As we move further into the heat of summer Texans are constantly looking for ways to cool down. This is why summer one of the most popular times of year for ice cream. In fact, July has even been declared national ice cream month! Our love for ice cream is apparent: the average American consumes an estimated 23 pounds of ice cream per year. With statistics like that, it’s no wonder that so many of us struggle to maintain a healthy weight.
While no single food in particular causes weight gain, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying sweet treats. That can be difficult when a typical restaurant dessert can set you back 500 to 1000 calories.
Check out the calorie counts for a few popular indulgences:
1 cup of regular ice cream contain approximately 520 calories A slice of cheesecake contain about 710 calorie A Sprinkles cupcake contains between 450-500 calorie depending on the flavor An 8 oz. serving of frozen yogurt can contain up to 300 calories WITHOUT toppings
Since portion control is the name of the game let’s turn our attention to our star player: gelato. Traditional gelato is served in a small 3.5 oz. cup, so it’s easy to keep your portions in check. Gelato is made from rich, flavorful ingredients, so even just a tiny portion is satisfying. A typical serving of gelato is lower in fat than traditional ice cream, and contains between 150-200 calories per serving compared to the whopping 520 calories per serving ice cream dolls out.
While it’s not hard to argue that Gelato is healthier than ice cream, Botolino Gelato Artigianale in lower Greenville has taken things a step further. Their gelato is made from organic milk which provides nutritional benefits to you, and more humane treatment for the cows used in production. Organic milk is known to contain a higher amount of heart healthy omega 3 fatty acids and a lower amount of saturated fat. Additionally, milk is an excellent source of both Vitamin D and calcium which are essential for bone health. If you are allergic or intolerant to dairy, Botolino Gelato Artigianale even offers dairy-free options like their Strawberry Sorbetto.
The nutritional information for 3.5 oz. serving for 3 popular flavors are listened below:
Plain Cream Gelato Calories: 189 Fat: 10 grams Carbohydrate: 23 grams Protein: 4 grams
Almond Gelato Calories: 202 Fat: 8 grams Carbohydrate: 28 grams Protein: 4 grams
Strawberry Sorbetto Calories: 114 Fat: 8 grams Carbohydrate: 28 grams Protein: 4 grams
A single serving of gelato will be significantly lower in calorie count than almost any other popular dessert, and will be more nutritionally balanced than many other desserts, too. And yet, thanks to its bold flavors and creamy texture, you’ll love every single bite. Make sure you stop by Botolino Gelato to come taste your #spoonfulofitaly. Not only is this a dessert that you don’t have to feel guilty about, but it’s a dessert you can feel good about in every way.
Lindsey Lusson
Is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian,she also has a Masters in Sports Nutrition and is a Certified Specialist in Sport Dietetics