How to Eat Healthy at an Ice Cream Store

The whole family wants to go to the ice cream store and, of course, they want you to go along; but you’re trying to resist high calorie treats like ice cream, especially now that you’ve made the commitment to lose those last five pounds. Should you give in to temptation and go along or stay home and snack on a bowl of sliced veggies? Fortunately, you don’t have to stay miss out on the a trip to the ice cream store when there are ways to enjoy a tasty, frozen treat without blowing your diet. Here’s how to eat healthy at an ice cream store.

Choose the Right Cone

One way to reduce the damage you do at an ice cream store is to select the right type of cone. A large waffle cone has around 120 calories and 23 grams of carbs. When you throw in the ice cream, you’ll have around a 400 calorie treat. Be smart and choose the small wafer or cake cone instead which only has around 17 calories. Even better, ask for your ice cream in a bowl and skip the cone entirely.

Ask About Lower Calorie Ice Cream Options

Many ice cream stores including big name chains like Baskin Robbins and Carvel offer low-fat and sugar-free ice cream options. Although fat-free and lower fat ice cream may have fewer calories than the sugar-free versions, they’re often loaded with sugar which may not be a good option if you’re watching your carb intake. The calorie content of fat-free and sugar-free ice creams at most chains varies between 90 and 140 calories, significantly less than regular ice cream. This gives you a sensible way to splurge without feeling guilty later. Another option is to order yogurt or sorbet which are usually lower in fat and calories than regular ice cream.

Watch Portion Sizes

The calories listed for the various types of ice cream offered at ice cream stores is usually for one serving. In most cases, ice cream parlors overfill the cup so that you end up with one-and-a-half to two servings, almost doubling the calories. One way to resolve this problem is to ask for a kiddy cup instead which is usually closer to a single serving in size.

Choose the right Toppings

Resist the urge to pile your ice cream high with candy and nuts. The calories can add up quickly. If you feel you need a topping, choose fresh fruit instead, but avoid fruit that’s in sweetened syrup.

If carefully chosen and eaten in moderation, ice cream can be one of the least unhealthy splurges. There’s no need to completely give up these tasty, sweet treat that’s such a summertime staple. Choose correctly and enjoy every bite.