There is nothing like ice cream, but with obesity becoming a growing epidemic, people around the world are looking for some healthy alternatives. Here are three alternatives to ice cream that are as nutritious as they are delicious. You'll be sorry you didn't think of them sooner!

1. Frozen Yogurt

Ice cream can be difficult to replace, but today's frozen yogurts have a taste that is more and more similar to that of ice cream. Ice cream is typically made from whole cream, milk and high amounts of added sugar. All of these have been found to contain high amounts of saturated fats, which lead to the development of cardiovascular disease, stroke and even some cancers. Unlike these ingredients, today's frozen yogurt is typically just that - yogurt that has been whipped and frozen. Because of this, it is substantially lower in fat and calories. For best results, choose frozen yogurt that has been made with low or non fat dairy products. Even better, you may want to consider making the yogurt yourself. Purchase an ice cream maker from a home improvement or specialty cooking store, and combine fat free yogurt with the fruit of your choice. Combine the ingredients as directed on the ice cream maker. Your family won't believe that it's not real ice cream!

2. Fresh Fruit

While fresh fruit won't provide you with the same taste or creaminess of ice cream, it can still mimic the sweetness and provide a great flavor. For best results, use fruit that is in season. Not only will these products be less expensive, but they will also be the most fresh and therefore typically will have the best flavor. Be sure to include the skin of the fruit in your diet for great health. Fruit skin has been found to be rich in fiber, which research has found can treat and prevent a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease and colon cancer. For a product that is more similar to ice cream, you may want to consider freezing your fruit. Small berries and grapes freeze very well, but be sure to cut larger fruits into small pieces in order to ensure complete freezing.

3. Fruit Smoothie

If you like fruit but want something that is a little more similar to ice cream, you may want to consider choosing a fruit smoothie. Fruit smoothies are often made by combining fruit with yogurt and crushed ice, and therefore can be relatively healthy. For best results, try to keep your fruit smoothie as natural as possible. This means limiting syrups and added flavorings. Try to stick to plain fruit and low or non fat yogurt. Like the homemade frozen yogurt, this is another tasty alternative to ice cream that with a little practice can be easily made at home.