Have you ever tried one of those new, "better" ice cream products or substitutes and been disappointed with your selection?

Over the years, from low-carb to low-fat, there have been many ice cream impersonators. Now we also have products made from soy, rice, and yogurt. But for those of us for whom there's no substitute for the real thing, there is a new variety of ice cream that will help us trim the fat and calories. This holiday season consider reaching for some slow churned ice cream. 

Slow churned ice cream is a rich and creamy ice cream product that is the result of new technology and churning techniques. This alternative ice cream product has less calories and fat than traditional ice cream choices, yet retains all the texture and richness of the familiar product. Since its introduction in 2004, almost all ice cream manufacturers have a slow churned version in several flavors.

Slow churned products provide between 100 and 130 calories per half-cup serving, which is about 50 percent less than regular ice cream. While this is all good news, remember that "fewer calories" does not necessarily mean healthy; a significant portion of the calories is still from simple sugars and fat. And just because the product may be less calorie-dense, it is not an excuse to eat a larger portion.