A summer without ice cream…doesn’t even exist! Every year new versions of this favorite refreshing summer dessert appear. Among them there are 0% or even 0% + 0%products, which with the right marketing become increasingly delicious to consume. But how much “healthier” are these ice creams? Is it really a better choice than the classics, or is the right advertising leading to wrong conclusions?
First of all, what does 0% and 0% + 0% mean?
When an ice cream is 0% it means that it is:
either sugar-free
either fat-free
either contains less sugar than classic ice cream
either contains less fat than classic ice cream
When an ice cream is 0% + 0% it means that:
either it contains no sugar and fat
or it contains less sugar and less fat than classic ice cream
In any case, it is important to check the food label to verify what the manufacturer means.
In the case of ice creams with zero or low sugar content, sugar is replaced by various sweeteners, such as aspartame, stevia, maltitol, etc.
Is it better than “regular” ice cream?
The answer here is it depends.
In cases of people with health problems such as diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, etc., an ice cream with low fat and/or sugar may be a good alternative. Also, if ice cream is consumed frequently enough, its “lighter” version can help control energy intake, and therefore weight control. However, if ice cream is consumed occasionally, even a “classic” ice cream will not significantly affect either the person’s health or their weight.
Finally, attention should be paid because there are quite a few who tend to consume a larger amount of “light” ice cream, ultimately leading to the same and/or worse results as consuming a “classic” ice cream.
What to look for when choosing ice cream?
Pay attention to the nutritional labels. Just because an ice cream is 0% or 0% + 0% does not always mean that it is much better in quality or energy than a “classic” ice cream. Look at the energy (calories), sugars, saturated fats, ingredients and choose accordingly.
Enjoy consciously! If you prefer “regular” ice cream, eat it without guilt, but be aware of the quantity.
In Conclusion
0% or 0% + 0% ice creams can be useful alternatives, especially for people with specific needs or in cases of frequent consumption. However, they are not always nutritionally “superior”. 0% does not mean “calorie-free” or necessarily “healthier.” So read the labels, evaluate the ingredients, and choose what gives you real satisfaction, in moderation and without guilt. The goal is not only to make the healthiest choice, but also to enjoy it.