Who doesn't love the creamy, dreamy goodness of ice cream? It's the perfect treat on a hot summer day or simply a delightful indulgence any time of year.
But did you know that making homemade ice cream is not only quick and easy but also much healthier than most store-bought options? In this article, we'll walk you through a simple homemade ice cream recipe passed down from my dad, and we'll also uncover the not-so-sweet truth about the gut-disrupting ingredients commonly found in commercial ice cream.
Why Start Reading Labels?
Before we dive into our simple homemade ice cream recipe, let's talk about the importance of reading labels. Understanding what's in the products you consume empowers you to make informed choices. Many store-bought items are loaded with unnecessary and often harmful ingredients. By taking a closer look at labels, you can protect your health and well-being. I encourage you to start taking steps to better health simply by making things at home that we commonly buy already packaged at the store.
Why I Believe Homemade Ice Cream is a Healthier option-
Control Over Ingredients: When you make ice cream at home, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can choose high-quality dairy, organic sugar, and pure vanilla extract, ensuring that you avoid unnecessary additives and preservatives.
Less Sugar: Many store-bought ice creams contain excessive amounts of sugar, which can be detrimental to your health. By making your own, you can adjust the sugar content to suit your taste while still keeping it in moderation.
No Artificial Additives: Commercial ice creams often contain artificial flavors, colors, and stabilizers. These additives can be harsh on your digestive system and may lead to discomfort for some individuals.
Gut-Disrupting Ingredients in Store-Bought Ice Cream:
Here's a list of some common gut-disrupting ingredients found in many store-bought ice creams:
Artificial Colors: Some ice creams are artificially colored to achieve that enticing appearance. These synthetic colors have been linked to digestive issues and may cause allergic reactions in some people.
Stabilizers and Emulsifiers: Many commercial ice creams contain stabilizers and emulsifiers like guar gum, carrageenan, and polysorbate 80. These additives can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and lead to digestive discomfort.
High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS): HFCS is a cheap sweetener used in many processed foods, including ice cream. Excessive consumption of HFCS has been associated with obesity and digestive problems.
Artificial Flavors: Artificial flavors may mimic natural ingredients, but they often lack the complexity and nutritional benefits of real flavors. These can lead to digestive discomfort in some individuals.
Now that we've learned why homemade ice cream is better for your overall health than store-bought, let's get to the recipe!
Making homemade ice cream is not only a fun and rewarding activity but also a healthier choice for your gut. By avoiding the gut-disrupting ingredients commonly found in store-bought ice cream, you can indulge in a creamy, delicious treat that's kinder to your digestive system. So why not try out our simple homemade ice cream recipe and savor the difference for yourself? Your taste buds and your gut will thank you!
Let me know if you're going to give this a try!
Xoxo-
