Are you new to Optavia and wondering what foods are allowed on the diet?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether or not they can have turkey bacon.
The good news is that turkey bacon is a great option for those on the Optavia diet.
Not only is it lower in calories and fat than traditional pork bacon, but it’s also a good source of protein and essential minerals like zinc and iron.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of turkey bacon and provide some delicious recipes to help you incorporate it into your Optavia meal plan.
So, let’s dive in and find out if you can have turkey bacon on Optavia!
Can I Have Turkey Bacon On Optavia?
Yes, you can have turkey bacon on Optavia!
Turkey bacon is made from ground turkey meat, which makes it a lower-fat alternative to pork bacon. It contains fewer calories and fat than traditional pork bacon, and it’s typically lower in sodium as well.
In addition to being a healthier option, turkey bacon is also an excellent source of protein. For every two slices of turkey bacon, you can get roughly 20g of protein, which is more than chicken but less than beef.
Furthermore, turkey bacon contains essential minerals like zinc and iron, which are critical for the production of red blood cells, the development of muscle tissue, and the maintenance of physical activity.
Compared to pork bacon, turkey bacon is a more suitable choice for the Optavia diet because it contains less cholesterol, sodium, and fat.
The Benefits Of Turkey Bacon On Optavia
There are several benefits to including turkey bacon in your Optavia diet.
Firstly, turkey bacon is a low-fat option that still provides a high dose of protein. This is important because lean proteins are essential for staying healthy and fit, but they can be hard to come by when trying to cut down on the fat and cholesterol in your diet. Turkey bacon contains both lean proteins and healthy fats, making it a great addition to your meal plan.
Secondly, turkey bacon is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It contains essential minerals like zinc and iron, which are critical for the production of red blood cells, the development of muscle tissue, and the maintenance of physical activity. Additionally, it’s an excellent source of protein and vitamins that can help keep you feeling full.
Thirdly, turkey bacon is a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon. It contains fewer calories, less fat, and less sodium than pork bacon. This makes it a more suitable choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Finally, turkey bacon is often more affordable than other types of bacon. This makes it an excellent option for those on a budget who still want to enjoy a tasty breakfast or lunch.
Nutritional Information Of Turkey Bacon
A 82g serving of cooked turkey bacon contains 302 calories, 21g of fat, 24g of protein, and 3.5g of carbohydrates. Out of the total carbohydrate content, 3.5g is sugar and the rest is complex carbohydrate. This serving of turkey bacon also contains 5.7g of saturated fat and 125mg of cholesterol.
In terms of essential vitamins and minerals, a serving of cooked turkey bacon provides 15.58mcg of vitamin A, 0.0mg of vitamin C, and 0.98mcg of vitamin D. It also contains 2.16mg of iron, 133.66mg of calcium, and 546mg of potassium.
It’s important to note that the nutritional value may vary based on factors such as age, gender, physical activity level, and medical history. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a doctor before making any significant changes to your diet.
How To Incorporate Turkey Bacon Into Your Optavia Meal Plan
If you’re looking to incorporate turkey bacon into your Optavia meal plan, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, it’s important to remember that during the weight loss phase, bacon should not be used as your main protein source. Instead, focus on leaner alternatives like chicken, turkey, or fish.
During the transition phase and maintenance phase, you can eat 2 oz of Canadian bacon as your main lean option. However, if you want to use turkey bacon for your lean and green meal, it’s important to pair it with other lean meats allowed in the 5 and 1 plan to increase your protein intake.
One way to incorporate turkey bacon into your Optavia meal plan is by using it as a flavorful addition to your morning omelet or as a topping for your salad at lunch. You can also use it as a protein source in a stir-fry or wrap for dinner.
Keep in mind that while turkey bacon is a healthier alternative to pork bacon, it still contains sodium and saturated fat. Therefore, it’s important to use it in moderation and pair it with other healthy foods that will help you reach your optimal weight loss goals.
Delicious Turkey Bacon Recipes For Optavia
If you’re looking for some delicious and healthy turkey bacon recipes to add to your Optavia meal plan, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of our favorite recipes:
1. Turkey Bacon and Egg Muffins: These muffins are perfect for a quick and easy breakfast on the go. Simply whisk together some eggs, chopped turkey bacon, diced bell peppers, and shredded cheese, and bake in a muffin tin. They’re high in protein and low in carbs, making them a great option for a balanced breakfast.
2. Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: This recipe is a great way to add some flavor to your veggies! Simply wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of turkey bacon, and bake in the oven until crispy. You can also add some garlic powder or parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad: This salad is packed with healthy fats and protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Simply chop up some romaine lettuce and top with sliced turkey bacon, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Turkey Bacon and Sweet Potato Hash: This recipe is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Simply dice up some sweet potatoes and cook in a skillet with chopped turkey bacon, diced onions, and bell peppers. Top with a fried egg for extra protein.
5. Turkey Bacon and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts: This recipe is a bit more involved but worth the effort! Simply butterfly some chicken breasts and stuff with chopped turkey bacon, shredded cheese, and spinach. Bake in the oven until cooked through, and serve with a side salad or roasted veggies.
These recipes are all delicious and easy to make, making them perfect for anyone on the Optavia diet who wants to add some variety to their meals. Enjoy!