Ice Cream: Understanding the Truth About Frozen Treats

As a personal trainer, one of the most common questions I hear is about balancing

indulgence with health goals. Today, let’s dive deep into the world of frozen desserts while

exploring how they fit into a balanced lifestyle.

Picture this: You’ve just finished an intense run or a heavy weight session, you sculled some

vitamin water, but you are still craving something sweet. An Ice Cream is sounding really

good right about now but you think to yourself is ice cream a junk food? Is ice cream

healthy or unhealthy? I don’t want to undo all of the hard work I have just put in!

let’s explore the fascinating truth behind frozen treats and their place in your wellness

journey.

Gone are the days when ice cream was just a guilty pleasure. Whether its Bulla ice cream,

Coles ice cream, Peters ice cream or Woolworths ice cream, manufacturers are

revolutionising how we think about frozen treats. The modern freezer aisle is a testament to

innovation, sitting alongside frozen healthy meals, the ice cream industry has evolved to

offer healthier alternatives.

In terms of good old fashioned ice cream, many brands have created a lower calorie

options. whether that be through reduced fats or reduced sugar, in moderation ice cream

can still be enjoyed in a caloric deficit. Now it is important to note that I stated in

Moderation! You may be thinking, Why is eating too much ice cream unhealthy? Especially

if I opt for the lower caloric alternative.

And that is because even when certain ingredients

are reduced, they are still present or another ingredient is compensating for the loss of

another e.g. low fat could mean higher sugar. At the end of the day, ice cream is extremely

processed no matter what its form, leading to many health issues and diseases if consumed

to excess. Therefore, moderation and balance is key.

But what about milk and making your own ice cream? Is milk considered a processed food due to its additives?

This all depends on the brand of milk. All milk has undergone some form of processing once

it hits the supermarket shelves, but some brands more than others. So do your research and

whip up some homemade ice cream in your ice cream maker for a ‘healthier’ alternative.

Now, if you really want to reap nutritional benefits while digging into a sweet treat, consider

frozen yogurt. It’s not just a trendy alternative, it’s a probiotic-rich option that can

complement your daily multivitamin and immune booster routine. Frozen yogurt in general

also has far less calories than a serving of ice cream, which means it is far more ideal for a

deficit driven diet.

However, if you are still wanting a bowl of ice cream or a slice of ice cream cake, here are

my considerations;

1. Balance your dessert with a vibrant fruit platter or fruit bowl.

2. Read nutrition labels carefully – know what you are actually consuming.

3. Checking for added health benefits.

4. Consider portion sizes.

My professional perspective as a personal trainer deeply involved in health and nutrition, is

that I see frozen treats as part of a balanced lifestyle. Like any food choice, it’s about

moderation and context. Just as you wouldn’t consume olive oil by the bottle despite its

health benefits, ice cream should be enjoyed mindfully.

Remember: Health isn’t about perfection – it’s about balance. Whether you’re reaching for a frozen yogurt after your run or sharing an ice cream cake at a celebration, make choices

that support both your physical and mental well-being.