In fact, opting for turkey bacon as the healthier choice can have a negative impact on your health. Both products come from animal proteins, so theyre relatively good sources of B vitamins and minerals like zinc, selenium and phosphorus. But using the USDA nutrition database as a guide, it counts a serving of 2 slices as about 15 grams of bacon which averages around 90 calories, 10-15 mg of cholesterol and about 7 grams of fat . Poultry ingredients (Turkey, Mechanically Separated Turkey), Water, Salt, Sugar, Contains 2% or less of Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavor, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite. Obesity and diabetes are two conditions that drastically increase one's chances of developing a fatty liver. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. But what many people dont realize is that bacon is not always the healthiest food choice, particularly for those with a fatty liver. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of water and limit your intake of alcohol, since alcohol can worsen fatty liver disease. For those who are concerned about the effects of bacon on their liver, moderation is key and it is important to have a well-rounded diet. Low-fat turkey sausage can provide a lot of protein. Nuts are also very high in protein, adds Dr. Lindenmeyer. Examples of other products that could contain trans fats include fried chicken, baked goods, frozen meals, fast food, and packaged snacks like chips and cookies. You can put these rules into practice on-the-go, at work, and at home. Weight loss, particularly in the abdominal or adipose tissue, can help reduce fat in the liver. Low-fat and non-fat dairy products, for example, can help you lose weight by improving your diet. One slice of turkey bacon has about 30 calories, so the calorie count can still add up if you add two to three . Though not a food per se, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a preservative that is found in a variety of foods. Your liver is a hard-working organ that strives to keep you healthy in many ways. Since its a processed meat rich in sodium and preservatives, you should eat it in moderation. Use seasonings and spices in abundance, but just be careful with salt. Additionally, most bacon whether made from turkey or pork contains added sugar unless its labeled as no sugar added.. Dr. Jacobson says, "Obesity presents additional challenges for patients with fatty liver. However, since bacon is usually eaten in small serving sizes, none of the vitamins and minerals found in a slice of turkey bacon exceed 10% of the daily value (DV). For example, you can consider chicken or turkey breasts without skin; pork tenderloin; or beef round, sirloin, or tenderloin. It also pretty much takes care of itself. Turkey vs Chicken: Which Has More Protein? Turkey bacon is dark and light meat turkey seasoned like bacon and pressed into bacon form. Turkey is one of the most nutritious lean meats you can eat. Replacing sausage with turkey bacon would not be a good choice for Natasha, as it still contains high amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol. The salt added to bacon contributes to high blood pressure, a common co-occurring condition with fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome. Go heavy with all of the seasonings that you like, which may include garlic powder, red pepper flakes, turmeric, curry, cumin, oregano, thyme, and basil. Thanksgiving meals tend to revolve around turkey. "Olive oil is very healthy for your liver," notes Dr. Lindenmeyer. (4). Fatty liver disease is caused by an abnormally high level of fat in the liver. Pork bacon offers 20 grams per serving. 5 Starters, 3 Entrees, 4 Sides, 3 Beverages, 3 Desserts. Green tea has also been shown to help with symptoms of fatty liver disease, thanks to its antioxidants. You can also go for small portions of nonfat, low-sugar dairy products like yogurt, which contains all essential amino acids without unhealthy fats. There are many benefits to an honest bowl ofoatmeal. As a result of her visit, Natasha was diagnosed with NAFLD, or Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Excess saturated fat intake also increases cholesterol and triglycerides, which can lead to the build of arterial plaques that obstruct blood flow. Turkey used fed an organic diet. Whole-grain bread, sprouted brown rice, quinoa, whole-grain buckwheat pasta, and rolled oats are excellent substitutes for your favorite carb-heavy dishes. As a nutritionist, some of my clients ask me if turkey bacon is a better alternative to traditional pork-based bacon. Foods such as deep fried foods, processed snacks, sugary drinks, bakery items and sweets, full-fat dairy products, red and processed meats, sugary sauces and syrups, and alcohol should all be avoided. But as it plays a lot of important roles in your body, it can be helpful to keep up with a balanced diet. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. However, assumptions that this tryptophan-rich meat induces sleepiness are false. One serving: 2 slices (15 g), 90 calories, 7 g fat, 2.5 g saturated fat, 270 mg sodium, 0 g carbs, 5 g protein. A breakfast sandwich is an ideal choice for those who prefer to travel with it. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Its also important to choose brands that produce cans that are free of BPA. In larger serving sizes, the sodium content can quickly add up (2). Believing its the better option, you may eat too much, Jeffers says. The World Cancer Research Fund International suggests eating little to no processed meat, to protect against potential cancer risks. Add onions to the pot and cook over medium heat stirring occasionally until the onions are caramelized. Does Bacon and Other Processed Meat Cause Cancer? Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain bread and brown rice, can be beneficial to health, as can diets rich in complex carbohydrates. Cooking Bacon In Your Hotel Room Is Easier Than You Think! As with bacon made from pork, turkey bacon is high in saturated fat and sodium two substances that put you at greater risk for developing heart disease, she says. This Should Perk You Up: The Surprising Health Benefits of Coffee, 6 Sore Throat Remedies That Actually Work. If you just have fat but no damage to your liver, the disease is called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The marbled white fat that is found throughout bacon strips is saturated fat, which is a major contributor to weight gain, metabolic conditions, and cardiovascular disease. These fresh foods are filled with micronutrients and macronutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, healthy fats, fiber, and protein that help you fight against fatty liver disease and reduce the amount of fat in the liver. Statements made have not been evaluated by the FDA. Chicken is a great option for those who have fatty liver. It is not necessary to follow any dietary guidelines, meal time recommendations, or schedules. Small portions of fresh chicken breast and turkey breast provide all essential amino acids without the unhealthy fats. Astudypublished in theCanadian Journal of Gastroenterologydiscovered that soda consumption alone increased the risk of developing fatty liver disease. Turkey bacon has roughly 25% fewer calories and 35% less saturated fat than pork bacon (2, 3). You'll also receive our newsletter and special offers to support liver health. Two ounces of turkey bacon has more than 1,900 milligrams of sodium. Comparatively, the same-size portion of pork bacon provides roughly 40 calories, 3 g of fat, 3.5 g of protein, no carbs or fiber, and 162 mg of sodium. Fiber and protein are important for keeping you full and preventing large blood sugar swings. Contains Healthy Fats Most people tend to think that fat makes you fat, clogs your arteries, and more, but that's just not the case. In addition, astudy from 2017suggests that as oats and oatmeal are high in soluble fibers called beta-glucans, they may also help prevent obesity and inflammation. So, eating a sufficient amount of leanprotein is important.. Red meat and processed meat increase the risk of cancer, primarily colorectal cancer. Policy. 2023 Fabi and Rosi. Try working these nuts into your salads or daily meals: There are more than enough reasons to add greens to your diet. Results found that BPA intake among adolescents particularly Hispanic adolescents is associated with a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease. Metabolic health and liver function are harmed when foods contain a lot of saturated fat, added sugars, and refined grains. One slice of turkey bacon also has 164 milligrams (mg) of sodium which is about 7% of the maximum recommended daily intake for healthy adults. 7 Ways to Lose Weight if You Have Hepatitis, 9 Vitamins and Minerals You Should Take Daily, Why Women Who Dont Drink Can Still Get Cirrhosis. There are about 1.3 grams of saturated fat, versus two grams in pork bacon. There is no way to know whether curing these types of meat will kill any HEV traces on its own. Talk with a nutritionist to determine how much chicken to eat based on your specific needs. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, a highly nutritious fat that supports liver function and quells inflammation associated with fatty liver disease. Additionally, milk can help prevent the development of some types of liver cancer. Additionally, adding a cup of green tea to your breakfast can help reduce inflammation and promote liver health. Turkey bacon provides 17 grams. As your liver is in charge of controlledblood clotformation in the body, vitamin K is a crucial nutrient that assists your liver with this role. Ice cream is a dairy product filled with added sugars and saturated fat, both of which contribute to fatty liver disease and associated risk factors. Many studies have found that regularly eating processed meats may increase your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes by 18% and 27%, respectively (9, 10). Turkey also contains less saturated fat which makes it a good choice for those concerned with a fatty liver. If you avoid pork, turkey bacon can be a good substitute. If you have fatty liver, consuming chicken may help you maintain a healthy weight. Bacon is a particularly fatty cut of meat. Eating chicken can help reduce the amount of fat stored in the liver, which can reduce inflammation and improve liver function. