How To Eat Ice Cream without Regrets
How To Eat Ice Cream without Regrets: Ice creams have a certain “bad reputation”: that if I get fat, it contains too much sugar. But what repercussions does it have for your health?
Some are rich in fats and sugars, that is, in calories, but if you only consume them occasionally and choose well, they can become your ally in controlling the craving for food. And it is that in addition to being hydrating, nutritious and satiating, they can help you calm anxiety and stress.
A trick to avoid adding calories is to take it in the afternoon instead of as a dessert at mealtime, and the serving is 50 g (never more than 100). Also, try to compensate with a light dinner: vegetables, white fish, and fruit. If you had it for dessert, do it at noon better than at night and then go for a walk.
THE BENEFITS OF ICE CREAM
Some studies show that its consumption activates the brain’s areas associated with the feeling of well-being (the same ones that start when you see or do something that you really like).
The reason could be that some ingredients stimulate the production of endorphins, neurotransmitters that trigger the sensation of pleasure.
On the other hand, according to research from the University of Maryland (USA), ice creams help us relax and improve our mood because they contain a good dose of tryptophan. This substance is an essential amino acid that favors the production of serotonin, involved with the feeling of well-being, relaxation, and good humor.
WHAT KIND OF ICE CREAM IS BEST
Depending on the type of ice cream and the quality and quantity of the ingredients, its nutritional and energy value varies. For example, those containing dairy are a good source of calcium, complete protein, and some vitamins (especially type B).
Ideally, prepare them at home, or at least, try to be as artisanal as possible.
To reduce the amount of sugar, choose to make them from sweet and ripe fruits (figs, pear, mango).
Keep in mind that banana or avocado provides creaminess. This way, you save part of the milk and add fiber, healthy fats.
Take note of what you can afford (even if they are industrial):
Of water
- The poles are the lightest, they have 88% water. They range from 39 kcal per unit to 95-100 kcal, depending on the amount of sugar.
- Sorbets have a maximum of 80% water and 30% air, so they are low in calories (65 kcal). To consider them “fruit,” they must have 15% of it.
- Slushies (pineapple, watermelon, green tea) are a good option.
With non-dairy fat
- Ice creams made from vegetable fats are lighter. A medium ball can provide about 78 kcal.
- Another advantage is that they do not contain cholesterol or lactose (the sugar in milk).
Creamy
- In a glass or cone, they are much more energetic (from 100 to 350 kcal per 100 g, or more), since they are made with dairy and sugars.
- The basic ingredient is milk cream. A small ball is about 116 kcal (not counting those of the cookie).
- With skimmed milk, they are lighter.
