There is no definitive answer to whether ice cream is healthy or not, as opinions among scientists and health experts are divided. Some studies suggest that ice cream may have health benefits, while others warn that it is high in calories and added sugar, and low in nutrients. According to Healthline, most ice creams are calorie-dense and contain added sugar, and even low-fat and no-sugar-added choices are still high in calories. However, ice cream also contains nutrients like calcium, potassium, and magnesium that help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and strong teeth and bones, as mentioned by University Health News. Additionally, a study cited by The Atlantic found that among diabetics, eating half a cup of ice cream a day was associated with a lower risk of heart problems. It is important to enjoy ice cream in moderation and to consider the nutritional value of the specific type of ice cream being consumed. [1][2][3][4]. In addition to the above, ice cream is also a source of protein and fat. A single serving of vanilla frozen yogurt contains about 5 grams of protein and 3 grams of fat, while one cup of chocolate ice cream has 4.7 grams of protein and 5.3 grams of fat. To put this in perspective, a half cup of vanilla frozen yogurt contains about 10% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) for protein and 5% of the RDI for fat. One cup of chocolate ice cream has about 20% of the RDI for protein and 10% of that same amount for fat.
Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ice-cream
- https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2023/05/ice-cream-bad-for-you-health-study/673487/
- https://universityhealthnews.com/daily/nutrition/is-ice-cream-bad-for-you/
- https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/15/is-ice-cream-good-for-you-uk-scientists-give-idea-cold-shoulder
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Robert Morgan, Naturopath 