Light Ice Cream (NFS): A Moderate Glycemic Index Frozen Treat
For those monitoring their blood sugar levels while still wanting to enjoy frozen desserts, light ice cream can be a reasonable option. Let’s explore the glycemic impact and nutritional profile of light ice cream (NFS – Not Further Specified).
Glycemic Information
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Light ice cream has a moderate glycemic index of 50, placing it in the medium GI range. This means it causes a moderate rise in blood glucose levels compared to pure glucose.
With a glycemic load of 12.6 per 100g serving, light ice cream has a moderate impact on blood sugar. The glycemic load takes into account both the quality (GI) and quantity of carbohydrates in a food.
Nutritional Breakdown
A 100g serving of light ice cream provides:
- Calories: 174 kcal
- Protein: 4.38g
- Fat: 6.14g
- Total Carbohydrates: 25.4g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 14.3g
- Net Carbs: 25.2g
Is Light Ice Cream Better for Blood Sugar?
Light ice cream typically contains less fat and fewer calories than regular ice cream, but it’s important to note that it still contains a significant amount of carbohydrates. With 25.4g of carbohydrates per 100g serving, of which 14.3g are sugars, it’s still capable of raising blood glucose levels.
The moderate GI value of 50 is better than many desserts, but the relatively high glycemic load means portion control remains important for blood sugar management.
Tips for Including Light Ice Cream in a Balanced Diet
- Watch your portion size – stick to the standard serving or less
- Pair with protein or healthy fats to reduce the glycemic impact
- Consider adding berries (which are low GI) as a topping instead of high-sugar options
- If you have diabetes or insulin resistance, consume light ice cream sparingly and monitor your blood sugar response
Bottom Line
Light ice cream offers a moderate glycemic index option for those wanting an occasional frozen treat. While it’s lower in calories and fat than regular ice cream, it still contains considerable carbohydrates that impact blood sugar. As with most treats, moderation is key, especially for those with diabetes or blood sugar concerns.
Remember that individual glycemic responses can vary, so monitoring your personal reaction to light ice cream is the best approach to determine if it fits into your dietary plan.