Nutrition

Turkey Bacon Nutritional Facts and Benefits

Source : kitchenskip

Turkey Bacons! The healthier and leaner version of bacon. Turkey bacon has grown in popularity in recent times as a better alternative to pork bacon. 

And did you know, that turkey bacon first blew up during the 1990s as it became famous for being known as a healthier eating habit and also for reducing the consumption of red meat? Among many, let's talk about the major benefits turkey bacon provides and why it is a better option for you to switch to it! 

Turkey Bacon Nutrition Facts

Turkey Bacon gives a unique but healthy kick as your first meal of the day. The meat is derived from turkey and is processed in such a way that it imitates the taste as well as the texture of Pork bacon. No compromise to your health or your taste buds.

Let's get to know the nutritional composition of one serving(2 slices) of turkey bacon:

  • Calories: 60
  • Protein: 4.8g
  • Fat: 4.2g
  • Sodium: 328mg
  • Carbohydrates: 0.7g
  • Sugars: 0.7g
  • Fiber: 0g

Source : theshortordercook

Protein

Did you know that one serving of turkey bacon consists of 4.8 grams of protein? As we all know protein is essential for our muscle development and repair. It supports our body with necessary nutrients and helps with our overall well-being.

The protein in the turkey bacon can also help us be fuller for longer periods and satisfied after meals, potentially helping in weight management. 

Fats

If you take two slices of turkey bacon, it has around 2.5 to 4.6 grams of fat, where two-thirds is unsaturated fats and one-third is saturated fats. Whereas two slices of pork bacon have total fats of 8-10 grams, saturated fats being 3-4 grams, and unsaturated fats being 4-5 grams.

Meaning that the fat composition is lower in Turkey bacon than pork bacon. Therefore, turkey bacon is considered a "leaner" option. 

Vitamins and Minerals

Turkey bacon is loaded with more nutrients than pork bacon. The turkey bacon has a primary content of Sodium. It contains almost 328 milligrams of sodium per serving, usually two slices, which indicates about 14 % of the daily intake amount recommended.

It is recommended that 2300 milligrams of sodium per day is ideal for adults, and not more than 1500 milligrams for patients with high blood pressure. Turkey bacon also consists of a small amount of Vitamin B, particularly Niacin, which is beneficial for metabolism and skin health.

Carbs

Turkey bacon is 100% meat, except for a few added flavorings and preservatives. The meat is naturally found in a low carbohydrate state, which makes it a key factor for people who follow a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

The main content found in Turkey bacon is protein and fats, which are the primary micronutrients found in meat production. The main reasons why turkey bacon contains carbs is because of the added sugar, flavorings, and preservatives. 

Health Benefits of Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon is loaded with more nutrients than pork bacon. It is typically low in calories, low in fats, especially saturated fats, supporting better heart health. It is not just a healthier alternative, it is also very convenient in different spectrums. 

The recent recommendations from the American Heart Association suggest that adults should take no more than 5-6% of daily calories coming from saturated fat. Unlike pork bacon, you may eat a few more slices of turkey bacon without crossing your weight limit, depending on what else you eat during the day. 

Since turkey bacon is considered a healthier alternative, let's understand the health benefits of this slice of meat:

1. Protein Powerhouse

One serving of turkey bacon has 4-6 grams of protein. It is a very good source of protein for a delicacy. As we all know protein is essential for our muscle development and repair. It supports our body with necessary nutrients and helps with our overall well-being.

The protein in the turkey bacon can also help us be fuller for longer periods and satisfied after meals, potentially helping in weight management. The protein content in turkey bacon may vary between brands, but it typically offers a comparable amount of protein to pork bacon, making it a better alternative for people who watch what they eat. 

However, it is important to be aware that while turkey bacon is healthy, it also contains sodium, and other plant-based lean products provide the same or more amount of protein with way less sodium and processing. Like other food, consuming turkey bacon with a balanced meal is ideal.

2. Healthier for your Heart

Source : freepik

Generally, turkey bacon is low in fat and is less greasy, making it a potent for a healthier heart. It can be a better choice for monitoring your caloric intake or even managing your heart health. 

Research has shown that the reduced amount of saturated fat content is specifically beneficial, as high saturated fat is directly linked to many cardiovascular diseases. 

Some companies given include additional vitamins and minerals, potentially providing more micronutrients than in a pork bacon. It also includes a decent source of selenium, which acts as an antioxidant in the body.

3. Lower in Calories

Unlike pork bacon, turkey bacon contains way fewer calories, making it an ideal choice for those who are calorie-conscious. 

A standard-sized serving of two slices of Turkey bacon consists of 60-70 calories, whereas, a standard-sized serving of two slices of pork bacon consists of 80-90 calories. Even though the difference is minimal, it does make a huge difference to people who eat it regularly. 

For people who follow a specific low-calorie diet or who can not consume pork due to religious reasons, turkey bacon is one of the best options to consume. It is also beneficial for those who are seeking weight management or maybe to even lose some weight.

4. Lower in Fat

Turkey bacon is considered a "leaner" and a "healthier" option because of the low-fat content. Two slices of turkey bacon have around 2.5 to 4.6 grams of fat, where two-thirds are unsaturated fats and one-third are saturated fats.

This helps people to monitor their fat intake. Since turkey bacon usually has less saturated fat, saturated fat is a type of fat associated with high risks of having heart disease when consumed a lot. 

If the consumption of turkey bacon is moderate and taken with a well-balanced meal, it not only reduces calories but also is beneficial for your heart and overall health.

