Frozen Yogurt Guide for Dieters
Updated July 03, 2014.
Everyone loves frozen yogurt, but don't be fooled into thinking it's automatically a better choice than ice cream. To keep your frozen-yogurt order guilt-free, arm yourself with knowledge... like the tips and tricks below!
Before You Go...
Check to see if the shop's website has nutritional information online -- this way, you can make an informed decision once you get there. You can often access this info right from your smartphone, too.
Sometimes the locations will have the calorie counts on hand -- if they aren't right on the menu board, ask an employee if they have them available.
Need-to-Know Info: The Size of the Cup Is NOT the Same as the Serving Size
Think about it: When was the last time you were served frozen yogurt that came just to the top of the container? If your fro yo is towering over the top of the cup, be prepared to account for several extra ounces. My advice? Go with the smallest option, and you'll end up with a reasonable portion.
Click here for more serving-size tips 'n tricks!
Choose the Right Yogurt
They're not all created equal. Depending on the flavor and formula, frozen yogurt can have anywhere from 10 - 40 calories per ounce (yes, per ounce!)... sometimes more. Check out the nutritional info for each variety. If you're eyeing the more decadent (read: higher-calorie) options, you may want to mix and match with some of the lighter choices. FYI: Terms like "sugar-free," "fat-free," and "no-sugar-added" don't necessarily mean the yogurt is low in calories...
Get the hard facts!
The DOs and DON'Ts of Chocolate Toppings
With about 20 calories per teaspoon, chocolate sprinkles are a great way to feed a chocolate craving, especially since a little goes a long way. Chocolate chips aren't too bad either, as long as you don't go overboard -- half a tablespoon has about 40 calories. Things to avoid? Hot fudge (which can have around 90 calories per tbsp.), brownie bits (yup, even fat-free kinds have a lot of calories), and crushed candy bars (those don't go very far at all).
Click here for more chocolate advice!
The DOs and DON'Ts of Fruity Toppings
Watch out for fruit swimming in syrup -- it's loaded with sugary calories. Gummy bears and other fruity candy are reasonably low in calories and fat, but add them sparingly. Your best bet is fresh fruit, like strawberry slices or whole blueberries. Not only are these healthy and low in calories, but they're also high in fiber, which means your frozen treat will be more filling.
The DOs and DON'Ts of Crunchy Toppings
Shocker! Even low-fat granola has around 100 calories per 1/4 cup... Not awful, but you can do much better. Look for cone pieces, sweet cereal, or crushed graham crackers -- these will add satisfying crunch without causing your calorie count to skyrocket. Or go with a crunchy bottom... Have your fro yo in a sugar cone (around 50 calories) or a flat-bottomed cake cone (about 20 calories). Bonus? You can only pile so much frozen yogurt into standard-sized ice cream cones -- instant portion control!
Click here for more food shockers!
When in Doubt, K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple, Silly!
With all the fro-yo flavors, container sizes, and topping options, it's way too easy to get carried away. Get a simple low-calorie base in a small cup, and top it with tons of fresh fruit. Add a spoon, and you've got one guilt-free treat!
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