Did you know traditional ice cream must have at least 10% milk fat to be called “ice cream” by the U.S. Department of Agriculture? That’s a lot of saturated fat and calories in one serving, making it harder for those looking to lose weight. Fortunately, there are healthier ice cream options available that can help satisfy your cravings without derailing your weight loss goals.
In this article, we’ll explore the healthiest ice cream for weight loss. From low-calorie and high-protein to dairy-free and keto-friendly options, we’ll review their nutritional profiles and health benefits. This guide will help you choose the best ice cream for your weight loss journey.
Key Takeaways
- Traditional ice cream is high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar, making it a less-than-ideal choice for weight loss.
- Healthier ice cream options, such as low-calorie, high-protein, and dairy-free varieties, can satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting your weight loss goals.
- Factors like calorie, fat, and sugar content should be considered when selecting the healthiest ice cream for weight loss.
- Portion control and moderation are still important when enjoying even the healthiest ice cream options.
- Homemade ice cream can provide more control over ingredients and nutrition, allowing you to create a truly guilt-free treat.
Introduction to Healthier Ice Cream Options
Looking for the healthiest ice cream for weight loss? You’re in luck. There are many options that fit different diets and goals2. Prices range from $0.31 to $1.87 per ounce or $4.99 to $14.99 per package2. This makes them affordable for those wanting a guilt-free treat.
Today, you can find low-calorie, low-fat, and high-protein ice creams. There are also plant-based, keto-friendly, and portion-controlled choices3. These new ice creams are not only tasty but also good for you, helping with health and fitness goals.
Whether you want a low-sugar, nutrient-rich treat or a dairy-free option, there’s something for everyone4. These guilt-free ice creams use quality ingredients and are portion-controlled. This way, you can enjoy something sweet without the usual calorie and fat issues.
Remember, moderation is key when it comes to healthier ice cream3. While these options are better than regular ice cream, they should be enjoyed in moderation. By adding these options to a balanced diet and active lifestyle, you can satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping healthy and managing your weight.
Halo Top: A Protein-Packed, Low-Calorie Favorite
Halo Top has changed the game for those who want delicious, guilt-free ice cream. It’s a hit among health enthusiasts who want to enjoy sweet treats without gaining weight5. With about 100 calories per serving, it’s perfect for those watching their calories5.
The secret to Halo Top’s success is its unique ingredients. It uses skim milk, erythritol, and stevia for a creamy taste without the usual sugar and fat5. For example, a 1/2-cup of vanilla Halo Top has 70 calories, less than regular ice cream5.
Halo Top also offers a protein boost. Each 1/2-cup serving has 5 grams of protein, more than regular ice cream5. Its keto-friendly pints have 6-7 grams of protein and only 2-3 grams of net carbs per 2/3-cup5.
Halo Top has a wide range of options for different diets. It offers dairy-free pints with 100-120 calories and 3-4 grams of protein per 2/3-cup. It also has fruit pops with 35-90 calories and less than 1 gram of protein5.
Halo Top is known for its tasty, guilt-free ice cream. It’s a favorite among health-conscious ice cream lovers5. As we search for the healthiest ice cream, Halo Top stands out as a top choice for indulging without losing weight.
Enlightened: Keto-Friendly and Creamy
For those on a keto or low-carb diet, Enlightened ice cream is a great choice. It satisfies your sweet tooth without ruining your weight loss plans. This brand offers a variety of flavors that are both keto-friendly and creamy6.
Enlightened’s ice cream is made with milk, cream, and sugar alcohols. This gives it a rich taste with fewer carbs and calories than regular ice cream7. You can choose from classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla, or go for something more indulgent like cookie dough and peanut butter cup8.
The nutritional profile of Enlightened’s keto ice cream is impressive. Many flavors have only 1 gram of net carbs per serving. This makes them perfect for those on a low-carb diet8. You can find Enlightened keto ice cream at places like Sprouts, Whole Foods, and Kroger. However, it sells out fast because it’s so popular8.
