Are you a fan of Canadian bacon? Do you ever wonder about its nutritional value, specifically its cholesterol content?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Canadian bacon and break down its cholesterol and fat content. We’ll also compare it to regular bacon and explore some healthier alternatives.
So, whether you’re a bacon lover or just curious about the nutritional value of your breakfast meats, keep reading to learn more about Canadian bacon and how it fits into a healthy diet.
How Much Cholesterol In Canadian Bacon?
Canadian bacon is a popular breakfast meat that is enjoyed by many people around the world. But how much cholesterol does it contain? According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, 85 grams of unprepared Canadian bacon contains 41 milligrams of cholesterol.
While this may seem like a lot, it’s important to note that the American Heart Association recommends limiting daily cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams for healthy adults and 200 milligrams for those with high cholesterol or heart disease. So, a serving of Canadian bacon only accounts for a small portion of your daily cholesterol intake.
It’s also worth noting that Canadian bacon is lower in fat and cholesterol than regular bacon. In fact, 85 grams of unprepared regular bacon contains 30 milligrams of cholesterol and a whopping 18 grams of fat, with almost half of those calories coming from saturated fat.
What Is Canadian Bacon?
Canadian bacon, also known as back bacon, is a type of bacon that is made from the pork loin from the back of the pig. It may also include a portion of the pork belly in the same cut. This cut of bacon is much leaner than side bacon made only from the pork belly, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat and cholesterol intake.
Canadian bacon is a popular breakfast meat that is enjoyed around the world. It is typically cured, smoked, and sliced into rounds. It has a juicy and tender texture and is usually reserved for breakfast or brunch. While it may look similar to ham, Canadian bacon comes from the back of the pig, while ham comes from the back legs, specifically the thighs and rear end.
In Canada, back bacon is not smoked or pre-cooked. It is almost always the lean, boneless pork loin of the animal. The loin is then pickle-cured and rolled in a fine golden cornmeal. This coating is sometimes made of peas, which is why this type of bacon is also sometimes called peameal bacon in Canada.
Cholesterol Content In Canadian Bacon
When it comes to cholesterol content, Canadian bacon is a better choice than regular bacon. 100 grams of Canadian bacon contains 48 milligrams of cholesterol, while the same amount of regular bacon contains 97 milligrams. This means that Canadian bacon is a healthier option for those who are watching their cholesterol intake.
It’s important to note that while Canadian bacon is lower in cholesterol than regular bacon, it’s still a processed meat and should be consumed in moderation. The American Heart Association recommends limiting processed meat intake due to its link to increased risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
In addition to its lower cholesterol content, Canadian bacon is also a good source of protein, with 100 grams containing 20.24 grams of protein. It also contains important vitamins such as Vitamin B-3, Vitamin B-9, and Vitamin B-5.
Comparison To Regular Bacon
When comparing Canadian bacon to regular bacon, the nutritional differences are significant. One microwaved slice of turkey bacon contains 8.1 grams of fat and 17 grams of protein, while one microwaved slice of pork bacon contains 9.1 grams of fat and 20 grams of protein. Although the difference in fat content is not significant, regular bacon contains more saturated fat than turkey bacon, which can contribute to heart disease.
In terms of calories, turkey bacon is slightly lower than pork bacon, with 218 calories per 2-ounce serving compared to 268 calories for pork bacon. However, both types of bacon are high in sodium, with turkey bacon containing more than 1,900 milligrams per serving and pork bacon containing roughly 1,300 milligrams per serving. Consuming too much sodium can increase your risk of heart disease and kidney stones.
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, both types of bacon provide vitamin B complex nutrients and zinc. However, pork bacon contains more selenium, a mineral that activates certain proteins associated with preventing cancer.
If you’re looking for a leaner alternative to regular bacon, Canadian bacon may be a good choice. One hundred grams of raw pork belly contains 518 calories, while the same amount of Canadian bacon contains only 30 calories with less than 1 gram of fat. Additionally, Canadian bacon is lower in cholesterol than regular bacon. One serving of Canadian bacon only accounts for a small portion of your daily cholesterol intake, while regular bacon contains almost double the amount of cholesterol per serving.
Healthier Alternatives To Canadian Bacon
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives to Canadian bacon, there are several options to consider. Lean meats, such as turkey bacon or pork bacon products, can be a good choice in moderation. Canadian bacon itself is already a lean option, but you can also try turkey bacon or low-fat chicken as a substitute.
Another option is tempeh, a fermented soybean product that can be flavored to mimic the taste of bacon. Tempeh is low in fat and calories and contains no cholesterol, making it a great alternative for those looking to reduce their intake of animal products.
Mushrooms are another surprising alternative to Canadian bacon. They have a meaty texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a great substitute in dishes like omelets or breakfast sandwiches.
For a vegan option, coconut bacon bits are becoming increasingly popular. Made from coconut flakes marinated in savory seasonings, they can be used as a topping for salads, potatoes, and more.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to any type of meat or meat substitute. By choosing leaner options and incorporating plant-based alternatives, you can still enjoy the taste of Canadian bacon while also making healthier choices for your body.
Incorporating Canadian Bacon Into A Balanced Diet
Canadian bacon can be a great addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. When prepared correctly, Canadian bacon is low in fat and contains plenty of protein, which can help to keep you feeling fuller for longer, encouraging you to eat fewer calories. It is also an excellent source of B vitamins, which can help to promote a healthy metabolism and boost your energy levels.
One way to incorporate Canadian bacon into your diet is by using it as a protein source in breakfast dishes. Try adding it to omelets or breakfast wraps with vegetables for a filling and nutritious meal. You can also use Canadian bacon as a topping for whole grain toast or English muffins instead of traditional bacon.
Canadian bacon can also be used in lunch and dinner dishes. It adds a delicious smoky flavor to salads, sandwiches, and soups. You can also use it as a topping for homemade pizzas or quesadillas.
When choosing Canadian bacon, opt for the leanest cuts possible and avoid brands that contain added sugars or preservatives. Also, be mindful of portion sizes as Canadian bacon still contains some cholesterol. Incorporating Canadian bacon into a balanced diet can provide numerous health benefits and add variety to your meals.