or other foods with naturally occurring probiotics, she says.

Dairy-free ice cream

In general, dairy-free ice cream made with ingredients such as coconut milk, almond milk or soy milk contains a similar amount of calories, fat and sugar as milk-based ice cream.

But dairy-free ice cream makes the treat tolerable for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan or who avoid dairy for other reasons.

4 ways to eat ice cream healthier

We all scream for ice cream, right? So, when you do, try these four tips to enjoy the treat while also giving yourself kudos for making healthy choices:

1. Portion control. A serving size of ice cream is typically half a cup, which is roughly one traditional scoop. (For the record, that means there are FOUR servings in a pint container.)
2. Watch the toppings. Traditional sundae toppings like chocolate sauce, whipped cream and candy bits can add a ton of calories to an already indulgent treat. Keep the add-ons to a minimum or use nutritious options such as fruit or protein-packed nuts.
3. Read labels. Look for an ingredient list with simple ingredients (milk, cream, sugar) as opposed to high fructose corn syrup or artificial ingredients.
4. Make ice cream a treat. Try to avoid making ice cream a regular part of your daily menu. “View it as a treat for special occasions as opposed to how you end every meal,” says Zumpano.

Treating yourself

No matter how it’s made, ice cream isn’t crossing into the health food category — and that’s perfectly fine.

“Accept ice cream for what it is, which is a treat and indulgence,” says Zumpano. “It’s OK for some foods to provide us with pleasure — and it’s important to take in those moments with gratitude and joy.”