Gluten free ice cream is a deliciously healthy treat anyone can enjoy on hot summer days. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth while being conscious of your health, going gluten-free is a wise decision. The gluten free part is key for yogurt bar enthusiasts with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Read on to find out if yogurt bars are an ideal option for your gluten free diet.
Check the Ingredients, Flavors, and Toppings
Before purchasing gluten free ice cream, research the ingredients, toppings, and flavors. Plain yogurt is almost always gluten free, but introducing flavors and toppings can add gluten to the product. The Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) recommends checking for the “gluten-free” label. You’ll also need to check the ingredients list to make sure there are no gluten-containing products.
Many toppings, like cookie crumbles, contain gluten, but many can be made without gluten even if they usually do have some. With gluten free versions, your ideal yogurt bar can include toppings like strawberry bits, syrups, and chocolate chunks. Check the flavors for gluten as some may already be gluten free or can be made with gluten free ingredients. Popular flavors like chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla are often already gluten free, but you should still look through the ingredients list as many additives contain gluten. Wheat, barley, and rye have high levels of gluten and are not included in gluten free ice creams. If a yogurt bar doesn’t have such ingredients, it’s a good option for a gluten free diet.
Always be cautious when buying gluten-less ice cream from an ice cream service since cross-contamination can occur when preparing or serving your ice cream. It may result from using the same equipment to prepare gluten and gluten-free ingredients. Reputable gluten free yogurt providers will have separate areas and equipment to prepare and serve no-gluten ice cream.
Check Protein and Sugar Levels
Review the protein content and calories when choosing your gluten free frozen treat. A trusted brand will indicate the percentage of calories and proteins in each ice cream product. Higher protein content is ideal for muscle development and maintaining muscle mass. Gluten-less ice creams contain dairy products like cream, whey, and milk. Other rich sources of protein used in non-gluten ice creams include pea protein, guar gum, and cocoa powder. Look for ice creams with low sugar and fat content to minimize calorie intake. Ice cream with low sugar and fat content may help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid potential blood sugar spikes, particularly for people with diabetes.
Supplement Your Diet With Gluten Free Yogurt Bars
Despite being gluten free, yogurt bars can’t be used as complete meal replacements. Unlike a balanced diet, yogurt bars might not contain all the healthy nutrients. Use them as on-the-go snacks to curb hunger or provide quick energy. They may help individuals resist unhealthy food temptations and overeating. Choosing non-gluten ice cream as your daily snack is also a great way to increase nutrient intake. Try different types to benefit from a wide range of nutrients.
Buy Your Favorite Gluten Free Ice Cream
A gluten free diet can feel more restrictive, but you can spice it up with gluten-less ice creams. Such ice creams have substantial protein and suit people with gluten allergies. Add them to your gluten free diet to boost nutrient intake, increase energy levels, and maintain a healthy weight. Choose your favorite gluten free ice cream today to add to your diet.
