8 Things You Need to Know About "Healthy" Ice Cream

The freezer section of the grocery storer is now full of ice cream cartons that boast protein (post-workout reward qualifier?) and have no dairy, less sugar, less fat, and fewer calories. But is this license to pop a pint more often? We chatted with dietitians to get the scoop on healthy ice cream. Here are eight things that you need to know.

8 Truths About "Healthy" Ice Cream That Every Athlete Should Keep in Mind

1. Some healthy ice cream contains protein, but not as much as you think.

The labels may boast 20 grams of protein, but that’s usually per pint, Jim White, RDN, ACSM EX-P, and the owner of Jim White Fitness & Nutrition Studios, explains. “The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 20 to 30 grams of protein during the recovery period from exercise."

So treat your ice cream as, well, a treat — not a protein powerhouse.

"If you’re sticking with the ½ to ⅔ cup serving size — as you should — you’re only taking in between 5 and 7 grams of protein," Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, the author of Prediabetes: A Complete Guide, says. "That’s about as much as a single egg, and the egg is plenty nutritious.”

2. It may not be the type of protein you need.

“Many of these ‘healthier’ ice creams do get their protein from skim milk and eggs, but they also contain milk or plant-based protein concentrate, similar to what’s found in your typical protein bar or shake,” Katie Hake, RDN, says.

Remember, most of your nutrients should come from whole foods.

3. Be mindful of added sugar.

If you stick with a ½-cup serving, the sugar damage will likely be only 6 grams, which is lower than many pre-packaged ice cream treats or full-fat ice cream pints. But it’s still added sugar, which research proves doesn’t provide the sustained energy boost of higher quality carbs (like whole grains).

4. The sugar alcohols may not sit well with you.

These high-protein, “lower-sugar” ice cream options often contain sugar alcohols, gums, and other fibers. Sugar alcohols have been proven to cause GI distress in some cases, so they may bother your stomach more than eating regular ice cream, particularly if you’re lactose intolerant. So, scoop only a small amount to start.

“Some people don’t tolerate these added fibers well and should eat only very small amounts until they boost their comfort level,” Weisenberger says.

5. It may not satisfy you as much as full-fat ice cream would.

Thanks to the added fibers and sugar alcohols in lieu of pure cane sugar, lower-fat, lower-calorie healthy ice cream may not taste as satisfying as a full-fat bowl. This may spur you to eat a lot more of it. You may feel more satiated eating a smaller portion of full-fat ice cream or another frozen treat.

“One of my favorite frozen dessert portion control tricks is to forgo the ice cream pint and buy items that are pre-portioned, like bars and sandwiches,” Weisenberger says.

6. Dairy-free versions may not be much better for you.

You may think that trying a vegan or dairy-free ice cream treat is your healthiest option — and it is, if you’re lactose intolerant or eat vegan. But if you’re not, know that many vegan ice creams are packed with sugar and sugar alcohols.

“Some dairy-free versions are similar in total carbohydrates and added sugars," Weisenberger says. "When comparing, be sure to check the serving size on the Nutrition Facts label."

7. Even if it says “superfood,” stick with the serving size.

What’s the story with pints made with “superfoods,” or sweetened with fruit sugar instead of cane sugar? Some offer a decent amount of protein, like those containing nuts, nut milk — or other non-dairy milk — and seeds. Others, like avocado ice cream, offer healthy fats, but no protein.

“Superfood ice creams can be a fun alternative to lighter ice cream, but whichever treat you choose, enjoy it in moderation,” White says.

8. Blending your own is your best bet.

To avoid excess sugar and sugar alcohols (and dairy, if that bothers you), make your own “nice cream,” which usually has a base of frozen bananas.

“Fructose can be used as energy and a great source of fuel, especially for athletes, and shouldn’t be feared," Hake explains. "In addition to energy, fruit provides antioxidants and other essential vitamins and minerals to help us perform at our best."

Blend frozen bananas with peanut butter and a little milk to a thick consistency. Top with dark chocolate chips or walnuts, and dig in — no grocery store run required.