If you’ve been following along for the past several months here on the blog, then you’ll know that I try my best to get sweating every day, and make health-conscious choices as often as possible. I love starting my day with a good workout and my morning smoothie, and then heading into work for a busy day. But, I have to admit that by the evening most days—and even more so on the weekends—I’m craving something sweet to sit back and relax with.
Of course, I completely believe in letting yourself indulge every once in a while, but if I can keep my treats both delicious AND guilt-free, then that’s the way to go! That said, I’ve been on the hunt for some of the best ice cream swaps on the market to satisfy my sweet tooth, all the while keeping me on track with my healthy diet. The best part about these swaps? Not only do they have lighter ingredients, fewer calories, and less sugar, but many of them also contain a good amount of protein, which is a major plus. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised at some of the options I’ve tried lately, and I hope that you all love them, too. Keep scrolling to see the best healthy (and delicious) ice cream swaps I’ve found so far…
1. HALO TOP
For months now, I’ve heard people rave so much about this ice cream brand that I had to try it for myself! While some flavors are better than others, I have to say that there are a few that I keep coming back to, and this peanut butter cup flavor is one of them. I love that each pint has anywhere between 240-360 calories (depending on the flavor), so you don’t have to feel guilty about those times when you accidentally go a little overboard and eat half of the pint.
2. ARCTIC ZERO
Arctic Zero seems to be the treat-of-choice for fitness experts and health enthusiasts alike, and it’s easy to see why. With only around 35 calories per serving, how can you resist? Plus, it’s probably one of the only ice cream varieties out there you can find with just 5g of sugar, 7g of carbs, and 0g of fat per serving. Sign me up!
3. ENLIGHTENED
The philosophy of Enlightened ice cream is to deliver a treat with more protein, and less sugar. This balance is perfect for me when I’m trying to keep my diet in check. With only 5g of sugar per serving and 6g of protein, this brand is definitely one I’ll be keeping on my shopping list.
4. LUNA & LARRY’S COCONUT BLISS
While the Luna & Larry’s Coconut Bliss brand isn’t quite as focused on a low-calorie, high protein balance, I still love the fact that their ice cream flavors are made with such wholesome ingredients. This option is perfect for any of you who are lactose-free, because all of these Coconut Bliss ice cream flavors are made with organic coconut milk. Plus, they have other options like ice cream sandwiches made of gluten-free cookies, organic agave syrup, brown rice flour, hemp seeds, and other power-packed ingredients.
5. SO DELICIOUS DAIRY FREE
Here’s another one for all you dairy-free diners looking for a good treat. The So Delicious brand makes all of their ice cream with different milk varieties, ranging from coconut, to cashew, to almond, and beyond. This one is probably best consumed in small servings since the brand doesn’t focus as heavily on low-cal and low-carb options, but it’s a great plant-based, vegan treat for anyone looking for a little all-natural indulgence.
6. DREYER’S SLOW CHURNED VANILLA
This classic vanilla ice cream from Dreyer’s is one that surprised me. With 100 calories per serving, it’s no Arctic Zero, but it sure rivals some of those healthy options on the shelves (and even beats some brands who claim to be healthier than they actually are). If you simply can’t stay away from classic dairy ice cream, then stick with this simple back-to-basics option and you won’t be disappointed.
Have you guys tried any of these healthy ice cream alternatives?
Make sure to let me know what you think, and if you have any other suggestions, don’t forget to send them my way so I can give them a try!
Cheers,
xx
GM