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Its one of the only organs that can regenerate itself, says liver specialistChristina Lindenmeyer, MD. Micronutrients present in all of these seasonings have antioxidant properties and protect against liver damage and help reverse fatty liver disease. While turkey bacon is still a good source of protein, it contains roughly 20% less protein per serving than traditional pork bacon. Boasts an impressive nutrition profile. Meat processors use sodium nitrite because it: Whole grain foods, such as oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa, are also beneficial. Symptomatic participants reported fatigue, joint pain, and headaches, while those who were asymptomatic reported only minor symptoms. Eating smaller meals more frequently with shorter intervals between them can help you absorb more food. If you choose turkey bacon, follow these tips for the healthiest outcome: With any food that claims to be healthier, its important to be armed with the facts, Jeffers says. The level of saturated fat is still high, however, with 4 grams vs. 8 grams, respectively. Chicken and turkey are two popular protein sources, but you may wonder if one is better than the other. Your diet should be part of a larger lifestyle change to help you lose weight and keep it off. The salt added to bacon contributes to high blood pressure, a common co-occurring condition with fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome. Turkey and pork bacon contain roughly the same amount of zinc, which helps control gene activity. According to studies, a diet rich in high fiber foods, such as oats, has been shown to lower triglyceride levels in people who suffer from NAFLD. No one food can make or break the healthfulness of your diet. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. There is some evidence that vitamin E could have a positive effect on the liver health of people with NAFLD. The fat content of whole milk is 7.8 grams, with saturated fat content being 4.7 grams. Protein: 24 grams. Turkey, especially turkey breast without the skin, fits the bill for a liver-friendly food. It depends on the individual and the severity of their condition. And Whats The Best Treatment? Bacon made from turkey has moderate amounts of vitamin B6, zinc, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium, but slightly less of all these essential nutrients than pork bacon. In an effort to add sweetness and flavor, some companies will add sugar to this pork bacon alternative . Portions are always an important consideration as well as the nutritional details., Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, as well as nutrient-dense foods, are the best foods to eat in order to be healthy. If youre looking to add more oatmeal to your diet, try adding steel-cut oats or whole grain oats to your grocery cart instead of instant oatmeal. This is a positive thing about the keto diet. Market Pantry Hardwood Smoked Classic Cut Bacon. Some other options for getting the same nutrients that turkey has are: Unless you are a vegetarian, are susceptible to high uric acid levels, or are adhering to an extremely low-protein diet, dont hesitate to help yourself to turkey this Thanksgiving. Every week, do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as walking or cycling. If youre craving something fatty, stick to healthy fat options like nuts, seeds, fatty fish, and certain oils like olive oil. Mainly, olives are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants two things your liver loves. Should You Pay Attention to Red Meat Guidelines? Examples of fresh plant-based foods that promote liver health include avocados, blueberries, cranberries, oranges, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds. Try to do 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise on at least five days per week. Alcohol metabolism also produces free radicals that damage liver cells. In addition, some canned food items contain a chemical called bisphenol-A (BPA). For people watching their sodium intake, reduced-sodium turkey bacon is an option. Some people dont eat pork, including those with pork allergies or intolerances and those who avoid it for religious or health reasons. Eating the right foods can help you manage and reverse fatty liver disease. The preservatives added to bacon like salt and artificial nitrates and nitrites are detrimental for your health. Extra calories can be burned by reducing your daily diet or increasing your physical activity. (3). (1)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2661299/, (2)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26843032, (3)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796302/, (4)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3192664/, (5)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2724042/, Your Ultimate Guide to Stress Relief: Stress Management Activities and Strategies to Counteract Fatty Liver Disease. A protein shake is an excellent option if you are not hungry in the morning. What Happens to a Person that has Compensated Cirrhosis? It has been proven to reduce fat accumulation in the liver and reduce inflammation, which can improve liver function. However, it's still processed meat. With a Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience from the University of Rochester and a Master's degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine from Five Branches Institute, Nicole has been a licensed acupuncturist since 2000. (2). Diet and exercise are the most effective ways of treating fatty liver disease. Milk is a dairy product that provides a great deal of protein, and there is some evidence to suggest that it may be beneficial for people who have cirrhosis. Picture of organic uncured turkey bacon made from turkey thighs. A beef liver dish with bacon and caramelized onions is high in nutrients. But, according to dietitian Laura Jeffers, MEd, RD, LD, this substitute is still high in saturated fat and sodium and doesnt carry as many health benefits as many believe. MSG may enhance the flavor of some foods, but research shows that MSG may play a role