The real scoop on what's inside ice cream?

Let’s chat about our beloved ice cream. 🍦 It's the ultimate summer treat, right? But we've got to get real about what's lurking in some of those delicious scoops.

The other day, I slipped up. It was hot, I was out, and I craved ice cream like nobody’s business. I found myself at a food court and caved to a vanilla soft serve cone. From the first taste, I knew I’d made a mistake. It was cold, sweet, and kind of oily. What kind of nasty ingredients are in that stuff anyway?

Many store-bought and fast-food ice creams are filled with harmful ingredients that can sabotage your health. Here are some of the worst offenders:

❌ Carrageenan - Used to make ice cream smooth, but with zero nutritional benefit and a potential link to cancer. It causes inflammation, leading to various health problems.

❌ High Fructose Corn Syrup - Sweet and cheap, but it’s a major player in obesity and insulin resistance. It spikes your blood sugar, making it tough to burn fat.

❌ Artificial Colors and Flavors - They make ice cream look and taste irresistible, but can cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity. And LOL if you ever want to surprise yourself about what could be in those “natural flavours” mentioned on food labels, just do a Google search. The term “natural flavours” can be used for some pretty nasty stuff!

❌ Preservatives - Ingredients like sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate keep ice cream fresh but disrupt gut health and cause inflammation.

❌ Partially Hydrogenated Oils - These trans fats are hidden in the creamy texture of your ice cream, leading to heart problems and an oily mouthfeel.

Now, don’t worry, I’m not saying we should never eat ice cream again. It’s one of my favorite summer treats too (so realistically I will never give it up completely!) What I’m saying is to be more selective. Instead of grabbing whatever brand is on sale, let’s look for options free from harmful ingredients.

Tips for Healthier Ice Cream Choices

1. Read the Labels: Avoid ice creams with high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, and preservatives.
2. Go Organic: Organic brands often use fewer synthetic additives.
3. Choose Simple Flavors: Vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate with recognizable ingredients are safer bets.
4. DIY Ice Cream: In my home, we call this “nice cream”. Make your own to control exactly what goes into it.

Our bodies are our vehicles through life, and we need to fuel them to thrive. Next time you crave that sweet, creamy goodness, reach for brands that prioritize natural, toxin-free ingredients. Your body will thank you, and you’ll still enjoy every delicious bite. 🍓🍨

Let’s treat ourselves without the health sabotage! We've got the power to make choices that support our health instead of harm it. 💪✨