Ice cream, soft serve, chocolate

 Category: Dairy & Egg Products

 Nutrition Highlights 

 Serving Size
 Calories

191

 Nutrient
% Daily Value*
  Total Fat 11 g
14 %
     MUFA 3.0 g
     PUFA 0.4 g
     Saturated Fat 6.4 g   High
32 %
  Cholesterol 78 mg
26 %
  Sodium 52 mg
2 %
  Protein 3.5 g
7 %
  Total Carbohydrate 19 g
7 %
     Total Sugars 18 g   High
     Dietary Fiber 0.6 g
2 %
  Water 51 g
  Minerals --
     Calcium 113 mg   High
9 %
     Potassium 152 mg
3 %
     Zinc 0.4 mg
4 %
     Selenium 2.6 mcg
5 %
     Iron 0.2 mg
1 %
     Magnesium 10 mg
2 %
     Phosphorus 100 mg
8 %
     Copper 0.03 mg
3 %
     Manganese 0.0 mg
0 %
  Vitamins --
     Vitamin D 0.6 mcg   High
3 %
     Vitamin E 0.5 mg
3 %
     Niacin / B3 0.08 mg
1 %
     Pantothenic acid / B5 0.4 mg
9 %
     Vitamin B6 0.04 mg
2 %
     Vitamin A 139 mcg   High
15 %
     Vitamin C 0.7 mg
1 %
     Thiamin / B1 0.04 mg
4 %
     Riboflavin / B2 0.2 mg
12 %
     Folate / B9 7.7 mcg
2 %
     Vitamin B12 0.4 mcg
18 %
     Vitamin K 0.8 mcg
1 %

*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 (%)
 Fat 101 (52.7%)
 Carbohydrate 76 (40.0%)
 Protein 14 (7.4%)
Total 191 (100%)

 Serving: 0 cup [86g]
 Composition 
  Nutrient Weight g (%)
 Water 51 (59.8%)
 Carbohydrate 19 (22.2%)
 Fat 11 (13.0%)
 Protein 3.5 (4.1%)
 Ash 0.8 (0.9%)
Total 86 (100%)

 Serving: 0 cup [86g]

 Benefits 

  • Provides calcium which is important for bone health

  • Contains carbohydrates in the form of sugar that can be an energy source

  • The cocoa in chocolate ice cream contains antioxidants

  • Soft serve ice cream is lower in fat than regular ice cream

  • Can be a source of vitamin B12 and riboflavin depending on ingredients used

 Risks 

  • High in sugar and calories. Ice cream is a dessert food and eating too much can contribute to weight gain and obesity

  • May contain artificial colors and flavors. Some ice creams contain artificial colors and flavors which are best consumed in moderation

  • Lacks nutrients. Ice cream itself is low in nutrients and vitamins. It should not replace more nutritious foods in a balanced diet

  • Dairy may cause issues. The dairy in ice cream could cause digestive issues like gas, bloating or diarrhea for some people with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivity

  • Chocolate has caffeine. The chocolate in chocolate ice cream contains caffeine which could interfere with sleep for some individuals if consumed close to bedtime


 Additional Information 

Ice cream, soft serve, chocolate, is a delicious treat enjoyed by many people around the world. While it is undeniably tempting and satisfying, it is important to be aware of its nutritional benefits and risks.

Nutritional Benefits:
1. Calcium: Ice cream, especially soft serve, is typically made with milk or cream, which are excellent sources of calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as supporting proper muscle function and nerve transmission.

2. Energy: Ice cream is a high-calorie food due to its sugar and fat content. While excessive calorie intake can be detrimental, ice cream can provide a quick source of energy when needed, making it suitable for individuals with high energy demands, such as athletes or those engaging in physically demanding activities.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the recipe and ingredients used, ice cream may contain small amounts of certain vitamins and minerals. These include vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as minerals like phosphorus and potassium. However, the levels of these nutrients are generally low compared to other food sources.

Nutritional Risks:
1. Added Sugars: One of the primary concerns with ice cream, especially chocolate-flavored varieties, is its high sugar content. Excessive consumption of added sugars can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. It is essential to moderate your intake of ice cream to avoid these risks.

2. Saturated Fat: Ice cream, particularly soft serve, often contains significant amounts of saturated fat. Consuming high levels of saturated fat can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. It is crucial to be mindful of portion sizes and choose lower-fat alternatives or enjoy ice cream as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence.

3. Allergies and Intolerances: Ice cream typically contains ingredients such as milk, cream, and chocolate, which can pose risks for individuals with allergies or lactose intolerance. It is important to read labels carefully and opt for alternative options if necessary.

Tips for Moderation and Healthy Choices:
1. Portion Control: Enjoying ice cream in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet. Stick to recommended serving sizes and avoid excessive indulgence.

2. Choose Lower-Fat Options: Opt for reduced-fat or light ice cream varieties, as they typically contain less saturated fat and calories compared to regular ice cream.

3. Homemade Alternatives: Consider making your own ice cream at home using healthier ingredients such as low-fat milk or yogurt, natural sweeteners, and fresh fruits. This allows you to control the amount of added sugars and fats.

4. Pair with Nutrient-Rich Foods: Enjoy ice cream as part of a balanced meal or snack by combining it with nutrient-rich foods like fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds. This can add additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber to your treat.

In conclusion, while ice cream, soft serve, chocolate, can provide certain nutritional benefits such as calcium and energy, it is important to be mindful of its high sugar and saturated fat content. Moderation, portion control, and making healthier choices can help you enjoy this treat while maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.



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