Are you a bacon lover but worried about the calories? Look no further than 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon, which has just 70 calories. This delicious meat is a favorite among many for its rich, smoky flavor that makes any dish more satisfying.
But it's not just about the taste - this bacon is also loaded with essential nutrients that can benefit your health. Just two slices provide 3 grams of protein, 8% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B1, and 6% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin B12.
If you're on a keto or low-carb diet, 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon can also fit into your meal plan. The high fat content can contribute to a feeling of satiety, while the low carb content helps keep your blood sugar levels steady.
High in Calories but Rich in Flavor
Bacon is often criticized for its high calorie content, but there's no denying that it's one of the tastiest meats out there. The smoky flavor of 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon can enhance any dish, from breakfast to dinner. In moderation, bacon can be a part of a healthy diet. Just be sure to balance it out with plenty of nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
Loaded with Essential Nutrients
While bacon is often viewed as an indulgent food, it actually has some nutritional benefits. 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon, in particular, contain important vitamins like B1 and B12, which play a crucial role in energy production and nerve function. Bacon is also a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. And thanks to its high fat content, it can help you feel full and satisfied when added to a meal.
Perfect for Keto and Low-Carb Diets
If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon can be a great addition to your meal plan. With just 1 gram of carbs per serving, it won't knock you out of ketosis or raise your blood sugar levels. Plus, the high fat content of bacon can help keep you feeling full and satisfied, which is important when you're limiting your carb intake. Just be sure to balance it out with plenty of non-starchy vegetables and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil.
A Great Source of Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient that plays many important roles in the body. It helps build and repair tissues, supports immune function, and even helps with weight management by promoting feelings of fullness. 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon provide 3 grams of protein, which can help contribute to your daily needs. Consider adding it to your breakfast or lunch to help you power through your day.
Bacon, like all meats, contains a variety of amino acids that are important for maintaining a healthy metabolism. These amino acids help build and repair tissues in the body, support hormone production, and even aid in the digestion of food. While more research is needed, some studies have suggested that a high-protein diet like one that includes bacon may help boost metabolism and support weight loss. However, it's important to remember that moderation is key, and too much bacon (or any meat) can have negative health effects.
Can Be Part of a Balanced Breakfast
Many people enjoy bacon as part of a hearty breakfast, and 2 fried slices (15 g) Center Cut Bacon can fit into a balanced meal plan. Pair it with some eggs and whole grain toast for a satisfying meal that will keep you full until lunchtime. Just be sure to balance it out with plenty of fruits and vegetables, which provide important vitamins and minerals that can support overall health.
A Delicious Addition to Salads and Sandwiches
Bacon isn't just for breakfast - it can also be a tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Crumble it up and sprinkle it on top of a salad for a smoky crunch, or add it to a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra boost of flavor. Just be sure to keep an eye on portion sizes, as bacon can be high in calories and fat. And opt for nitrate-free or low sodium options when possible to reduce your risk of health issues like high blood pressure.
Available in Different Varieties
There's no shortage of bacon varieties to choose from, including smoked, applewood, and maple-flavored. Each type has its own unique flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite. Just be sure to read the labels carefully, as some types of bacon can be high in sodium or other additives. Look for options with simple, whole food ingredients when possible.
Ideal for Cooking and Baking
Bacon isn't just a tasty addition to meals - it can also be used in cooking and baking. Try wrapping chicken or vegetables in bacon before roasting for a smoky flavor, or add it to a quiche or frittata for extra protein. Just be sure to cook bacon thoroughly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, and use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can be Enjoyed in Moderation
While bacon can be a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet, it's important to enjoy it in moderation. Too much bacon (or any type of meat) can increase your risk of health issues like heart disease, cancer, and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends limiting your intake of saturated fat - which is found in high amounts in bacon - to no more than 5-6% of your total daily calories. That means if you're on a 2,000 calorie per day diet, you should aim for no more than 13 grams of saturated fat per day.
Everything in moderation, including moderation.
5 FAQ about Center Cut Bacon
1. How many calories are in two fried slices of Center Cut Bacon?
There are 70 calories in two fried slices (15 g) of Center Cut Bacon.
2. Is Center Cut Bacon a healthy food choice?
Like most bacon, Center Cut Bacon is high in fat and sodium. While it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, it is not considered a particularly healthy food choice.
3. How should Center Cut Bacon be cooked?
Center Cut Bacon can be fried in a pan on the stove or baked in the oven. It should be cooked until crispy and browned to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
4. What is the difference between Center Cut Bacon and regular bacon?
Center Cut Bacon comes from the center of the pork belly, whereas regular bacon can be cut from any part of the belly. Center Cut Bacon is generally leaner and has less fat than regular bacon.
5. How can I include Center Cut Bacon in my diet?
Center Cut Bacon can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. However, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.