Compared to 20 years ago, vegans are spoiled for choice. Not only are there easily accessible resources, educational guides, and groups to share tips and tricks, but the food industry has caught on. From vegan cheese to vegan yoghurt to vegan ice cream, dairy alternatives have taken a hold of the food scene and are poised to only grow further. But how does that benefit those of us who haven’t taken the full dive into veganism?
Health Benefits to Eating Vegan
No matter your dietary restrictions, with options ranging from almond to soy to coconut milk, non-dairy ice creams are for everyone. And while the specific benefits (and possible drawbacks) will depend on the brand and the type of alternative ingredients found in the ice cream, there are general health benefits to eating vegan.
Increased Consumption of (Certain) Nutrients
Due to the food restrictions of a vegan diet, vegans have to rely more heavily on whole grains and vegetables, resulting in an increased intake of certain beneficial nutrients. While the standard Western diet typically contains enough vitamin B12, iron, and calcium, vegans have a higher daily intake of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin A, E, and C.
Beneficial for Weight Loss
Simply put: vegan diets have the natural effect of reducing your daily intake of calories. Due to the restrictions on ingredients and food types, common comfort foods and takeout dishes are no longer an option. Even when it comes to vegan ice cream, restrictions in the types of toppings a vegan can choose from can ultimately make a similarly sized portion less calorie-heavy.
Lower Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
A diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables has been associated with a lowered risk for heart disease. Several studies have even shown that vegan diets can reduce blood sugar and total cholesterol levels better than other diets. For example, plain oat milk has little to no cholesterol or saturated fats, and tends to have a lower fat count in general compared to regular dairy milk.
Reduced Inflammation
While dairy contains many important nutrients, it has been shown to increase inflammation and certain conditions such as acne. Not to mention the almost 75% of adults who are lactose sensitive or intolerant. Vegan diets, which naturally rely on plant-based proteins and nutrients, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of inflammation, and can go so far as to positively affect symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
In summary, vegan ice cream can offer a solution to those looking to make healthy changes in their diet. However, even veganism has its drawbacks, most notably in the form of nutrient deficiencies. As with most things, it’s about enjoying the sweet things in life in moderation, and doing what feels right for you.
ColdSnap offers a selection of ice creams, both dairy and non-dairy, as well as other products. Explore our site to learn more about our innovative, pre-portioned products!