Are you a fan of breakfast meats but unsure which one to choose? The debate between spam and bacon has been ongoing for years, with both having their own unique taste and texture.
But when it comes to nutrition, which one is worse for you?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nutritional value of spam and bacon and determine which one comes out on top. From calories to macronutrient ratios, we’ll break down the facts and help you make an informed decision about your breakfast meat of choice.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of processed meats.
Which Is Worse Spam Or Bacon?
When it comes to the debate between spam and bacon, the answer to which one is worse for you is not a simple one. Both meats are high in calories and saturated fat, which can lead to health problems such as heart disease and high cholesterol.
However, there are some differences in the nutritional value of spam and bacon that may sway your decision.
In terms of calories, bacon has 206% more calories than spam. Bacon has 898 calories per 100 grams, while spam has 293 calories. This means that if you’re watching your calorie intake, spam may be the better option.
When it comes to macronutrient ratios, bacon is lighter in protein and carbs but much heavier in fat compared to spam per calorie. Spam, on the other hand, is an excellent source of protein and contains more thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, Vitamin B6, folate, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, and potassium than bacon.
Processed meats such as spam and bacon have been linked to adverse health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, COPD, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. Therefore, it’s important to consume these meats in moderation.
The Nutritional Value Of Spam
Spam is often overlooked as a nutritious option due to its processed nature and reputation as a less-than-ideal food choice. However, spam actually contains several essential vitamins and minerals.
One serving of spam (100 grams) contains 17% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of protein, which is higher than bacon’s macronutrient ratio of 0:0:100. Spam also contains 5% of the RDI for carbohydrates and a high percentage of fat from calories. However, it’s important to note that not all fats are created equal, and spam contains healthier unsaturated fats in addition to saturated fats.
In terms of micronutrients, spam is an excellent source of thiamin, niacin, vitamin B6, and zinc. Thiamin and niacin are important for energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system, while vitamin B6 is essential for brain development and immune function. Zinc is crucial for immune system health and wound healing.
On the downside, spam is high in sodium due to the added salt used in the curing process. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
The Nutritional Value Of Bacon
Bacon is a popular breakfast meat that is loved by many, but its nutritional value is a cause for concern. Bacon is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
In terms of macronutrient ratios, bacon is much heavier in fat compared to spam per calorie. Bacon has a macronutrient ratio of 0:0:100, meaning that it contains no carbohydrates or protein and is purely made up of fat. This makes it an unhealthy option for those who are trying to maintain a balanced diet.
Bacon is also high in sodium, with one slice containing around 190 mg of sodium. Consuming too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. In addition, bacon contains nitrates and nitrites, which are preservatives that have been linked to cancer.
Despite its unhealthy reputation, bacon does contain some essential nutrients. It is a good source of Vitamin B12, which is important for brain function and the production of red blood cells. Bacon also contains small amounts of iron, zinc, and selenium.
Calories Comparison: Spam Vs. Bacon
When comparing the calorie content of spam and bacon, it’s clear that bacon is much higher in calories. Bacon has 898 calories per 100 grams, while spam has only 293 calories per 100 grams. This means that you can consume a larger portion of spam without consuming as many calories as a smaller portion of bacon.
In terms of macronutrient ratios, bacon is much heavier in fat compared to spam per calorie. Bacon has a macronutrient ratio of 0:0:100, while spam has a ratio of 17:5:78 for protein, carbohydrates, and fat from calories. This means that bacon is much higher in fat and lower in protein and carbs compared to spam.
Fat Content Comparison: Spam Vs. Bacon
When it comes to fat content, both spam and bacon are high in saturated fat. However, bacon has 261% more saturated fat than spam. Bacon has 32g of saturated fat per 100 grams, while spam has 8.9g of saturated fat.
Saturated fat is known to increase cholesterol levels in the body, which can lead to heart disease and other health problems. Therefore, it’s important to limit your intake of saturated fats.
It’s also important to note that while spam is high in fat, it contains less total fat than bacon. In a single two-ounce serving of spam (56 grams), there are about 15 grams of fat. In comparison, 100 grams of bacon contain 68 grams of fat.
When it comes to the type of fat, both spam and bacon contain high amounts of saturated fat. However, bacon also contains significant amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are considered healthier than saturated fats and can help improve cholesterol levels in the body.
Sodium Content Comparison: Spam Vs. Bacon
One significant difference between spam and bacon is their sodium content. Spam is notoriously high in sodium, with one serving containing 790 milligrams of sodium, which is 33% of the recommended daily intake. On the other hand, bacon contains about 190 milligrams of sodium per slice, which is significantly less than spam.
Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, if you’re concerned about your sodium intake, bacon may be a better option than spam.
It’s worth noting that some brands of bacon and spam may have varying levels of sodium content. Therefore, it’s important to read the nutrition label carefully before making your choice. Additionally, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to processed meats, consider opting for leaner cuts of meat such as turkey or chicken breast.
Protein Content Comparison: Spam Vs. Bacon
When it comes to protein content, there is a significant difference between spam and bacon. Bacon has a macronutrient ratio of 0:0:100 for protein, carbohydrates, and fat from calories. This means that bacon is much lighter in protein compared to spam. On the other hand, spam has a macronutrient ratio of 17:5:78 for protein, carbohydrates, and fat from calories. This means that spam is an excellent source of protein, containing almost 17% protein per calorie.
In terms of serving size, one serving of spam is equal in grams to about 7 slices of bacon. Therefore, if you’re looking for a meat that’s high in protein, spam would be a better option than bacon.
However, it’s important to note that both spam and bacon are high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Therefore, it’s essential to consume these meats in moderation and balance them with other healthy protein sources such as lean meats, poultry, fish or legumes.
