If you're looking for a sweet treat that won't wreck your diet, look no further than 2/3 cup (85 g) of chocolate ice cream, which contains only about 100 calories. And the best part? You get to indulge in the rich, velvety taste of chocolate without feeling guilty!
While chocolate ice cream may not be the healthiest food out there, it's okay to treat yourself every once in a while. In terms of nutrition, 2/3 cup (85 g) of chocolate ice cream contains about 6 grams of fat and 14 grams of sugar, so you'll want to be mindful of what else you're eating throughout the day. And if you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or have allergies, don't worry—we'll cover your options later on in this article.
In this article, we'll explore some fun facts and useful tips about chocolate ice cream, so that you can enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Serving size and calorie count
As we mentioned earlier, 2/3 cup (85 g) of chocolate ice cream contains approximately 100 calories. However, serving sizes can vary depending on the brand and type of ice cream you're eating, so it's always a good idea to check the label to get an accurate idea of how many calories you're consuming. It's easy to accidentally eat too much ice cream in one sitting, especially if you're enjoying it as a dessert after a big meal. To avoid overindulging, try using a smaller bowl and spoon, or sharing a pint of ice cream with a friend.
Fat and sugar content
As we mentioned earlier, 2/3 cup (85 g) of chocolate ice cream contains about 6 grams of fat and 14 grams of sugar. While these numbers may seem high, they're not necessarily unhealthy in moderation. The key is to be mindful of how much ice cream you're eating, and to balance it out with healthy foods throughout the day. If you're concerned about the fat and sugar content in chocolate ice cream, there are a few alternatives you can try, such as frozen yogurt or sorbet. Some brands even offer low-fat or sugar-free versions of their ice cream, though you'll want to be sure to check the labels to make sure they're not loaded with artificial sweeteners or other additives.
Nutrient breakdown
While chocolate ice cream may not be a superfood, it does contain a few key nutrients that your body needs. For example, it's a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. It also contains a small amount of protein and potassium. Of course, the nutrient content in ice cream can vary depending on the brand and type you're eating. Some brands may offer ice cream with added protein or other nutrients, so be sure to check the labels if you're looking to boost your nutrient intake with your dessert.
Potential allergens
If you have allergies or food sensitivities, it's important to be aware of the potential allergens in chocolate ice cream. The main ingredients in ice cream are typically milk, cream, and sugar, but some brands may also include additional ingredients like nuts or soy. If you're not sure whether a particular brand of ice cream contains allergens that you need to avoid, be sure to check the label or contact the manufacturer directly.
Health benefits of chocolate
Believe it or not, chocolate actually has a few health benefits! Dark chocolate in particular is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. It may also help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. While chocolate ice cream may not provide all of these benefits (especially if it's made with a lot of sugar and additives), it's still a delicious way to enjoy the taste of chocolate while getting a few health benefits at the same time.
Recommended portions
When it comes to indulging in chocolate ice cream, moderation is key. The American Heart Association recommends that adults limit their intake of added sugars to no more than 36 grams per day for men and 25 grams per day for women. Based on the sugar content in 2/3 cup (85 g) of chocolate ice cream, you should aim to eat no more than one serving per day if you're a woman, or one and a half servings per day if you're a man. Of course, you can adjust these recommendations based on your personal health goals and dietary needs.
Alternatives to chocolate ice cream
If you're looking for a lighter or healthier alternative to chocolate ice cream, there are a few options you can try. For example, frozen yogurt is a popular alternative that typically contains fewer calories and less fat than traditional ice cream. Sorbet, which is made with fruit juice instead of milk or cream, is another option if you're looking for a dairy-free dessert. You could also try making your own chocolate ice cream at home using healthier ingredients like unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This way, you can control exactly what goes into your dessert and make sure it's as healthy (or indulgent) as you want it to be.
Popular brands and flavors
If you're a chocolate ice cream lover, you probably already have your favorite brands and flavors picked out. However, if you're new to the world of chocolate ice cream or looking to try something new, here are a few popular brands and flavors you might want to check out:
- Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie
- Talenti Double Dark Chocolate Gelato
- Breyers Chocolate Chip
- Haagen-Dazs Chocolate
Serving suggestions and recipes
Chocolate ice cream is delicious on its own, but it's also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of desserts and recipes. Here are a few serving suggestions and recipe ideas to try:
- Top your ice cream with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce
- Make a homemade ice cream sandwich by sandwiching a scoop of ice cream between two cookies
- Add ice cream to a milkshake for an extra-decadent treat
Vegan and lactose-free options
If you're vegan, lactose intolerant, or have other dietary restrictions, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of chocolate ice cream options available for you too! Here are a few vegan and lactose-free ice creams you might want to try:
- So Delicious Dairy Free Cashew Milk Chocolate
- Ben & Jerry's Non-Dairy Chocolate Fudge Brownie
- Tofutti Dairy-Free Chocolate
- Breyers Lactose Free Chocolate
Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first.
5 FAQ about 2/3 cup of Chocolate Ice Cream
1. How many calories are in 2/3 cup of Chocolate Ice Cream?
2/3 cup (85 g) of Chocolate Ice Cream contains 100 calories.
2. Is Chocolate Ice Cream healthy?
Chocolate Ice Cream is not considered a healthy food due to its high sugar, fat, and calorie content. However, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
3. How much saturated fat is in 2/3 cup of Chocolate Ice Cream?
2/3 cup (85 g) of Chocolate Ice Cream contains about 4.5 grams of saturated fat, which is 23% of the recommended daily intake.
4. Can Chocolate Ice Cream be part of a weight loss diet?
While Chocolate Ice Cream is not low in calories, it can be incorporated into a weight loss diet as an occasional treat. Moderation is key, and portion control is important.
5. What are some healthy alternatives to Chocolate Ice Cream?
Some healthy alternatives to Chocolate Ice Cream include frozen yogurt, sorbet, and homemade fruit sorbets. These options are typically lower in calories and fat than ice cream and can be made with natural ingredients.