Frozen Treats on a Stick

Treat yourself to something sweet once in a while but be aware of its sugar content.

Nothing says summer like a frozen treat! Dreamstime/TNS

Cooling off with a refreshing frozen pop is delicious for people of all ages. For adults, it can be a little bit of nostalgia and for littles, it’s just pure fun! But as we grow up we need to start thinking about what’s inside those frozen bars and how it can impact our insides.

There are so many options available at the market, you’re bound to find one that fits your tastes and needs. Whether you need low/no sugar, gluten free, fat free, dairy free, or are just looking for some indulgence, there’s a frozen treat on a stick option (or two) out there for you.

Fortunately, this is one item for which you don’t need to worry about sodium content as most bars contain little to none. One of the biggest factors to keep in mind is the added sugar content your bar provides and how it fits into your daily intake. The current added sugar intake guideline for adult women is 6 teaspoons (or 24 grams) and for men is 9 teaspoons (or 36 grams).

Helpful Hints

Alcohol awareness: To keep the sugar content down, some treats use sugar alcohols as sweeteners. Be aware these can cause bloating and stomach discomfort in some people, especially if eaten in large quantities.

Enjoy: Most frozen treats are considered indulgences and it’s fine allowing yourself to enjoy them occasionally, but for frequent eating, try choosing those within the pick criteria.

Allergies and intolerances: If you can’t eat dairy products but still want a creamy treat, you’re in luck. There are frozen treats using plant-based milks in place of cow’s milk.

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