What is healthier: frozen yogurt or ice cream?
Frozen yogurt is a cold and refreshing treat, and it seems it might be quite healthy: it includes yogurt with probiotic bacteria and fruits with vitamins. So why should one approach it with caution? And is it indeed more recommended than ice cream?
On such hot days, one sometimes craves a sweet treat. Frozen yogurt is undoubtedly tasty and refreshing - but can it meet the criteria of a healthy snack? And how is it different from ice cream and popsicles?
What is frozen yogurt actually?
Frozen yogurt is a frozen product based on yogurt with a taste and texture that resemble ice cream, but it usually has a different nutritional composition - especially in terms of fat and calorie content. The addition of yogurt, in principle, is a plus. Yogurt is based on fermented milk, and during the fermentation process, probiotic bacteria from the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus groups are created, which are associated with the prevention of illness. However, it is not certain that the frozen yogurt from which the dessert is made contains these bacteria.
Health benefits:
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Less fat and calories: compared to other sweets, assuming, of course, that fruits are added to the mixture rather than chocolates and candies.
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Relatively high protein content: contributes to a feeling of satiety.
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Possibility of healthy toppings: such as fresh fruits, nuts, and almonds.
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Probiotic bacteria (in some products): contribute to the balance of the digestive system.
What should one be wary of?
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Not always diet-friendly: additions of sauces, syrups, granola, or cookies can double the amount of calories and sugar.
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Check the ingredients: some products contain stabilizers, added sugars, and artificial substances.
Recommended personal portion: a small cup (about 100–120 grams) with measured toppings can be a great compromise between a summer treat and maintaining health.
Frozen yogurt vs. ice cream - what is the difference?
| Component | Frozen Yogurt (100g) | Cream Ice Cream (100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 100–130 | 200–250 |
| Fat | 1.5–4g | 10–15g |
| Sugars | 15–20g | 20–25g |
| Protein | 3–5g | 2–3g |
Of course, the values vary between manufacturers and brands, and flavored frozen yogurt may contain added sugar, syrups, or chocolate that spike the calories and reduce the health value.
«When you want to enjoy without giving up - prefer natural-flavored frozen yogurt with the addition of fresh fruit (like mango or frozen strawberries), a little chia seeds, or a spoonful of coconut flakes. This way you will get a summer, refreshing, colorful, and healthier dessert», — says Dr. Sigal Frishman, national dietitian of Clalit hospitals.
You can, of course, also make frozen yogurt at home from yogurt that definitely contains probiotic bacteria and additions of fresh fruits, dark chocolate, and nuts. Children can even be partners in the preparation and eating of a healthier snack.