While many people love Enlightened’s keto ice cream, some have concerns about certain ingredients. Soluble corn fiber and sugar might not fit the strictest keto rules8. Still, for a tasty and guilt-free ice cream that supports weight loss, Enlightened is a top pick6.
Arctic Zero: Deliciously Low-Calorie Pints
Arctic Zero is a top pick for the healthiest ice cream for weight loss. It offers low-calorie, portion-controlled pints. This means you can enjoy a full pint without the calories of regular ice cream9. Each pint has only 100-320 calories, making it a guilt-free treat10.
The secret to Arctic Zero’s creamy taste is its special ingredients. It mixes milk protein concentrate, erythritol, and natural flavors for a delicious low-calorie ice cream10. It also has non-dairy options for those who follow a plant-based or dairy-free diet, using pea protein9.
| Product | Calories per Serving | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Arctic Zero Dairy-Free Pints | 320 calories | $4.99 |
| Arctic Zero Dairy Pints | 150 calories | $4.99 |
| Halo Top Pints | 360-400 calories | $4.99 |
| Enlightened Pints | 60-100 calories | $4.99 |
Looking for a low-calorie, protein-rich treat or a plant-based option? Arctic Zero’s pints are a great choice. They offer portion-controlled servings and a healthy nutritional profile, perfect for a balanced lifestyle910.
“Arctic Zero offers a guilt-free way to indulge in a full serving of ice cream without the high-calorie count of traditional varieties.”
What’s the healthiest ice cream for weight loss?
Looking for ice cream that’s good for you and your weight loss goals? Look for options that are low in calories, high in protein, and packed with nutrients11. Brands like Halo Top and Enlightened offer creamy, guilt-free treats that let you indulge without ruining your diet11. These ice creams are low in calories but high in protein, helping you feel full and satisfied11.
If you’re on a keto or low-carb diet, Enlightened and Rebel ice creams are great choices11. They’re delicious and low in sugar. For those who prefer dairy-free options, ice creams made with avocado or oat milk are creamy and low in saturated fat11.
The best ice cream for weight loss varies based on your diet and preferences12. Opting for low-calorie, high-protein, and nutrient-rich options can help you enjoy ice cream while losing weight1112.
| Brand | Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halo Top Chocolate Ice Cream Cake | 120 | 3.5 g (2 g saturated) | 23 g (6 g fiber, 10 g sugar) | 6 g |
| Noosa Chocolate Fudge Gelato | 290 | 14 g (9 g saturated) | 36 g (2 g fiber, 32 g sugar) | 5 g |
| Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars | 100 | 2 g (1.5 g saturated) | 16 g (2 g fiber, 13 g sugar) | 5 g |
| Arctic Zero Salted Caramel | 50 | 0 g (0 g saturated) | 11 g (3 g fiber, 8 g sugar) | 2 g |
Choosing nutrient-dense, portion-controlled ice cream can help you enjoy treats while losing weight12. Remember, it’s all about moderation. Enjoy these treats as part of a balanced, healthy diet12.
Frozen Yogurt: A Tangy, Probiotic-Rich Option
Frozen yogurt is a great choice for those looking for a healthier ice cream option. It has less fat and calories than regular ice cream, making it a guilt-free treat13. The yogurt base gives it a tangy taste and creamy texture, plus it’s full of probiotics for your gut health14.
