Ice cream, light, soft serve, chocolate
Category: Dairy & Egg Products
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
420
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 277 (65.8%) |
| Fat | 99 (23.6%) |
| Protein | 40 (9.5%) |
| Total | 420 (100%) |
Serving: 1 medium [298g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 205 (68.9%) |
| Carbohydrate | 69 (23.2%) |
| Fat | 11 (3.7%) |
| Protein | 10 (3.4%) |
| Ash | 2.6 (0.9%) |
| Total | 298 (100%) |
Serving: 1 medium [298g]
Benefits
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Provides calcium which is important for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. The calcium in ice cream comes from dairy
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Contains protein that helps build and repair tissues throughout the body. The protein in ice cream comes from dairy
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Light and soft serve varieties are lower in fat and calories compared to regular ice cream which can help with weight management as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle
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Chocolate flavor contains antioxidants from cocoa that may help protect cells from damage
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Dairy contains vitamin D which is important for bone and immune health. Vitamin D is added to milk used to make ice cream
Risks
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High in sugar and calories. Light ice cream is lower in fat but not necessarily lower in sugar which provides empty calories
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May contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame which some research has linked to health issues in large amounts
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Chocolate flavoring adds more calories and fat compared to other flavors like vanilla or fruit
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Soft serve has a higher air content than hard-packed ice cream so it is lower in protein and other nutrients
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Portion sizes of ice cream are often large leading to overconsumption of calories in one sitting
Additional Information
Ice cream, light, soft serve, chocolate is a delectable frozen treat that offers both nutritional benefits and risks. Let's delve into the primary and secondary attributes of this particular food product to understand its overall impact on our health.
The primary attribute of this ice cream is its lightness. Light ice creams are typically lower in fat and calories compared to regular ice creams. This can be beneficial for individuals who are watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Light ice creams often achieve their reduced fat content by using lower-fat dairy products or alternative ingredients, such as skim milk or milk substitutes. By consuming light ice cream, individuals can indulge in their favorite dessert while reducing their overall calorie intake.
The secondary attribute of this ice cream is that it is soft serve. Soft serve ice cream has a smoother texture compared to regular ice cream, making it easier to consume. This attribute can be particularly appealing for individuals with dental issues or those who prefer a creamier mouthfeel. However, it is important to note that the softness of this ice cream does not directly affect its nutritional value.
Lastly, the flavor attribute of this ice cream is chocolate. Chocolate ice cream is a popular choice due to its rich and indulgent taste. While the flavor itself does not have any specific nutritional benefits, chocolate does contain antioxidants known as flavonoids. These compounds have been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation. However, it is important to consume chocolate ice cream in moderation, as excessive intake can lead to increased calorie and sugar consumption.
Despite the aforementioned benefits, it is crucial to consider the potential risks associated with this food product. Ice cream, even light and soft serve varieties, is typically high in added sugars. Excessive sugar intake has been linked to various health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dental problems. Individuals should be mindful of their overall sugar intake and limit their consumption of ice cream as part of a balanced diet.
Additionally, while light ice creams may have reduced fat content, they can still contain artificial additives, stabilizers, and sweeteners to enhance flavor and texture. These additives may not provide any nutritional benefits and could potentially have adverse effects on certain individuals, such as those with food sensitivities or allergies.
In conclusion, light, soft serve, chocolate ice cream offers the enjoyment of a frozen dessert with some potential nutritional benefits. Its lightness can be advantageous for those watching their calorie intake, and the smooth texture can cater to specific preferences. However, it is important to be mindful of the added sugars and potential artificial additives present in this food product. Moderation is key when consuming ice cream, and individuals should strive to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods.