Are you a bacon lover who’s trying to make healthier choices?
When it comes to breakfast, many people opt for turkey bacon over pork bacon, thinking it’s the healthier choice. But is it really?
In this article, we’ll compare the nutritional value of both types of bacon and give you tips on how to enjoy your bacon without feeling guilty.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
Which Is Healthier Turkey Bacon Or Pork Bacon?
When it comes to choosing between turkey bacon and pork bacon, there are a few factors to consider.
First, let’s talk about calories. Turkey bacon does have fewer calories per serving than pork bacon, but the difference is small – only about 50 calories per 2-ounce serving. So, if you’re watching your calorie intake, either option can fit into your diet in moderation.
Next, let’s talk about fat. Turkey bacon is leaner than pork bacon, with about 8 grams less total fat per serving. However, it’s important to note that both types of bacon are high in saturated fat, which can increase your risk of heart disease. In fact, eating just 2 ounces of either turkey or pork bacon brings you close to the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit for sodium (2,300 milligrams), which can also contribute to heart disease.
In terms of protein and vitamins, both types of bacon offer similar amounts. Pork bacon has slightly more vitamin B and selenium than turkey bacon, while turkey bacon has slightly more zinc. However, these differences are relatively small and shouldn’t be the sole factor in your decision-making process.
What Is Turkey Bacon And Pork Bacon?
Turkey bacon and pork bacon are both meat products that are commonly used as breakfast foods or added to sandwiches and salads. Pork bacon is made from the belly of a pig that has been salted and cured, while turkey bacon is made from seasoned pieces of turkey that have been flavored and seasoned to taste like cured bacon.
While turkey bacon is marketed as a low-fat alternative to pork bacon, it’s important to note that both types of bacon are high in saturated fat and sodium. In fact, opting for turkey bacon as the “healthier” choice can have a negative impact on your health if you eat too much of it.
Both types of bacon are high in protein, with pork bacon containing slightly more protein per serving than turkey bacon. However, turkey bacon is still a good source of protein and contains roughly 20% less protein per serving than traditional pork bacon.
Nutritional Comparison: Turkey Bacon Vs. Pork Bacon
Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional comparison between turkey bacon and pork bacon.
Starting with protein, both options offer roughly the same amount per serving. Pork bacon has 20 grams of protein per 2-ounce serving, while turkey bacon provides 17 grams. So, if you’re looking for a protein boost, either option can work.
Moving on to calories, turkey bacon does have fewer calories per serving than pork bacon, but the difference is small. A 2-ounce serving of turkey bacon contains around 218 calories, while the same amount of pork bacon has around 268 calories. So, if you’re counting calories, turkey bacon may be a slightly better option.
When it comes to fat content, turkey bacon is leaner than pork bacon. A 2-ounce serving of turkey bacon contains about 14 grams of fat, while the same amount of pork bacon contains around 22 grams of fat. However, it’s important to note that both types of bacon are high in saturated fat. Turkey bacon contains about 4 grams of saturated fat per serving, while pork bacon has around 8 grams. Eating too much saturated fat can increase your risk of heart disease, so it’s important to consume both types of bacon in moderation.
Finally, let’s talk about sodium. Both turkey and pork bacon are high in sodium, but turkey bacon actually contains more sodium than pork bacon. A 2-ounce serving of turkey bacon contains around 1,900 milligrams of sodium, while the same amount of pork bacon has around 1,300 milligrams. Too much sodium can increase your risk of heart disease and kidney stones, so it’s important to choose reduced-sodium options and consume both types of bacon in moderation.
Calories, Fat, And Cholesterol In Turkey Bacon Vs. Pork Bacon
When comparing the calories, fat, and cholesterol content of turkey bacon and pork bacon, there are some notable differences. Turkey bacon contains 226 calories per 100g, while pork bacon contains 417 calories per 100g. This means that turkey bacon has about 45% fewer calories than pork bacon.
When it comes to fat content, turkey bacon is leaner than pork bacon, with about 8 grams less total fat per serving. However, both types of bacon are high in saturated fat. Turkey bacon has 4 grams of saturated fat per serving, while pork bacon has 8 grams of saturated fat per serving.
In terms of cholesterol, there is some variation between the two types of bacon. Turkey bacon has 20 mg more cholesterol than regular pork bacon. However, pork bacon has a significantly lower cholesterol level overall.
It’s important to note that both types of bacon should be consumed in moderation due to their high sodium content. Eating just 2 ounces of either turkey or pork bacon brings you close to the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit for sodium (2,300 milligrams).
Protein And Sodium In Turkey Bacon Vs. Pork Bacon
One key difference between turkey bacon and pork bacon is the amount of protein and sodium they contain. Each 2-ounce serving of pork bacon offers 20 grams of protein, while turkey bacon provides 17 grams. So, if you’re looking for a slightly higher protein content, pork bacon may be the way to go.
However, when it comes to sodium, turkey bacon falls short. If you don’t select reduced-sodium bacon, just a few slices can max out your daily recommended intake of salt – less than 1,500 milligrams according to the American Heart Association. Two ounces of turkey bacon has more than 1,900 milligrams of sodium, which is significantly higher than the roughly 1,300 milligrams found in the same amount of pork bacon.
It’s important to note that high sodium intake raises the likelihood of kidney stones and increases your risk of heart disease. So, if you’re watching your sodium intake or have a history of heart disease or kidney problems, you may want to opt for pork bacon over turkey bacon. However, if you’re generally healthy and not at risk for these issues, either option can fit into your diet in moderation.
Which Is Better For Weight Loss: Turkey Bacon Or Pork Bacon?
If you’re looking to lose weight, the lower calorie and fat content of turkey bacon may make it a better choice than pork bacon. However, it’s important to keep in mind that both types of bacon are processed meats and high in sodium, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess.
Additionally, some brands of turkey bacon may contain added sugar to improve taste and texture, which can add up if you’re on a low-carb or low-sugar diet. If sugar is a concern for you, look for brands of turkey bacon that contain no added sugars.
Ultimately, the key to weight loss is maintaining a calorie deficit by consuming fewer calories than you burn through physical activity and daily functions. Whether you choose turkey or pork bacon, be mindful of portion sizes and try to balance your intake with plenty of whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
Tips For Enjoying Bacon In Moderation
While bacon isn’t typically considered a health food, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some tips for enjoying bacon without going overboard:
1. Watch your portion sizes: Bacon is high in calories and saturated fat, so it’s important to keep your serving sizes in check. Stick to 2-3 slices of bacon per serving, and avoid piling it on to your plate.
2. Choose center-cut bacon: Center-cut bacon has less fat than regular bacon, making it a slightly healthier option.
3. Compare nutrition labels: Different brands of bacon can vary in their sodium and fat content, so be sure to compare nutrition labels and choose a lower-sodium option when possible.
4. Pair with healthier foods: Instead of pairing your bacon with high-calorie and high-sodium foods like cheese and fries, try pairing it with healthier options like whole grain toast and avocado.
5. Consider turkey bacon: While turkey bacon may not be as flavorful as pork bacon, it is a leaner option that can still satisfy your bacon cravings. Just be sure to choose a lower-sodium option and enjoy it in moderation.