in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Lean meats, such as chicken, fish, and tofu, are preferable to high-fat options. It tastes awesome and goes with almost any food. If you prefer a more savory breakfast, you can make avocado toast on English muffins. Discover the science behind the ketogenic diet in our advanced guide to starting the Keto Diet. Turkey is rich in nutrients. If you have high cholesterol, you should talk with your doctor about what you eat, including meat. . Frequently seen on national TV, she's Health's contributing nutrition editor and counsels clients one-on-one through her virtual private practice. Mostly because it gives you that healthy boost offiber. Fat: 2 grams. What Are Tense Ascites? A beef liver dish with bacon and caramelized onions is high in nutrients. Butter and cream: Always go for dairy from grass . Nuts can pack a punch when it comes to their nutritional value. Other foods similar to white bread that should be avoided are white rice, white pasta, cookies, crackers, chips, and baked goods. Eat These 5 Foods To Ease Your PMS Symptoms, These 6 Foods Are Tied to Weight GainHere Are Their Healthy Alternatives, Want to Live Longer? Most interestingly, the study revealed that soda consumption increased fatty liver risk independent of traditional risk factors like diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. Protein: 3 grams . Lose Weight. Additionally, limiting alcohol intake and avoiding added sugars and processed foods will help to improve liver health. Foods high in glycemic carbohydrates, such as white bread and many commercial breakfast cereals, should not be consumed because they can contribute to fatty liver disease. If you have a fatty liver, chicken can be a good addition to your diet because it is a good source of lean protein. With the right combination of healthy foods and lifestyle changes, a fatty liver diet can help to improve liver health and reduce fat accumulation. If youre having trouble with your liver, drink plenty of green tea and low-fat dairy products. This article explores the health effects of processed meat. As a result, before embarking on a diet in which eggs are a part, we recommend consulting a nutritionist. Milk has been found to be beneficial for people with fatty liver disease. To avoid MSG, steer clear of fast food and packaged foods. It is also a good source of protein. However, most varieties contain added sugar and synthetic preservatives unless indicated otherwise. To protect your liver, make sure to look for canned foods that are low in sodium and low in sugar. Can eating chicken (boiled or cooked) help with liver health? Avocado is a healthy, fatty substitute that works well as a topping for toast or a creamy addition to smoothies and shakes. Turkey bacon is often praised as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon. When it comes to the liver benefits of turkey, some may not be able to feast on this lean meat. The esteemed turkey is the highlight of most Thanksgiving meals. They reduced fat buildup in the liver as a result of soy and whey protein consumption. Symptoms Its made by shaping a seasoned mixture of finely chopped turkey into strips that resemble traditional bacon. Eating too much bacon can lead to an increase in dietary fat, which can strain and overload the liver. However, some people have raised concerns over potentially harmful compounds. You may be able to lose weight by undergoing weight loss surgery in the future. The diet should be low in calories and fat, high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. With so many options, it can be difficult to find the right food to eat. It shouldnt be coffee that youre loading up with sugar and creamer.. It is best to avoid fatty and sugary foods, which are known to increase fat accumulation in the liver, especially if you are overweight or obese. Sweet potatoes are filled with beta carotene, vitamin C, fiber, and potassium to help lower inflammation and promote liver repair. These healthier proteins promote a more balanced diet, while also helping your liver do its importantwork which is a win-win! This study is just one of the recent examples in the literature showing a strong . Its typically pan-fried, microwaved or baked in the oven until golden and crispy. This may be because nitrites are also converted to nitric oxide, a compound that may lower blood pressure (8). It is beneficial to have a variety of high protein breakfast ideas on hand to ensure that you are getting the necessary amount of protein and essential amino acids in your morning meal. All Rights Reserved. Its made by chopping or grinding turkey meat, adding seasonings and preservatives and then pressing the mix into bacon-like strips (1). Fatty liver is also known as hepatic steatosis. It is a leaner alternative to pork bacon and has fewer calories. Overall, the amount of sugar in both regular and turkey bacon is very low less than 1 gram per serving but it can add up, especially for people on very low-carb diets. Consuming high amounts of sugar takes a toll on the entire body, including the liver. Its savory, salty flavor adds great flavor to a variety of dishes. This is the same fatty acid that olive oil is praised for and generally considered "heart-healthy" ( 1. As with traditional pork bacon, eat it sparingly. Here are the protein, fat, and energy data for beef liver by raw and cooked (braised) weight (7, 8). Two thick slices (84 grams) of turkey contain ( 1 ): Calories: 117. While turkey bacon is sometimes touted