This Summer's Delicious and Nutritious Treat: Ice Cream

Ice cream, in addition to its wonderful taste, contains B1, B2 and B12 vitamins, vitamin A, magnesium and phosphorus, as well as calcium and protein, which is why it is considered one of the healthiest desserts. Nur Ecem Baydı Ozman, Nutrition and Diet Specialist at Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital, stated that ice cream, being the lightest dessert option during summer months, has many benefits when consumed in moderation. She said: "However, ice cream should not be consumed too frequently due to its sugar content. People who do not have diabetes and maintain a healthy weight can eat 2-3 ice cream scoops, 2 scoops each, two to three times a week. Additionally, since flavored ice creams may contain coloring or flavoring agents, preferring plain ice cream can be much more beneficial." Nutrition and Diet Specialist at Acıbadem Kozyatağı Hospital Nur Ecem Baydı Ozman shared 5 benefits of ice cream and 5 important points to consider when consuming it.

• It helps balance blood sugar more easily.
• It becomes a healthy snack alternative.
• It helps meet calcium requirements.
• It contributes to recovery after tonsil surgery.
• Ice cream is a complete source of happiness!

5 Important Rules to Follow When Consuming Ice Cream

• Although it may seem like the lightest of desserts, ice cream contains a considerable amount of sugar. For this reason, if possible, do not leave ice cream consumption for evening hours. Consume it during daytime hours and try to balance the calories you consume through physical activities afterwards.
• Do not prefer ice cream in a cone. This way, you protect yourself from a certain amount of carbohydrates you would get from the cone.
• If you want to benefit from ice cream as a light dessert, do not add it alongside or on top of other desserts. If you consume it this way, remember that you will suffer more harm than benefit from the ice cream.
• Do not consume it on an empty stomach. Because when you eat it while hungry, 1-2 scoops of ice cream may not be enough. Make sure to consume it 1-2 hours after a meal containing protein, when your blood sugar is relatively balanced. This way, both the amount of ice cream you will consume decreases, and you prevent hypoglycemia or sugar cravings that you might experience afterwards.
• Avoid added flavored syrups, chocolate, hazelnuts, peanuts and similar toppings. This way, you protect ice cream, which could be a light dessert option, from becoming a high-calorie dessert that could harm you in the long term.