When picking frozen yogurt, choose options with less sugar and real yogurt. Greek yogurt-based treats, like Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars, are especially good. They’re high in protein to keep you full13.
| Frozen Yogurt Product | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enlightened Chocolate Greek Yogurt | 120 | 3.5 | 24 | 10 |
| Alden’s Organic Strawberry Twist Greek Yogurt Bar | 90 | 1.5 | 19 | 2 |
| Halo Top Icelandic-Style Skyr Yogurt Pops (Strawberry) | 110 | 3 | 17 | 4 |
| Yasso Frozen Yogurt Bars (Chocolate) | 80 | 0 | 15 | 5 |
| Mixmi Frozen Yogurt Totally Vanilla | 90 | 1.5 | 14 | 3 |
| Cremily French Frozen Yogurt (Vanilla) | 170 | 12 | 18 | 6 |
| Whole Foods’ Organic 365 Frozen Yogurt Bars | 80 | 1 | 15 | 4 |
| Clio Zero Sugar Yogurt Bars | 100 | 6 | 12 | 7 |
| Kroger Deluxe Lowfat Vanilla Frozen Yogurt | 90 | 1.5 | 18 | 2 |
| Ben & Jerry’s Half-Baked FroYo | 230 | 3.5 | 35 | 6 |
| Noosa Yoghurt Chocolate Fudge | 290 | 14 | 36 | 5 |
| Kemps Frozen Yogurt Moose Tracks Caramel Brownie | 200 | 7 | 32 | 3 |
The nutritional values of frozen yogurt can differ a lot between brands and flavors14. Always check the nutrition label. Look for options with less sugar, fat, and calories, but more protein and probiotics14.
“Frozen yogurt can be a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional ice cream, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture while also delivering beneficial probiotics.”
Frozen yogurt is a tasty and healthy choice for those who love sweets but want to stay on track with their health and weight loss goals. By picking the right brand and flavor, you can enjoy a satisfying treat that’s full of protein and probiotics1314.
Sorbet and Popsicles: Fruit-Based and Refreshing
Sorbet and popsicles are healthier alternatives to traditional ice cream. Made from fruit puree, water, and a bit of sugar, sorbet is a low-calorie, fat-free treat many enjoy for its lighter, refreshing quality. Additionally, popsicles crafted from real fruit juice and without added sugars offer a similarly refreshing, low-calorie option. These treats are perfect for those looking to indulge their sweet tooth while maintaining a balanced diet.
Healthier Sorbet and Popsicle Options
Today, many brands provide healthier, fruit-based frozen desserts. Häagen-Dazs offers dairy-free sorbet pints in delicious flavors such as raspberry and mango. Halo Top has lower-sugar sorbet options, with calories ranging from 260 to 310 per pint. The Frozen Farmer produces a sorbet with no added sugar and under 100 calories per pint, made with farm-sourced ingredients.
Popsicle brands also cater to healthier choices. Jolly Llama offers sorbet pops free from common allergens, available in mango, raspberry, and strawberry flavors. Island Way Sorbet, available at Costco, is ideal for parties with its vibrant, fruit-based flavors.
Why Sorbet and Popsicles Are Great Alternatives
Sorbet and popsicles are excellent options for anyone seeking a cool, fruity treat that is healthier than regular ice cream. With a wide range of brands offering nutritious, fruit-based options, you’re sure to find a frozen delight that fits your diet and satisfies your cravings.
| Product | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Fiber (g) | Protein (g) | Sodium (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kind Frozen Treat Bars Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate Nut | 180 | 13 | 16 | 8 (7 added) | 7 | 4 | 45 |
| Yasso Greek Yogurt Vanilla Bean Poppables | 35 | 1.5 | 4 | 3 (2 added) | 0 | 1 | 10 |
| Chloe’s Oatmilk Cookies & Cream Pops | 120 | 5 | 17 | 12 (11 added) | 1 | 2 | 25 |
These fruit-based treats are a healthier way to enjoy sweets. They have fewer calories, less sugar, and more fiber and protein. Sorbet and popsicles are perfect for those trying to lose weight1517.
“Sorbet and popsicles are a refreshing and low-calorie way to cool down on a hot day, without the guilt of traditional ice cream.”
Dairy-Free and Vegan Ice Cream Alternatives
Good news for those on a vegan or dairy-free diet! The world of plant-based ice cream is now more diverse and tasty. Brands like NadaMoo!, Cado, and Ben & Jerry’s offer many dairy-free, vegan ice cream options. They use coconut milk, oat milk, and avocado18.
