If you're a bacon lover, you know there's nothing like the smoky flavor of hardwood smoked bacon. But how does this popular breakfast staple fit into a healthy lifestyle? Two skillet cooked slices of Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon weigh in at 90 calories. But there’s more to the story than just calorie count!

Smoked bacon is a good source of protein and contains important nutrients like vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium. It's also high in fat and sodium, so moderation is key.

In this article, we'll explore the nutrition facts of smoked bacon and healthy ways to incorporate it into your diet.

The Basics of Smoked Bacon Nutrition

Two slices of smoked bacon contain approximately 10 grams of fat, 3.5 grams of saturated fat, and 340 milligrams of sodium. But it's not all bad news! Bacon is also a good source of protein, providing about 6 grams per serving. When shopping for smoked bacon, look for packages that indicate naturally smoked, without added nitrates or nitrites. These can be harmful to your health in the long term. Overall, smoked bacon can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, but it's important to eat it in moderation.

Calorie Count for Two Slices of Smoked Bacon

Two skillet cooked slices of Naturally Hardwood Smoked Bacon weigh in at 90 calories, which is relatively low compared to other breakfast proteins like sausage or ham. However, if you're looking to cut calories even further, consider turkey bacon as a substitute. Two slices of turkey bacon have only 70 calories.

Nutritional Value of Smoked Bacon

Smoked bacon contains important nutrients like vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium. Vitamin B12 is essential for nervous system function and red blood cell production, while niacin supports healthy digestion and skin. Selenium is a mineral that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from damage caused by free radicals. However, smoked bacon is also high in sodium and fat, which can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease when consumed in excess. In moderation, smoked bacon can provide important nutrients to your diet, but keep an eye on your overall intake of fat and sodium.

Healthy Ways of Preparing Smoked Bacon

While pan-frying is a popular way of cooking bacon, it's also high in unhealthy trans fats. Try baking or grilling your bacon instead to reduce the amount of fat and calories. Another way to make your bacon healthier is to blot it with a paper towel to remove excess grease before serving. This can help reduce your overall intake of fat and calories. Experiment with different cooking methods to find the one that suits your taste and dietary needs!

Smoked Bacon and Dietary Restrictions

If you're following a low-sodium diet, smoked bacon may not be the best choice for you. Look for low-sodium bacon options or consider turkey bacon, which is lower in sodium. If you're following a low-fat diet, be mindful of your bacon intake, as it's high in fat. Consider using bacon as a flavor enhancer rather than a main component of your meal. If you're following a vegetarian or vegan diet, there are many plant-based bacon alternatives available made from soy or tempeh.

Smoked Bacon and Weight Management

While smoked bacon can be part of a healthy diet, it's important to keep an eye on your overall calorie intake if you're trying to lose weight. Be mindful of portion sizes and opt for leaner breakfast proteins like turkey bacon or egg whites. Pair your bacon with fruits and vegetables to add volume to your meal without adding extra calories. Remember, weight loss is all about making sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes.

Smoked Bacon and Health Risks

Eating large amounts of smoked bacon on a regular basis has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancer. This is largely due to the high levels of sodium and saturated fat in bacon. To reduce your risk of these health conditions, it's best to limit your intake of smoked bacon and other processed meats. If you're concerned about your risk of heart disease or other health conditions, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

Smoked Bacon as a Breakfast Staple

Smoked bacon is a popular breakfast food in many households around the world. Whether it's served as a side dish or incorporated into a breakfast sandwich, bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to any meal. Pair your bacon with whole grain pancakes or toast and fruit for a balanced breakfast that will keep you energized throughout the morning. Remember, bacon is just one component of a healthy breakfast. Make sure to include other important nutrients like complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein.

Adding Smoked Bacon to Your Recipes

Smoked bacon can add flavor and texture to a variety of dishes beyond breakfast. Try adding it to salads, soups, or vegetable dishes for a smoky twist. You can also use smoked bacon as an ingredient in pasta dishes or casseroles. Just be mindful of your overall calorie and fat intake when using bacon in your cooking. Experiment with different recipes to find new and exciting ways to enjoy the smoky flavor of bacon!

Expert Tips for Cooking the Perfect Smoked Bacon

Use low heat when cooking bacon to prevent it from burning and becoming tough. To reduce the amount of grease and calories in your bacon, try baking it in the oven on a wire rack placed over a sheet pan. For extra flavor, brush your bacon with maple syrup or honey before cooking.