Registered Dietitians dish out their favorite healthy ice cream toppings in this post to help you make more informed choices. Did any of your favorites make the list?
Are you trying to make your favorite ice cream a little bit healthier? Did you make a homemade ice cream like one of these Ninja Creami Recipes, and you're wondering what are the best healthy ice cream toppings to use?
In this article, we ask nutrition experts what their favorite healthy ice cream toppings are. Some might surprise you!
Ice cream is a favorite treat that many people enjoy as a sweet escape from stress and a reward of happiness. And adding extra toppings on it makes it more appetizing and satisfactory.
However, traditional ice cream toppings majority preferences such as syrups, candies, and whipped cream often come with drawbacks which can contribute to health issues when consumed in excess.
Traditional Toppings
Sugars
Consuming excessive amounts of sugar can lead to a range of negative health effects.
Research highlights several side effects associated with high sugar intake, including an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and dental problems. Excessive sugar consumption can also contribute to metabolic syndrome and negatively impact liver health.
Syrups and Candies intake are associated with weight gain and insulin resistance with their high calorie and unhealthy fat content.
Unhealthy fats like omega-6 fatty acids
Excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids can increase the risk of health issues.
This article elaborates that Omega-6 fatty acids produce potent pro-inflammatory eicosanoids which can contribute to inflammation. This can contribute to the formation of blood clots and arterial plaque, exacerbate allergic reactions and inflammatory disorders. Also, a hyperactive endocannabinoid system can cause increased appetite, food intake, and potentially promote weight gain or obesity.
High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) consumption is associated with obesity and inflammatory responses.
Healthy Ice Cream Toppings
Fortunately, ice cream experiences can be elevated with nutritious and delicious toppings that not only taste great but also offer various health benefits.
Who doesn’t love a scoop of creamy, delicious ice cream?
Healthy and Delicious Toppings
Let's explore how simple toppings like spices, fruit and nuts chips can take your favorite frozen treat to the next level.
Nuts
Nuts are a great choice for a healthier ice cream topping. They provide extra protein, healthy fats, and a delightful crunch that can be satisfying. Almonds, pecans, walnuts, and pistachio nuts are some good options.
"Nuts are a great ice cream topping. This is because nuts provide protein and healthy fats. Adding some nuts to ice cream is a fun way to sneak in some extra nutrients and to make it a filling treat."
- Alyssa Smolen, MS RDN CDN., NJ based content creator
Research shows that nuts can support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases depending on the bioavailability and ingested amount. The kernels are rich in fat (MUFA and PUFA), fibers, proteins, vitamins E and B, minerals copper, calcium, magnesium and diverse bioactive compounds: phytosterols, polyphenols that are used as a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
"I love walnuts on my ice cream, especially with vanilla or chocolate soft serve, two of my favorites! It is a perfect way pump-up those heart and brain healthy omega 3 fatty acids along with protein, magnesium, fiber plus that added crunch for this favorite family treat!"
- Barbara Baron, MS,RDN FAND, The Family Meals Dietitian
Explore these delightful crunch: Ninja Creami Pistachio Protein Ice Cream.
Dark chocolate
Another wholesome topping option that not only adds a rich, rewarding flavor but also comes with health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, dark chocolate has been linked to improved heart health and better blood flow.
"This is a rich and decadent dark chocolate sauce made with dates! The dates act as a natural sweetener and provide some extra fiber and antioxidants. Serve over your favorite ice cream with some fresh fruit for a healthier alternative to traditional store-bought chocolate sauce!"
-Alex Evink, MS, RD
Learn to make your own healthy chocolate bar which this keto chocolate bar recipe.
This study on Dark chocolate shows that it provides a range of health benefits primarily due to its rich flavonoid content, which supports cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and potentially lowering blood pressure. It enhances cognitive functions such as spatial memory and executive function with benefits observable up to two hours after eating, particularly in older adults.
Also, it positively impacts visual contrast sensitivity and coronary circulation, making it a valuable addition to a health-conscious diet. Overall, incorporating dark chocolate into your diet can offer both immediate and long-term advantages for cardiovascular and cognitive health.
"Mini, semi-sweet chocolate chips are the perfect healthy ice cream topping. They provide antioxidants from cocoa and are lower in fat than milk chocolate or "chocolate shell". Mini semi-sweet chips give you just the right amount of chocolate and crunch for your cone."
- Lisa Andrews, MEd, RD, LD
Feeling chocolatey, try this homemade Chocolate Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Fresh Berries
An excellent topping option. Berries like blueberries and raspberries are packed with nutrients and their sweet tart blends well with the creaminess of ice cream. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help with digestion and blood sugar control and contribute to overall health.
"Fresh raspberries are a perfect healthy ice cream topping. The tart sweetness of the raspberries pairs really well with ice cream. Raspberries make a healthy ice cream topping because they are high in fiber which can help fill you up, keep you satisfied and help with blood sugar control. Plus, adding raspberries to desserts always seems a little fancy and decadent to me. Who doesn’t want that experience when eating ice cream?"
- Meggie Connelly MS, RDN, LDN
A research article describes blueberries as “super-foods” due to the significant health benefits primarily from the high levels of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. This research shows that even a small amount of berries in a daily consumption can positively affect cardiovascular health, glucose regulation, and cognitive function. Additionally, blueberries have anti-inflammatory properties and promote good metabolic function, which are crucial for healthy aging and reducing the risk of dementia. Overall, incorporating blueberries into one's diet can support a range of health benefits.
