Hitting up the local ice cream shop or freezer section to beat the heat? As if ice cream wasn’t enough of a treat, you have a rainbow of toppers to choose from. Ice cream lovers tend to forget that these colorful confections can pile up the calories and fat. Consider our tips before making your next sundae.

The Payoff: Chocolate-y goodness with 40 calories and 4 grams of fat less per tablespoon. A tablespoon of fudge averages 80 calories, but many sundaes come topped with more than 500 calories worth!

Instead of: Chocolate-Cream Sandwich Cookie Chunks

Choose: Chocolate Sprinkles (a.k.a. "jimmies" or "shots")

The Payoff: 25 percent less calories, no added sugar and healthy fat from real peanuts instead of processed oils.

The Payoff: Same fun colors and 3 1/2 teaspoons less sugar per serving.

Choose: Fresh Strawberries (or Banana – or other fresh fruit options)

The Payoff: No added sugar and nutrients like fiber and vitamin C

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. See Dana's full bio »

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What's your favorite lighter ice  cream or frozen yogurt topping? Tell us in the comments below.