Ice cream, a timeless treat cherished by many, brings the joy of sweetness and cold creaminess on a warm day. However, it’s crucial to recognize the impact of ice cream on our sugar levels and waistline. Traditional ice creams often contain significant amounts of added sugars, which can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by crashes that leave us craving more. These rapid fluctuations in blood sugar can contribute to overeating and weight gain, particularly around the waistline, where visceral fat tends to accumulate. Fortunately, the dessert landscape has evolved to offer healthier alternatives that cater to our cravings without compromising our well-being.
We spoke with health expert, Mahmoud Abdelaziz, to learn about which type of ice cream can help shed pounds. He revealed that low-glycemic frozen yogurt is your best choice here! Read on to learn more.
Low-Glycemic Impact Frozen Yogurt
Low-glycemic impact frozen yogurt offers a delicious way to enjoy a frozen treat while keeping an eye on your blood sugar levels. Unlike traditional sugary desserts, this frozen yogurt is made with ingredients that have a slower effect on blood sugar, helping to prevent rapid spikes and crashes.
Abdelaziz gives a full breakdown on how this type of ice cream can help. "The choice of ingredients in this frozen yogurt, such as low-fat Greek yogurt and natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, results in a low glycemic index. Low-GI foods release sugar into the bloodstream gradually, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. The presence of protein in Greek yogurt helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose. Feeling full and satisfied can lead to reduced overall calorie intake and potential weight loss around the waistline. The careful selection of ingredients aims to provide a balanced nutritional profile, which can contribute to healthier eating habits and, consequently, a smaller waistline over time."
The Bottom Line
Some examples of these ice creams are Stevia-Sweetened Frozen Yogurt, a low-fat Greek yogurt and sweetened with stevia, this frozen yogurt option boasts a low glycemic index. Its gradual sugar release helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and Berry Medley Swirl, a fusion of low-fat Greek yogurt swirled with a blend of mixed berries, sweetened with minimal natural sugars for a refreshing and diabetes-friendly treat.
As Abdelaziz highlights, the thoughtful selection of ingredients, such as low-fat Greek yogurt and natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, contributes to a low glycemic index. This choice ensures a gradual and gentle sugar release, preventing rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes that are often associated with traditional sugary desserts. The added benefit of protein from Greek yogurt aids in regulating blood sugar absorption, promoting a feeling of fullness and potentially aiding in waistline management through reduced calorie intake.
