By Renee Rogers RD, LDN
Bacon is an “empty calorie” food since it contains calories and fat with little nutrients. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends everyone reduce their consumption of “empty calories”. The average adult consuming 1,600 to 2,200 calories should consume no more than 120 to 265 calories from “empty calories” per day. 1 slice of thick cut bacon contains 60 calories.
Table Amount of Calories in Bacon:
[table id=109 /]
Bacon provides a significant amount of “empty calories” to the American diet. Bacon is high in saturated fat and cholesterol while remaining low in heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat.
Saturated fats tend to raise ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol levels in the blood, increasing risk for heart disease.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends eating smaller amounts of bacon less often to reduce the amount of “empty calories” in your diet and to eat healthier.