Ice cream is a guilty pleasure for many people, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little mindfulness and a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy your favorite icy treat without all the guilt.

Choose a healthier base

Most ice cream is made with heavy cream and loads of sugar, but there are healthier alternatives. Look for ice cream brands that use a base of milk or yogurt instead of cream.

You can also make your own ice cream at home using coconut milk or cashew cream as the base.

Go for fruit flavors

Fruit-flavored ice cream is a refreshing and guilt-free alternative to traditional ice cream. It’s lower in calories and sugar, and often contains real fruit chunks or puree. Some popular fruit flavors include strawberry, raspberry, and peach.

Try sorbet or sherbet

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, sorbet and sherbet are great choices. Sorbet is made with fruit puree, water, and sugar, while sherbet includes some dairy, usually milk or cream.

Both options are lower in calories and fat than ice cream, and they come in a variety of flavors.

Look for low-sugar options

Many ice cream brands offer low-sugar or no-sugar-added options. These ice creams are sweetened with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead of refined sugar. They’re a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without all the added sugar.

Watch your portion size

No matter what kind of ice cream you choose, it’s important to watch your portion size. A standard serving size is half a cup, but many people eat much more than that in one sitting.

Use a measuring cup to make sure you’re sticking to the recommended serving size.

Top it off with fresh fruit

Add some extra flavor and nutrition to your ice cream by topping it with fresh fruit. Try strawberries, blueberries, or sliced banana.

Not only will it make your ice cream more colorful and delicious, but it will also add some valuable vitamins and minerals to your diet.

Make a healthy sundae

If you’re in the mood for a sundae, you can still enjoy one without all the calories and sugar. Start with a healthy base like yogurt or sorbet, and top it off with fresh fruit, nuts, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips.

It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in a classic treat.

Choose quality over quantity

When it comes to ice cream, it’s better to choose a high-quality, premium brand than to indulge in a whole pint of low-quality ice cream. Look for brands that use whole, natural ingredients and avoid artificial colors and flavors.

Share with a friend

If you’re out for ice cream with a friend, consider sharing a single scoop instead of each getting your own. Not only will you cut down on calories and sugar, but you’ll also save some money.

Conclusion

With these simple tips, you can enjoy your ice cream without all the guilt. From choosing a healthier base to watching your portion size, there are plenty of ways to indulge in this classic treat without giving up your healthy lifestyle.