Cold Comfort

How to Stay Warm and Cozy in Chilly Weather

The sun beams brightly overhead, drenching the world in a warm glow. A siren song of summer calls, and with it comes the hankering for those chilled, saccharine treats that embody the essence of the season. However, it’s critical to comprehend what indulgence may cost us in terms of nutritional value. Our exploration ranges from the light and icy sorbet, a delight for the vegans and lactose intolerant among us, to the richly textured gelato, known for its creamy consistency and vibrant flavor palette. Not forgetting the classic ice cream, a perennial crowd-pleaser with surprisingly balanced health credentials. As we embark on this sweet journey, we’ll weigh the caloric and sugar content, and even reveal some fascinating trivia around these delectable desserts. So sit back, enjoy the warm breeze, and allow us to be your guide on this tour of summer’s favorite indulgences.

GOOD: Sorbet

CALORIES (PER 125 ML): 110
Made with fruit or flavoured water and sugar, it’s an option for vegans or those who can’t tolerate the dairy or eggs in ice cream or gelato.

WAIT, WHAT?

One half-cup can contain 26 grams of sugar! (The Canadian Diabetes Association recommends limiting sugar intake to less than 10 percent of total daily calories.)

BETTER: Ice cream

CALORIES (PER 125 ML): 140
Although higher in calories than sorbet, vanilla ice cream contains less sugar and won’t raise your blood sugar as quickly as sorbet will.

WAIT, WHAT?

Day of the week the most ice cream is sold? Sundays. And in Canada, more ice cream is sold in the winter than in the summer.

BEST: GELATO

CALORIES (PER 125 ML): 180
Containing less cream and egg yolks than ice cream, gelato is dense thanks to how it is churned, making it more creamy, intensely flavourful, and satisfying.

WAIT, WHAT?

Viagra flavour gelato is a thing. It doesn’t contain the prescription drug, but rather aphrodisiac drugs from Africa.