These plant-based ice creams might not be as creamy as traditional ones. But they still offer a tasty frozen treat without animal products. Plus, they often have fewer calories and less fat than dairy ice creams, making them a better choice for weight loss18.
- Cado’s vegan ice cream pints have 220 to 230 calories per serving18.
- Holi Scoops’ frozen desserts have 430 to 480 calories per pint. Flavors include Conscious Coffee, Double Chocolate Chipper, and Vanilla Bean18.
- Arctic Zero’s non-dairy ice cream pints have fewer calories than a single serving of premium full-fat vegan ice cream. Flavors like Chocolate Peanut Butter and Purely Chocolate18.
- Frönen’s vegan Salted Caramel Swirl has 210 calories per serving and 630 calories per pint. It’s made from five recognizable ingredients18.
- Wildgood’s low-calorie pints, made with extra virgin olive oil, have 600 calories or less. Flavors include Mint Chocolate Chip, Triple Berry, and Vanilla Bean18.
For a premium vegan experience, try Ben & Jerry’s and Van Leeuwen. They offer indulgent options for different tastes. Ben & Jerry’s Non-Dairy Strawberry Cheezecake and Van Leeuwen’s creamy peanut butter are just a few examples19.
Whether you’re trying to lose weight or just want healthier treats, plant-based ice cream has it all. With so many delicious and nutritious options, enjoying your favorite frozen dessert without dairy is easier than ever.
Low-Fat and Light Ice Cream Varieties
Looking for the healthiest ice cream for weight loss? Low-fat and “light” ice creams are a good choice. They have less fat and calories than regular ice cream, thanks to skim milk20. Even though they’re not as creamy, they still satisfy your sweet tooth without ruining your diet21. Just remember, some may have added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Some top picks include Halo Top with 150 calories per container20, and Enlightened with 240 to 280 calories and 24 grams of protein per pint20. You can also try ProYo high-protein ice cream, Greek yogurt bars, and Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches for lower-calorie treats20.
| Product | Calories | Protein | Fat | Sugar | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yasso Strawberries & Cream Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars | 80 per bar | 4g | 0g | 12g | N/A |
| Nick’s Strawbär Swirl Swedish-Style Light Ice Cream | 90 per 2/3 cup | 3g | 5g | 1g | $9.99 per pint |
| Enlightened Sea Salt Caramel Bars | 80 per bar | 5g | 2g | 5g | N/A |
| Breyer’s CarbSmart Brownie a la Mode | 120 per 2/3 cup | 1g | 6g | 4g | N/A |
| Edy’s/Dreyer’s Slow Churned Classic Vanilla Light Ice Cream | 130 per 2/3 cup | 3g | 4g | 17g | N/A |
| Halo Top Light Vanilla Ice Cream | 100 per 2/3 cup | 6g | 2g | 7g | N/A |
| So Delicious Vanilla Sandwiches Almondmilk Frozen Dessert | 100 per sandwich | 1g | 4g | 7g | N/A |
Homemade low-fat and light ice cream recipes are also a great choice. For example, a “4 Ingredient Dairy-Free Keto Ice Cream” made with coconut milk, almond butter, vanilla extract, and stevia is a healthier option22. You can also make almond milk-based ice cream with different flavors for a tasty treat22.
“Low-fat and light ice creams can satisfy your sweet cravings without derailing your diet, as long as you watch out for added sugars or artificial sweeteners.”
Homemade Ice Cream: Controlling Ingredients
Making homemade ice cream allows you to choose healthier ingredients. Options like Greek yogurt, skim milk, and natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup can be used to create a more nutritious treat. Adding fresh fruit, nuts, or spices like cinnamon or turmeric enhances flavor while also contributing to your overall health. This way, you can enjoy ice cream that supports your weight loss goals.
