If you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional dairy ice cream, oat milk ice cream may be just what you’re looking for. But how does it compare to other types of ice cream?
Oat milk ice cream is a healthier alternative to traditional dairy ice cream, with less saturated fat and cholesterol and added health benefits like fiber and suitability for lactose intolerant individuals.
Let’s take a closer look.
Nutritional Comparisons of Different Types of Ice Cream
We’ve got the scoop on four fantastic types of ice cream: Oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and classic dairy.
Coconut Milk ice cream has the lowest sugar content with just 2g, while still offering a deliciously creamy experience.
Craving something nutty? Almond milk ice cream has similar nutritional stats as dairy milk, except that it is much lower in protein. Almond milk ice cream is a great choice if you are looking for a dairy-free option that is creamy and slightly nutty.
For those seeking a tropical escape, Coconut milk ice cream shares the lowest calorie count of 130 calories with Oat Milk ice cream, so you can indulge guilt-free!
And of course, for the traditionalists, Dairy ice cream packs the most protein at 6g per serving, giving you the perfect excuse to treat yourself!
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content of different types of ice cream per ⅔ cup serving:
| Type of Ice Cream | Calories | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oat Milk Ice Cream | 130 | 5 | 4.5 | 21 | 16 | <1 |
| Almond Milk Ice Cream | 200 | 10 | 7 | 27 | 20 | 2 |
| Coconut Milk Ice Cream | 130 | 9 | 8 | 24 | 2 | 2 |
| Dairy Ice Cream | 240 | 12 | 7 | 27 | 26 | 6 |
While we have compared the nutritional content of different types of ice cream, let’s dive a little deeper into the specifics of what makes each type unique.
Oat Milk Ice Cream
Oat milk ice cream is a relatively new addition to the ice cream market. It is made with oat milk, which is made by soaking oats in water and blending them into a creamy liquid. Oat milk is naturally creamy and slightly sweet, which makes it a great base for ice cream. Oat milk ice cream is a good source of fiber and beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is also a good option for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan. (For more info on the nutrition of oat milk, click here.)
Almond Milk Ice Cream
Almond milk ice cream is made with almond milk, which is made by blending almonds with water and straining out the pulp. Almond milk ice cream is a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that can help protect against cell damage. It is also a good option for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Coconut Ice Cream
Coconut ice cream is made with coconut milk, which is made by blending coconut meat with water and straining out the pulp. Coconut milk is naturally creamy and high in fat, which makes it a great base for ice cream. Coconut ice cream is a good source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that can help boost metabolism and improve brain function.
Dairy Ice Cream
Dairy ice cream is made with cream, milk, sugar, and flavorings. It is high in calories and fat, and often contains cholesterol. Dairy ice cream is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for maintaining healthy bones. However, it is not a good option for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Health Benefits of Oat Milk Ice Cream
Oat milk ice cream has several health benefits over traditional dairy ice cream, including lower cholesterol content and suitability for lactose intolerant individuals.
Lower Cholesterol Content
Oats contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood. As a result, oat milk ice cream may be a healthier option for people who are concerned about their cholesterol levels.
Rich in Fiber
Oat milk ice cream is also higher in fiber compared to dairy milk, which can help promote healthy digestion. Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
Suitable for Lactose Intolerant Individuals
Many people have difficulty digesting lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Oat milk is naturally lactose-free, making it a suitable alternative for people with lactose intolerance. Additionally, oat milk ice cream is vegan, which makes it a good option for people who follow a plant-based diet.
Potential Drawbacks of Oat Milk Ice Cream
While oat milk ice cream has several health benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Added Sugars
Oat milk ice cream often contains added sugars to make it more palatable. While some sugar is not necessarily a bad thing, too much sugar can be harmful to our health, and it is important to be mindful of how much we consume. It is also worth noting, that dairy ice cream also has added sugars, so, no surprise there.
Possible Allergen
While oats themselves are generally considered gluten free, some individuals may have a reaction to them because of cross contamination during processing. If you have a known gluten sensitivity or an allergy to oats, it is best to avoid oat milk ice cream and other oat-based products.
Limited Availability
Oat milk ice cream may not be as widely available as traditional dairy ice cream, which may make it difficult for some people to incorporate into their diet.
Oat Milk Ice Cream in Moderation
When comparing the nutritional content of different types of ice cream, oat milk ice cream may be a healthier alternative to traditional dairy ice cream for many people. It contains less saturated fat and cholesterol while still providing essential vitamins and minerals. Oat milk ice cream also offers health benefits like lower cholesterol content, high fiber content, and suitability for lactose intolerant individuals. As with all desserts, moderation is the key to a healthy lifestyle.
Almond milk ice cream is another good alternative for those who are looking for a healthier option. It contains similar nutritional content to dairy milk ice cream but lower protein content.
Ultimately, the choice of ice cream comes down to personal preference and dietary needs. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional dairy ice cream, oat milk ice cream is definitely worth considering.
So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and creamy, try some oat milk ice cream and see how it compares to your favorite dairy or non-dairy ice cream. You may be pleasantly surprised by the delicious taste and health benefits it offers.
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