10 Reasons Ice Cream Is Actually Healthy For You

It’s no secret that ice cream is a universally loved food. With an endless array of flavors and topping options ranging from fruit to whipped cream to candy bits, there’s something for everyone. The smooth, creamy texture of ice cream has a special way of bringing people pure happiness and comfort, whether enjoyed during the hot summer months or the chilly winter season (let’s be honest, who hasn’t savored a few scoops of ice cream on a snowy day?).

Indeed, ice cream is an exceptional dessert. However, it’s commonly perceived as not being the healthiest food option available. But is that really the case?

Let me be clear, I’m not suggesting that indulging in a scoop of rocky road is equivalent to consuming a salad. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that ice cream is healthier than you may have previously thought.

We will demonstrate that there’s more to ice cream than what initially meets the eye. In fact, this delectable dessert contains numerous health benefits beyond what you may have initially assumed.

Ice cream can have positive impacts on your health

If you’re someone who occasionally feels guilty about indulging in an extra scoop of ice cream, don’t fret. While it’s essential to consume sweet treats in moderation, there’s no need to limit ice cream to rare occasions.

You’ll soon discover that certain ingredients in ice cream have been scientifically proven to offer health benefits!

Consuming ice cream on a daily basis can lead to weight loss!

If you’re doubting what you just read, rest assured that it’s true. As per an ABC News article, women who consumed one serving of low-fat ice cream each day (and men who had one and a half servings) lost 26% more body weight than those who refrained from doing so.

To be precise, it’s not the ice cream per se but rather the calcium content that promotes weight loss. Consequently, taking a calcium supplement could yield similar outcomes. Nevertheless, if the words “ice cream” and “weight loss” can be associated, why not give it a try?

1- The Key Health Benefit of Ice Cream: Calcium for Weight Loss

Scientists are still investigating the specific reasons why calcium can assist in maintaining a desired waistline, but the fundamental concept is that consuming calcium-rich foods can enhance overall bodily strength and promote healthy metabolism. This may contribute to easier weight management.

A research study found that consuming low-fat dairy products enables you to consume additional calories without experiencing weight regain, even if you have already lost weight.

 

2- Ice cream comprises essential vitamins and minerals

By consuming a serving of ice cream, you can obtain a rich source of milk and cream in your diet, which are excellent sources of calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, vitamin A, and phosphorus.

Moreover, the nutritional value of your ice cream can vary depending on your preferred flavor. For instance, vanilla beans contain antioxidants and a small quantity of essential nutrients such as calcium, manganese, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron. On the other hand, dark chocolate ice cream is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, oleic acid, which can help to decrease cholesterol levels, and phytochemicals that aid in combatting free radicals to protect the heart.

 

3- Consuming ice cream can activate the brain

A study carried out at Kyorin University in Tokyo indicated that consuming ice-cream for breakfast may enhance brain function. The researchers compared individuals who consumed ice cream to a group that drank cold water upon waking up, and those who ate ice cream exhibited significantly higher levels of alertness.

Critics argue that the effects may not be solely attributable to ice-cream since consuming any nutrient-rich food may have similar effects. Nonetheless, a dietician proposed that ice-cream’s ability to raise dopamine levels in the body could be responsible for enhancing alertness and wakefulness.