There isn't a child I know who doesn't love the creamy and sweet taste of ice cream. As we try to beat the summer heat, it's hard to resist the call of the ice cream truck!
Real ice cream is made by churning and chilling a high-fat milk mixture with some form of sugar, which freezes into a rich and creamy consistency. It's a common knowledge that ice cream is not exactly a good source of nutrients. The sweet treat is high in excess fat and sugar, but eaten in moderation it can be part of a child's diet.
Pros
- Pure ice cream with few additives is an excellent source of energy for kids, double that of milk.
- It is a source of vitamins and minerals, specifically calcium and phosphorus.
Cons
- Ice cream is a high fat food since it must contain greater than 10 per cent milk fat to be labelled "ice cream."
- The fat is mostly saturated, which even at an early age can increase a child's bad cholesterol, triglycerides and weight.
- Excess sugar in ice cream contributes to weight gain and hyperactivity.
When selecting ice cream for an occasional indulgence with the kids, here's a guide for which frozen treats to choose and lose!
Which Ice Cream Treats To Choose And Lose
Ice cream can be a tasty snack or dessert for a treat -- the key word is treat! It shouldn't be a staple in your family's diet. Stick to the children's size servings due to the excess fat, calories and sugar.
Better yet, try the soft serve, frozen yogurt, sorbets or sherbets for a lower calorie and fat count. Avoid milkshakes, blizzards, high fat "mix ins," high fat sauces and whipped cream.
Happy summer snacking!