Exploring nutritional differences between sorbet and sherbet

Q: What's the difference between sherbet and sorbet?

A: Both sherbet and sorbet are frozen desserts made with fruit purée or juice, sugar, and flavorings. Sherbet also contains a small amount of milk, and possibly egg white or gelatin so sorbet is preferable for people who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, vegetarian, or vegan.

Sherbet and sorbet differ in calories based on the brand. One cup of either one may contain about 160 to 200 calories, which includes some natural sugar from fruit, but also lots of high fructose corn syrup or other added sugar (from 10 to 12 teaspoons of sugar). Both are low in fat, typically containing only about two or three grams per cup, far below ice cream. Because it does contain some milk, sherbet has 80 milligrams of calcium per cup, which is about what's in a quarter cup of milk.

Sorbet and sherbet are both lower in calories than the rich, high-fat “gourmet” ice creams. However, their high sugar content means they may have about the same amount of calories as light ice cream or frozen yogurt, or some store-brand ice creams.

Since there is wide variation between brands, check labels as you make your choice. Don't forget the impact of portion size — a low-fat or low-calorie choice still adds up if you eat a big bowl. No matter which you choose, enjoy a half-cup serving in a bowl filled with delicious fruit for fewer calories and more nutrients and fiber.

Q: Which is healthier, a tortilla or a slice of bread?

A: They are somewhat similar, but how much depends upon the tortilla — and the bread. Like bread, tortillas are made from a grain — either wheat or corn, so some nutrients are similar. But calories differ depending on the tortilla's size, thickness and fat content.

A one-ounce slice of bread typically contains 75 to 100 calories. Corn tortillas, the traditional choice for tacos and enchiladas, generally have 60 to 65 calories in each small six-inch piece. Flour tortillas are slightly higher in calories because they contain added fat to make them softer and easier to roll. Small six-inch flour tortillas usually aren't much more than 90 calories. However, many flour tortillas used for dishes like fajitas, large burritos and chimichangas are quite a bit larger and may be thicker, too. A 12-inch flour tortilla may contain nearly 300 calories with more carbohydrates than three slices of bread.

Beyond calories, nutritional value depends on whether the tortillas are made with whole grains and healthy fats. Instead of flour tortillas made from enriched flour (a refined grain), look for whole grain options (corn or whole wheat). Just as with bread, whole-grain tortillas provide more fiber and a more complete package of nutrients and health-protecting plant compounds. When buying flour tortillas, look for those made with vegetable oils. Learn more about whole grains in AICR's Foods that Fight Cancer.

• The American Institute for Cancer Research is the cancer charity that fosters research on the relationship of nutrition, physical activity and weight management to cancer risk, interprets the scientific literature and educates the public about the results. AICR has published two landmark reports that interpret the accumulated research in the field, and is committed to a process of continuous review. AICR is a member of the World Cancer Research Fund International.