So is soft serve healthier? In a vacuum, yes—it’s less calorically dense and lower in fat. But in the real world, with human behavior and portion sizes, the difference is negligible. You’re better off picking the treat that makes you happy and eating less of it, period.
For me, I’d rather have one perfect scoop of rich, French vanilla ice cream than a tub of airy soft serve that leaves me feeling cheated. But Lucy? She’ll take the swirl, the mess, and the sugar rush every time. And maybe, once in a while, that’s the healthier choice for your soul. (Don’t quote me on that to your doctor.)