Summer is the season for ice cream, but not all ice cream is an equally good choice for our health. Many ready-made products contain large amounts of added sugar, hydrogenated fats, colourings and various additives, which increase the calorie content without providing any significant nutritional value.
Homemade protein ice cream is a great alternative – it’s delicious, easy to make and can provide high-quality protein that helps you feel full, supports muscle recovery and improves appetite control.
Research shows that consuming sufficient protein stimulates the release of the satiety hormones GLP-1 and PYY, which can reduce feelings of hunger and aid weight management. That is precisely why these recipes are a good choice for people who want to eat a balanced diet without having to go without their favourite summer desserts.
Ingredients:
• 2 frozen bananas
• 1 measuring spoon of vanilla protein
• 100 ml of almond milk
• 1 tsp peanut butter (optional)
Preparation:
Blend all the ingredients until smooth, then freeze for 1–2 hours.
Why is it useful?
Bananas provide natural sweetness, potassium and fibre, whilst the protein helps you feel fuller for longer.
Ingredients:
• 200 g Greek yoghurt
• ½ cup of frozen mixed berries
• 1 measuring spoon of vanilla or strawberry protein
• 1 tbsp honey
Preparation:
Mix all the ingredients together and freeze for about 2 hours.
Why is it useful?
Wild berries are rich in antioxidants and support cardiovascular health.
Ingredients:
• 200 g low-fat cottage cheese
• 25 g chocolate protein
• 1 tbsp cocoa
• 2 tbsp honey
Preparation:
Blend until smooth and freeze for 2–3 hours.
Why is it useful?
Cottage cheese is a rich source of casein – a slow-digesting protein that keeps you feeling full for longer.
Ingredients:
• 200 ml coconut milk
• 25 g vanilla protein
• 2 tbsp grated coconut
• 1 tbsp honey
Preparation:
Stir well and freeze, stirring occasionally.
Why is it useful?
Coconut contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCTs), which are rapidly utilised as a source of energy.
Ingredients:
• 200 g Greek yoghurt
• 25 g vanilla protein
• 1 tbsp cocoa
• 1 tsp instant coffee
• 1 tbsp honey
Preparation:
Mix all the ingredients together and freeze for 2–3 hours.
Why is it useful?
The combination of caffeine and protein makes for a satisfying afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
• 500 g full-fat cottage cheese
• 1.5 tbsp pistachio oil
• 2.5 tbsp honey
• Chopped pistachios
Preparation:
Blend the ingredients, pour the mixture into a container, sprinkle with pistachios and freeze for about 2 hours.
Why is it useful?
Pistachios are rich in healthy fats, vitamin B6 and antioxidants.
✔ No artificial colourings or preservatives
✔ Less added sugar
✔ More protein and a greater feeling of fullness
✔ Ability to control the ingredients
✔ Ideal as a balanced dessert or snack
Advice from a dietitian: For an even better texture, choose a protein powder with a neutral flavour and no artificial sweeteners. Whey or casein protein makes the mixture creamier.