5. Allergen-free Alternative

Source : freepik

As per many researches, turkey bacon is most unlikely to trouble you with any allergies. If you are fine eating both turkey meat and pork meat, you are fine eating turkey bacon without any issues.

However, some brands may include some addictives that you might have minor problems with, therefore, checking the labels is ideal. A few people, even though pork allergies are very uncommon, might have to deal with some serious reactions.

Turkey bacon, on the other hand, provides a safer option for those who do not want to give up pork bacon. Turkey bacon is also suitable for people who follow a specific religion or hala or a kosher diet that does not include pork in their diets.

6. Good Source of Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Niacin is also known as Vitamin B3. The Niacin content in turkey bacon helps your metabolism and overall digestive processes. 

The Niacin content helps your body in metabolism by supporting the conversion of food we eat into energy. It is also a crucial aid for your nerves and digestive system.  A decent and moderate serving of turkey bacon provides a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of Niacin. 

Not only that, but this particular Vitamin is also responsible for many health benefits like supporting healthy heart functions, helping to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), and increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels. 

Some research has also shown that the Niacin content in turkey bacon helps in managing Type 1 diabetes and also helps prevent skin cancer.

7. May Support Weight management

We have already mentioned the low-calorie and low-fats content in Turkey bacon, which is the key reason for weight management. If turkey bacon is consumed in a well-balanced diet and moderately, it can support you in maintaining your body weight.

Consuming turkey bacon over pork bacon reduces the intake of unwanted fat and calories without eliminating the food you enjoy. You would not miss the bacon anymore. Turkey bacon is designed to mimic the original. The appearance, flavor, and textures are almost identical.

Moreover, the protein in turkey bacon also makes you feel fuller avoiding any future cravings or overeating.

8. Your best friend for a healthier skin

Source : freepik

The niacin content in turkey bacon, commonly known as Vitamin B3, is potent for healthier skin. The niacin helps protect the cells from getting damaged and may also maintain the moisture in your skin.

When consumed with certain foods it may also treat acne in some cases. Turkey bacon also aids in the production of keratin, a type of protein that is essential for skin structure.

Even though turkey bacon can not be primarily considered as the source of skin-boosting nutrients, the niacin content can contribute to overall skin health and support in balanced diet. But remember, moderate consumption is recommended as it contains sodium and fat content as well. 

9. Lowers the risk of Foodborne Diseases

Turkey bacon is typically found pre-cooked, resulting in lower contamination of bacteria or germs. Whereas, raw pork bacon is highly at risk of having foodborne diseases contamination.

Pathogen, an infectious microorganism or agents, such as a virus, bacteriums, protozoan, prion, viroid, or fungus, like Trichinella spiralis, are most likely to be found in raw pork meat as compared to turkey meat. Additionally, the curing methods and the processing methods followed in producing turkey bacon can help prevent bacterial growth. 

It is recommended to always follow proper sanitary and safety guidelines, including storing, cooking, and also cutting the turkey bacon before and after eating.

10. Easier to Digest

Source : freepik

To most individuals, Turkey meat or bacon is easier to digest than pork meat or bacon. People with sensitive stomachs or digestive problems can benefit from this quality of turkey bacon. 

Turkey meat is considered leaner meat, meaning, it is easily digested. The low-fat content in the turkey bacon also contributes in better digestion as fat is a bit hard substance to digest by a human stomach. High-fat foods are known to slow down digestion or cause bloating, discomfort, or even gas. 

Avoid eating it too much as you must also remember that the high sodium content and other additional preservative may cause people some discomfort or even food poisoning.

11. May Support Thyroid Function

As discussed before, Turkey bacon also contains "Selenium", which is a mineral that supports good thyroid functioning. 

Did you know that the thyroid gland concentrates the highest amount of Selenium in our body? Selenium is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and other important bodily functions. 

Consuming Selenium in the form of turkey bacon, it is indirectly supporting your thyroid health. Selenium Health takes care of hormone production and helps in overall thyroid functioning.

12. Muscle Maintenance

Turkey bacon is high in protein. One serving of turkey bacon has 4-6 grams of protein. It is a very good source of protein for a delicacy. As we all know protein is essential for our muscle development and repair.

Protein plays a vital role as it is beneficial for those engaged in kind of physical activities or weight training. Protein helps in repairing and building muscle tissues, especially after any exercises. 

Turkey bacon, if consumed with a well-balanced set of food, boosts support your overall health. However, it can not be considered a primary source of protein in itself. Moreover, the amino acids present in Turkey protein are considered complete, meaning the content provides essential amino acids to our bodies.

13. Supports Immune Functions

Turkey bacon is loaded with more nutrients than pork bacon. It is typically low in calories, low in fats, especially saturated fats, supporting better heart health. Turkey bacon also contains Zinc, which is a mineral essential for regulating a good immune system.

Zinc is responsible for the development and functioning of immune cells, helping in fighting infectious cells and repairing damaged cells. It also helps in wound healing and blood clots. 

Consuming Turkey bacon regularly can help in your daily zinc intake as well. Including zinc in your daily diet, is beneficial for you as it protects your body from easily getting ill during the Flu and cold seasons. But, it is important to source zinc from varieties of other food options. 

14. May Aid in Blood Sugar Levels

Source : freepik

Protein in Turkey bacon slows down the sugar absorption rate into the bloodstream, preventing sudden sugar spikes and crashes of the blood sugar level.

This specifically helps patients with diabetes or people who have a high risk of getting diabetes. Consuming turkey bacon with balanced food options can make a huge difference in keeping your blood sugar levels steady and avoiding any cravings later on.

Additionally, turkey bacon is low in carbs, making it a suitable option for those who constantly monitor their carb intake for blood sugar management.