Mango season is almost here and I'm sure we all know of people who will practically be "feasting" on the king of fruits, be it aamras or mango milkshakes or ice-cream.
While mangoes are good for you and are a rich source of vitamin C and carotene, mango is also one of the highest calorie fruits. Here we look at some ways by which you can cut down on excess calories.
Mango ice-cream
One scoop (size of a tennis ball) = 180 calories and 9 grams of fat
The hot weather may tempt you to think of ice-cream and cold drinks, but bear in mind how high the fat content of an icecream is. Just one scoop supplies nine grams of fat while providing little other nutrition.
If you are one of those who plans to try your hand at home-made ice-cream, you can modify some of the calories by using low-fat skimmed milk. If not, try not to overindulge.
Fruit custard
With banana, chikoo, apple (1 medium bowl) = 300 calories, 0 fat calories
The ingredients of a fruit custard include milk, custard powder (corn starch), sugar and fruits. It is simple, easy to make and a good low-calorie dessert option.
If you want to further reduce the calories of this dessert you can replace the added sugar totally by an artificial sweetner like Splenda without altering the taste.
Using
One medium bowl skimmed milk fruit custard with splenda with half an apple, half an orange, few grapes = 100 calories
Eating your dessert
Just because you are watching your calories does not mean you will not feel tempted. Dieting does not mean depriving yourself, so here's how you can enjoy your dessert but avoid gaining weight!
- Choose a small plate/bowl so you take only a small portion of dessert.
- Take a small bite/spoonful enjoy it by allowing it to linger on your tongue before you swallow it.
- Share your dessert with a friend or your spouse, immediately halving the calories.
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The author is a nutritionist and a certified personal trainer. She runs Size Wise, a training studio, and also conducts fitness workshops. She has a PG Diploma in nutrition and food technology and writes for a number of publications.
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