A new study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has come up with a rather unexpected result: eating ice cream might actually be good for your heart. Researchers found that individuals who consumed ice cream in moderation had lower rates of cardiovascular disease. They believe this may have something to do with certain nutrients found in dairy that give the heart a helping hand.
For years, ice cream has been seen as a guilty pleasure, but this research suggests it might not deserve such a bad reputation. Of course, that doesn’t mean anyone should eat a whole bucket of it; portion size still matters.
Nutritionists say this could change the way we perceive “unhealthy” foods. Instead of writing them off completely, it may be time to look at their overall nutrient profiles and how they fit into a balanced diet.
Keri Glassman, a New York-based nutritionist, points out that ice cream contains a fatty acid called C15:0. This little nutrient has been linked to slowing down cellular ageing, supporting heart and liver health, and even strengthening our bodies against age-related wear and tear, according to Fox News Digital.
So, can ice cream really be part of a healthy lifestyle? Although there are some debates, it seems the answer is yes if you keep it balanced. And if you want your ice cream to be extra healthy, try topping it with fresh fruit or a handful of nuts.