"Mixed Berries are a perfect topping to ice cream to add some fiber with antioxidants. This helps to get adequate fiber for gut health & the antioxidants help reduce inflammation in the body. These are great to add additional nutrients in with a tasty cold treat!"
- Nicole Ibarra, RD, LD
Berries topping on ice cream add a burst of flavor and vibrant color. Also, offer a nutritious boost with antioxidants and vitamins, making them a delicious and healthful choice.
"Mixed berry chia jam makes a delicious ice cream topping! It elevates the nutrition by providing a punch of antioxidants and fiber from the berries and chia seeds combined."
- Elena Usdenski, Certified Fertility & Prenatal Dietitian
Dive into these excellent option: Raspberry cheesecake ice cream
Coffee
An unexpected yet incredible ice cream topping. It’s packed with antioxidants which enhance cognitive function by improving alertness and concentration. Using a sprinkle of finely ground coffee or a drizzle of coffee syrup add a rich flavor and health benefits to your ice cream.
"Ground espresso is an unusual but healthy ice cream topping. It contains healthy antioxidants and can boost energy levels. It also tastes great when paired with creamy ice cream. A great addition to ice cream is nuts including pecan, almonds, walnuts, or peanuts. Nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fats and give ice cream a delightful crunchy and nutty flavor."
- Amy Beney MS RDN CDCES
Study suggests that coffee may lower biomarkers associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to improved overall health. Coffee provides nutritional benefits due to its high content of bioactive compounds, including chlorogenic acids, which are potent antioxidants. These compounds help protect against oxidative damage to proteins and lipids.cCoffee's antioxidants may help alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in the development of cardiovascular conditions. Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic complications, such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
Discover these incredible flavor: Coffee Ice Cream
Fresh Fruits
A natural sweetness and nutritional booster topping option. Fruit toppings stand out due to its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors and nutritional benefits that can elevate the ice cream into new heights. Fruits like bananas, strawberries, and mangoes are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
"I love sliced strawberries on top of ice cream with some dark chocolate drizzled on top. This will give an extra little dose of fiber and antioxidants to help boost heart health."
- Heidi McIndoo MS, RD
FoodieMomRD
Research shows that strawberries offer several health benefits, particularly in cardiovascular health. Strawberries are rich in bioactive compounds like polyphenols and anthocyanins that improves antioxidant defenses and promotes better vascular function. incorporating strawberries into the diet can improve lipid profiles, including lower levels of total and LDL cholesterol, and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, particularly in individuals with conditions like high cholesterol and obesity
Discover these natural sweetness option: Ninja Creami Strawberry Protein Ice Cream
"I love making fruit compote for an ice cream topping. It is a great way to use up any fruit that is close to going bad and can reduce food waste. I usually use strawberries or other berries and cook them in a pot with a little water until soft and 1-2 teaspoon of sugar so it is slightly sweet. It is a much healthier alternative to a traditional ice cream sundae from an ice cream shop or store-bought sauce."
- - Christina Iaboni, RD
An article states bananas are rich in essential nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, vitamins A and C, and potassium, which aid in blood glucose regulation and boost exercise endurance. Bananas are also packed with antioxidants such as carotenoids, phenols, and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and may prevent diseases like cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and cancer. Their anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammatory markers and support overall health. Overall, incorporating bananas into your diet offers a range of health benefits.
Discover these natural option: Protein Banana Ice Cream | Ninja Creami
If you're looking for more easy and delicious recipes, check out my Healthy Ice Cream Recipes Ebook. You'll find 26 recipes, including protein ice cream recipes, dairy-free recipes, and recipes without gums and pudding mixes.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Cinnamon and Nutmeg are amazing and impressively healthy option. Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg add an aromatic kick and offer a warm and cozy flavor that enhance the taste of ice cream.These spices also provide health benefits, including antioxidant support and digestive aid.
"Sprinkling cinnamon and nutmeg on your ice cream adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements a variety of flavors, from vanilla to spiced chai. These spices also offer health benefits, like antioxidant support and digestive aid, making your dessert both delicious and nutritious."
- Julie Lichtman RD LDN
Research highlights that cinnamon offers several health benefits due to its rich composition of biologically active compounds. Its high antioxidant helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially aiding in the management of chronic diseases and improving overall cellular health. Additionally, cinnamon contains compounds such as cinnamaldehyde that exhibit neuroprotective effects, potentially aiding in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s by mitigating oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties support overall immune health and may help in managing infections.
Add these spices to this ice cream base: Ninja Creami Vanilla Ice Cream
Coconut
Another versatile and nutritious topping option. It provides healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and hormone production. Whether you use shredded coconut or coconut flakes, it adds a delightful texture and flavor to your ice cream.
Study updates coconut is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and phenolic compounds, which provide antioxidant properties. Health benefits include improved cognitive function and a more favorable lipid profile. Also offers antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects from its water and fiber.
Feast into these versatile option: Ninja Creami Coconut Ice Cream
The Best Healthy Ice Cream Topping
To wrap up, the best healthy ice cream toppings is as diverse as your taste buds. Whether you prefer dark chocolate over fresh fruits and nuts, each topping offers a unique flair to your frozen treat.
The right topping can elevate your ice cream experience and add a personal style. So, don't hesitate to experiment - because every great ice cream deserves the best toppings!
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