Are you watching your calorie intake but still want to enjoy a tasty breakfast? Two slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon packs only 80 calories into your meal. But what are you getting in terms of nutrition? Let's take a closer look.

In those 80 calories, you'll find 7 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and 340 milligrams of sodium. It's not the healthiest food, but it can be a part of a balanced breakfast or meal.

If you're a bacon lover, keep reading to learn more about its nutritional value and how to enjoy it in different ways.

Calories in 2 Slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon

Two slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon contains 80 calories. This is a relatively low calorie count compared to other breakfast meats such as sausage or ham. However, it's important to remember that bacon is not the healthiest food due to its high fat and sodium content. So if you're watching your calorie intake, it's best to consume bacon in moderation.

Fat Content in 2 Slices

In two slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon, there are 7 grams of fat. This is a significant amount considering the recommended daily intake for adults is 44-78 grams depending on caloric needs. Most of the fat in bacon is unhealthy saturated fat, which can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease and high cholesterol. So while bacon is a tasty treat, it's best to enjoy it in moderation.

Protein Content in 2 Slices

Two slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon contain 6 grams of protein, which is a decent amount considering the low calorie count. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues, and it also helps to keep you feeling fuller longer. So including bacon in your breakfast can be a tasty way to add some protein to your meal.

Sodium Content in 2 Slices

In two slices of Hickory Smoked Bacon, there are 340 milligrams of sodium. This is about 15% of the daily recommended intake for adults. While sodium is an essential mineral, consuming too much can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Bacon is a high-sodium food, so it's important to watch your intake and balance it out with other lower-sodium foods.

Vitamins and Minerals in 2 Slices

Bacon contains small amounts of several vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, and zinc. While these nutrients are important for overall health, it's important to remember that bacon is not the healthiest source of them. There are many other foods that are richer in vitamins and minerals but lower in fat and sodium.

Bacon as a Breakfast Food

Bacon is a classic breakfast food that many people love. Its rich flavor pairs well with eggs, toast, and other breakfast favorites. However, it's important to remember that bacon is not the healthiest option for breakfast due to its high fat and sodium content. If you want to include bacon in your breakfast, it's best to balance it out with other healthy foods like fruits and vegetables. You can also try turkey bacon or Canadian bacon, which are lower in fat than traditional bacon.

Bacon as a Sandwich Ingredient

Bacon is a popular ingredient in sandwiches and burgers thanks to its rich flavor. If you want to include bacon in your sandwich, it's best to use it in moderation and choose lower-fat options like turkey bacon. You can also balance out the high-fat content by adding healthy ingredients like lettuce, tomato, and avocado.

Bacon as a Pizza Topping

Bacon is a tasty topping for pizza that can add some extra protein and flavor. However, it's important to be mindful of the high-fat and high-sodium content of bacon. If you're ordering pizza with bacon, try to balance it out with other healthy toppings like vegetables and lean proteins. You can also make your own pizza at home and experiment with healthier alternatives to bacon, like turkey bacon or grilled chicken.

Hickory Bacon vs. Canadian Bacon

While both Hickory Smoked Bacon and Canadian Bacon are breakfast favorites, they have some key differences in terms of nutrition. Hickory Smoked Bacon is a high-fat, high-sodium food that should be enjoyed in moderation. Canadian Bacon, on the other hand, is a leaner option with less fat and sodium. If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional bacon, Canadian Bacon is a great choice.

Bacon Cooking Tips

If you're cooking bacon at home, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results. First, it's important to use a nonstick pan or a well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking. You should also preheat the pan before adding the bacon and cook it over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until it reaches your desired crispy level. Finally, it's important to drain off excess fat by blotting the bacon with paper towels before serving.