Is gelato or frozen yogurt healthier? Although both desserts are high in sugar, frozen yogurt is more nutritionally balanced. No matter which you prefer, there are ways to cut calories and get more nutritional bang for your buck. Both are high in carbohydrates and sugars, although frozen yogurt is generally lower in fat and contains probiotics that support digestive health.
Gelato Nutritional Information
Gelatos, sundaes, frozen yogurt, and ice pops are some of the most popular frozen desserts. Gelato and frozen yogurt are slightly healthier than classic ice cream, while ice pops have the fewest calories but are low in protein.
As you probably know, gelato is a frozen dessert that originates from Italy. Generally is denser, softer and lower in fat compared to ice cream. Frozen yogurt, on the other hand, contains at least 10 percent milk fat and 20 percent milk solids. This one is made with low-fat or full-fat yogurt, fruit, sweeteners, and flavorings.
The nutritional value of gelato depends on the ingredients used. This frozen dessert comes in hundreds of flavors and can be prepared in many ways. Its main ingredients are milk, cream and sugar, but unlike ice cream, it rarely contains eggs.
Gelato can be more or less healthy, depending on its nutritional value. Restaurant and supermarket-bought versions are often high in sugar, but you can make them at home. Here are some popular ice cream brands and their nutritional profiles:
- Coconut Gelato: 200 calories, 4g protein, 24g carbs, 19g sugars, and 10g fat per serving (1/2 cup)
- Peach Gelato: 170 calories, 3g protein, 25g carbs, 24g sugars, and 7g fat per serving (1/2 cup)
- Jam Gelato: 170 calories, 3g protein, 25g carbs, 22g sugars, and 7g fat per serving (1/2 cup)
- Espresso Ice Cream: 140 calories, 4g protein, 19g carbs, 18g sugars, and 6g fat per serving (3.1 oz)
Gelato vs Frozen Yogurt: Which is better?
When it comes to gelato versus frozen yogurt, the latter might be a better choice. On the one hand, It is higher in protein and lower in fat. On the other hand, contains live probiotic culturessuch as Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
As scientists point out, frozen yogurt has fewer beneficial bacteria compared to refrigerated yogurt. However, this varies from brand to brand. Probiotics support digestive health and immune function, states a January 2012 review published in the International Scholarly Research Notices. These live microorganisms can also improve blood lipids, protect against cancer, and stop diarrhea.
Frozen yogurt isn't necessarily healthier than regular ice cream. Store-bought versions contain added sugar and can add a few inches to your waistline.
A June 2017 study in Nutrition Research has linked frozen yogurt consumption to an increase in daily energy intake of 23 to 51 calories compared to regular yogurt. This frozen dessert has also been shown to increase the amount of sugar, fat, and cholesterol consumed. On the plus side, people who ate frozen yogurt had a increased intake of iron and fiber.
Make your own frozen yogurt
Like gelato or ice cream, frozen yogurt may or may not be healthy, depending on the ingredients used. Vanilla frozen yogurt, for example, boasts 100 calories, 3 grams of protein, and 22 grams of carbohydrates, including 16 grams of sugars per serving (240/29 cup). Other varieties, like buttermilk frozen yogurt, have up to XNUMX calories and XNUMX grams of sugars per half cup.
This sugary treat is slightly higher in protein than gelato, but the difference is negligible. Whether you're on a diet or trying to eat healthy, consider making frozen yogurt at home. All you need is one cup plain (or Greek) yogurt, fresh fruit, and stevia for sweetness (optional).
Blend everything in a food processor, pour into an ice cream mold, and freeze for a few hours or overnight. Try Greek yogurt for extra protein, oatmeal for extra fiber, or protein powder for more flavor and nutrition.