as a low-fat substitute for swine bacon, it has a comparable nutritional profile and includes substantial levels of saturated fat. Broccoli inhibit the buildup of fat in mices livers. Adding alcohol to a diet high in added sugars, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and preservatives can be equated to adding fuel to a fire. Furthermore, it has been proposed that eating such a diet can help to prevent the diseases progression. Avoid highly processed meats (bacon, ham, lunchmeat, etc. Some manufacturers even use stripes of light and dark meat to mimic the look of traditional bacon pieces. While bacon is high in saturated fat, it is also a source of many essential nutrients that may be beneficial for those with fatty liver. To start, eat foods with complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. About 10% to 20% of Americans have NAFLD. It is advantageous to consume low-fat or fat-free dairy foods in order to reduce your saturated fat intake. However, its still a relatively high-calorie food, with 30 calories per slice more than half of which comes from fat. Speak with your doctor about the procedure. However, dietary nitrates such as those found in whole vegetables may have health benefits that outweigh the potential health risks of these compounds. Salmon Benny Breakfast Bombs This combination of salmon, eggs, and bacon with hollandaise sauce is an incredible way to start the day . Those with chronic liver concerns have several justifiable reasons to enjoy consuming turkey during this food-centric holiday and even to include it on their food shopping list throughout the year. People who eat higher amounts of processed meat products also appear to be at greater risk of developing certain cancers. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are all high in micronutrients that support liver health and metabolism. What Does It Mean to Have an Opioid Overdose? Because fatty liver disease is often associated with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, weight loss is one of the primary goalsand diet can help with this. Moreover, drinking soda in and of itself appears to raise the likelihood of developing fatty liver disease, aside from its contribution to associated risk factors. In addition to increasing your risk of heart disease, high sodium intake raises the likelihood of kidney stones. She is currently the nutrition consultant for UCLA's Executive Health program. All rights reserved. While more research is still necessary, a series ofanimal studieshave suggested that cranberries and blueberries could improve liver health, too. Living with a liver ailment typically requires analysis of everything you eat. Here's What a Nutritionist Really Thinks, Eating Shrimp: Health Benefits, Nutritional Data, and Warnings, The Best and Worst Choices in Every Food Group, How To Cook Your Food for the Biggest Health Benefits, Psoriatic Arthritis Diet: Which Foods to Eat, and Which to Limit, According to Experts, 21 Worthless Foods a Nutritionist Will Immediately Cut From Your Diet, America's Healthiest Superfoods for Women, What Is a Semi-Vegetarian Diet, and Is It Healthy? It should also include foods that are high in healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados, and nuts, as well as lean proteins, such as fish, tofu, and lean meats. It is always a good idea to choose raw, unsalted options. In turn, serotonin is used to make melatonin, a hormone that helps control sleep and wake cycles. A direct substitute for fast food French fries is homemade sweet potato fries. The USDA defines an extra-lean cut of beef as a 3.5-ounce serving (about 100 grams) that contains less than:. Including antioxidants in your diet is something that your liver (andother parts of yourbody) will thank you for. The preservatives present in bacon arent the only factors that have consequences for liver health. Cleveland Clinic 1995-2023. Proteins normally help the body repair tissue. If youre craving something sweet, stick to natural sugars found in whole fruits. Also, according to the UDSA, some turkey bacon products may also contain other meats, like pork. Does Eating Pork Increase Your Cholesterol Levels? With traditional pork bacon, we know we're frying up the fatty cut of the belly. The majority of processed meats, including bacon, deli meat (ham, turkey, salami and pepperoni), breakfast sausage, hot dogs or even canned soup with meat, are prepared with the preservative sodium nitrite. Nutritionists agree that eating whole foods as part of a varied diet is the ideal route for getting what your body needs; however, this isnt always feasible. you might call this a type of Mediterranean diet but the olive oil is specifically a medicine. 10 grams total fat; 4.5 grams saturated fat; 95 milligrams cholesterol; Extra-lean cuts of beef. Lean cuts of beef. Plus, phytosterols found in many plant-based fats have been shown to lower cholesterol and fight against metabolic risk factors associated with fatty liver disease. If you take the time to make small, achievable changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing fatty liver disease. Adding freshly brewed green tea to your daily routine will also promote liver health. Trans fat is a type of fat formed through industrial processes. Sodium: If you dont 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. Some natural brands of turkey bacon advertise that they are nitrate- or nitrite-free, but they often still use celery powder, a vegetable extract that is a rich source of natural nitrates.