Nutrient-Dense Ice Cream Recipe
One popular, nutrient-dense ice cream recipe, with 4-5 servings, has earned a 5-star rating from 378 reviews. The ingredients include:
- 2 cups of coconut milk
- 1/3 cup of erythritol, xylitol, or another sweetener
- 1/8 tsp of salt
- 1 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
This homemade ice cream is vegan, paleo, egg-free, dairy-free, low-carb, sugar-free, soy-free, and gluten-free. For a creamier texture, you can use full-fat canned coconut milk. Enjoy it on the day you make it, though leftovers can be frozen for up to a month. You can also customize flavors by adding ingredients like cocoa powder, fruits, or nuts.
Protein-Packed Ice Cream for a Healthy Boost
If you’re looking for a protein-rich dessert, another option is a protein-packed ice cream that contains approximately:
- 210 calories per serving
- 21 grams of protein
- 11 grams of fat
Whey protein powder, with 25 grams of essential nutrients per scoop, can be used to increase the nutritional value of your ice cream. To avoid added sugars, consider using unflavored whey.
Creativity in Homemade Ice Cream
Whether you prefer creamy ice cream or a fruit-based sorbet, making your own frozen dessert lets you control the ingredients to match your dietary needs and taste preferences. With a bit of creativity, you can whip up delicious, weight-loss-friendly ice cream that satisfies your cravings.
| Nutritional Information for Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream |
|---|
| Calories per serving: 7225 |
| Carbohydrates: 12g25 |
| Protein: 2g25 |
| Fat: 3g25 |
| Sugar: 8g25 |
| Vitamin C: 53mg25 |
The homemade strawberry ice cream recipe also includes 30g of cream cheese and 30g of fresh strawberries. These add to the creamy texture and fruitiness of the dessert25.
Conclusion
The world of low-calorie ice cream, high-protein ice cream, and guilt-free ice cream is full of tasty and healthy options. Brands like Halo Top26 and Enlightened offer low-calorie, high-protein, and creamy treats. These help us enjoy ice cream without ruining our diet.
Looking for portion-controlled ice cream, low-fat ice cream, or dairy-free and vegan options? There’s a wide range of guilt-free choices out there. You can find fruit-based sorbets, probiotic-rich frozen yogurt, or even make your own with nutrient-dense ingredients2627.
Choosing the healthiest ice cream for weight loss depends on our goals and tastes. Look at calorie count, macronutrient balance, and ingredient quality. This way, we can enjoy a tasty treat that’s good for our health. With so many guilt-free options, we can indulge without worrying about our diet.
FQA
For weight loss, choose low-calorie, high-protein ice creams like Halo Top and Enlightened. You can also opt for dairy-free, plant-based, keto-friendly, or homemade ice creams made with healthier ingredients. For more information on egg-free ice cream options, check out our guide here.Can I eat ice cream if I’m trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can have ice cream in moderation as part of a healthy diet for losing weight. Pick lower-calorie, low-fat, or high-protein ice creams to satisfy your sweet tooth without sabotaging your goals. You can learn more about ice cream components on Wikipedia.
What ice cream has the lowest sugar?
Brands like Halo Top, Enlightened, and Arctic Zero contain less sugar than traditional ice cream. They often use sugar alcohols or alternative sweeteners to reduce sugar content.
What is the healthiest ice cream to order?
The healthiest ice cream options are those that are low-calorie, low-fat, or high-protein, such as Halo Top, Enlightened, or Arctic Zero. Dairy-free or low-fat variations of traditional ice cream are also good choices.
Which ice cream flavor is best for weight loss?
There’s no single best flavor for weight loss. The healthiest option depends on the ice cream’s nutritional content. Look for flavors with fewer calories, sugar, and fat, such as vanilla, chocolate, or fruit-based options.
What is the healthiest way to eat ice cream?
Enjoy ice cream in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Opt for smaller portions, choose low-calorie or high-protein options, and avoid those with added sugars and unhealthy fats. Making homemade ice cream with low-fat dairy and natural sweeteners is also a healthy alternative.