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The temperatures are rising and so are the cravings for ice cream. But if you’re following the Wahls Protocol to manage your MS, a typical bowl of dairy-based ice cream is likely off the table. Still, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck skipping dessert all summer.

As a certified Wahls Protocol practitioner and someone living with MS, I know how hard it can be to balance joy and food rules. So today, I’m excited to share seven dairy-free alternatives to ice cream that satisfy your sweet tooth and stay aligned with your health goals.

1. Coconut Milk Ice Cream

This is often the first dairy-free alternative people try, and for good reason. Coconut milk is naturally creamy and makes a great base for frozen desserts.

You can make your own if you have an ice cream maker, but it’s totally okay to pick up a pint at the store. I like the SoDelicious brand. It’s not perfect, but it’s delicious and compliant with a dairy-free lifestyle.

If you don’t tolerate coconut, almond or cashew milk ice creams are great alternatives. I typically avoid oat milk options due to how grains are processed, but they’re another possible choice.

2. Nice Cream

Nice Cream is just frozen bananas blended into a creamy texture. It’s as simple as it sounds.

You can keep it plain or blend in frozen raspberries. For toppings, consider shredded coconut or non-dairy chocolate shavings, though it’s also perfect without anything extra.

This is one of the cheapest and cleanest options you can make and only requires a high-speed blender and frozen bananas.

3. Avocado Ice Cream

Avocados are rich in healthy fats and make a surprisingly creamy base. Blend ripe avocados with coconut milk, a bit of lime juice, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

If you’re following Level 3 of the Wahls Protocol, you’ll want to skip the sweetener and enjoy the natural flavor of avocado and lime.

4. Chia Seed Pudding Pops

Chia seeds are a good source of fiber and omega-3s.

To make these pops, mix chia seeds with coconut milk and a sweetener of choice. Pour the pudding into popsicle molds and freeze.

You can get creative with flavors, but keeping it simple makes them an easy, refreshing snack.

5. Frozen Fruit Bars

I always have frozen fruit bars on hand. Not only are they hydrating and full of vitamins, they’ve been helpful during migraines when dehydration becomes an issue.

These bars are quick to grab on hot days and offer a light, naturally sweet treat. My favorite flavors are strawberry and mango.

6. Fruit Sorbet

If you prefer a scoopable frozen dessert, fruit sorbet is a great option. Lemon is my favorite, but you can find many flavors in stores or make your own with blended fruit and water.

It’s simple and satisfying when you’re craving something cold and refreshing.

7. Acai Bowls

This is my personal favorite. The first time I had an acai bowl, I cried.

After feeling excluded at a bustling food market where I couldn’t eat most of the offerings, I found an acai stand that offered allergy-friendly options. That bowl of berries and granola wasn’t just food, it was a moment of feeling included again.

Blend frozen acai puree with coconut water or almond milk and top it with fresh fruit, gluten-free granola, seeds or coconut flakes. It’s not just delicious, it’s nutrient-packed and deeply satisfying.

The Deeper Story: It’s Not Just About Ice Cream

Food cravings, especially in the summer, are about more than flavor. They’re about memories, connection and inclusion. Following a therapeutic diet like the Wahls Protocol can sometimes bring up unexpected emotions; grief, frustration or sadness.

It’s okay to feel that way. In fact, allowing yourself to feel those emotions instead of pushing them down is part of healing. Food isn’t just fuel. It carries emotional weight, and acknowledging that helps you stay grounded in your health journey.

And remember, the goal is not perfection. It’s consistency and care. Choosing options that work for your body while still letting you enjoy the moment is a powerful way to reclaim your health and happiness.

So the next time the ice cream cravings hit, reach for one of these delicious dairy-free alternatives and enjoy your summer treat without compromise.

Want More Encouragement Like This? Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast: 🎧 Dairy-Free Alternatives to Ice Cream and Listen now to My MS Podcast