There’s nothing quite like a crispy bit of bacon to feed that salt craving. But before you pop that savory deliciousness into your mouth, do you need to double-check? Can pregnant women eat bacon? Well, yes, but keeping it in moderation is probably a good idea! Well, bacon contains high amounts of fat and salt, so it isn’t the healthiest food option, though it can be enjoyed when fully cooked during pregnancy.
Here are all the deets you need to know about bacon in pregnancy, including that all-important question — how frequently can a pregnant woman eat bacon?
Pregnancy comes with a whole new set of dietary guidelines. While some foods need to be avoided, many women wonder if they can still enjoy foods like turkey bacon during pregnancy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore if turkey bacon is safe in pregnancy, potential risks and benefits, and healthier bacon alternatives to consider.
An Overview of Turkey Bacon in Pregnancy
Turkey bacon has become a popular lower-fat alternative to regular pork bacon. But when you’re eating for two it’s natural to question if processed meats like turkey bacon are off-limits.
The key factors to consider are:
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Nitrate/nitrite content – Most bacon contains nitrates/nitrites to preserve and add color. High intake may increase risk of complications. Opt for nitrate-free turkey bacon when possible.
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Fat content – Turkey bacon is leaner than pork bacon but still contains fat Eat in moderation as part of a balanced diet
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Preparation – Thoroughly cook turkey bacon to avoid bacteria. Aim for crispy bacon heated to 165°F.
Overall, having an occasional serving of fully-cooked turkey bacon is unlikely to pose major health risks in pregnancy. But alternatives provide more nutrition without the processed meat concerns.
Potential Benefits of Turkey Bacon in Pregnancy
Compared to regular bacon, turkey bacon offers some advantages:
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Lower in fat and calories – Turkey bacon typically contains less saturated fat and calories per serving compared to pork bacon. This can benefit pregnant women monitoring their weight.
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Provides protein – Turkey bacon contains protein to support fetal growth and development. Around 25g of protein daily is ideal during pregnancy.
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May satisfy cravings – Many pregnant women experience intense savory cravings. A small amount of turkey bacon can provide satisfaction without excess calories.
As long as it’s nitrate-free and enjoyed in moderation, turkey bacon can offer lean protein, satisfaction, and fewer calories compared to regular bacon.
Potential Risks of Consuming Turkey Bacon While Pregnant
However, some potential drawbacks need consideration:
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Nitrates/nitrites – Most turkey bacon contains sodium nitrate or nitrite to preserve color and shelf life. Studies link high nitrate/nitrite intake to complications like preterm birth.
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Bacteria risk – Just like raw meat and poultry, raw bacon may contain salmonella, listeria, or other harmful bacteria if undercooked.
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High sodium – Turkey bacon contains a lot more sodium per ounce compared to fresh poultry. High sodium intake can increase swelling and blood pressure.
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Processed meat concerns – Bacon is considered a processed red meat. The WHO links frequent processed meat intake to increased cancer risk.
To minimize risks, pregnant women should consume turkey bacon in moderation, choose nitrate-free varieties, and cook it thoroughly before eating.
Healthier Bacon Alternatives During Pregnancy
Ideally, processed meats like bacon should be limited in pregnancy when possible. Some healthier alternatives provide flavor without the same concerns:
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Lean turkey or chicken – Lean cuts of fresh turkey or chicken can provide protein and satisfaction by adding your own seasoning.
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Plant-based bacon – Bacon-flavored tempeh, tofu or mushrooms have the taste without the fat, sodium or meat.
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Eggs – Eggs are very versatile protein sources that can be cooked in different ways to replace bacon’s texture.
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Nuts and seeds – Toasted nuts or seeds provide crunch and smoky flavor to salads or breakfasts.
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Salmon – Smoked salmon gives a salty, smoky flavor to dishes in smaller servings than bacon.
Focusing on nutritious whole foods will ensure you and your growing baby get the best nourishment during pregnancy. But the occasional small serving of turkey bacon is unlikely to cause harm.
The Takeaway on Turkey Bacon and Pregnancy
Many pregnant women can continue to enjoy turkey bacon in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet. To stay safe:
- Consume turkey bacon in small servings no more than 2-3 times per week
- Opt for nitrate-free varieties whenever possible
- Cook turkey bacon fully until crispy to avoid bacteria
- Choose healthier alternatives like eggs, nuts, salmon, or plant-based bacon more often
As with any food, it’s wise to check with your doctor about any dietary restrictions based on your individual health status. With mindful preparation and portion control, an occasional serving of turkey bacon can be part of an overall nutritious prenatal diet. But emphasize more wholesome alternatives for optimal nourishment during this important time.
Can pregnant women eat turkey bacon?
Turkey bacon can be a healthier alternative to regular bacon, as it is lower in fat and calories.
However, turkey bacon is still a processed meat.
It doesn’t have that same satisfying crunch as a crispy slice of pork bacon, but it is safe when fully cooked and might crush that craving.
Can pregnant women eat uncured bacon?
If the big concern is around nitrates, can you worry less about eating uncured bacon?
Uncured bacon is still cured, but using natural preservatives.
It still contains high levels of fat and sodium though, so should be eaten in moderation.
So if you want to avoid bacon for now, what kind of alternatives do you have? Let’s take a look.
Is turkey bacon healthier than the regular stuff?
FAQ
Is turkey meat safe during pregnancy?
Is turkey sausage safe during pregnancy?
Is turkey bacon OK to eat?
Why can’t I eat a turkey sandwich while pregnant?
Can I eat bacon if I’m Pregnant?
A preterm birth can sometimes cause health complications for babies. Limit bacon and other processed and sandwich meats like sausages, ham, and smoked fish in your diet, when you’re pregnant and when you’re not. Bacon is a kind of red meat, like beef and lamb. All red meat is high in saturated and unsaturated fats.
Is it safe to eat crab meat during pregnancy?
It is safe to eat crab meat during pregnancy as long as it comes from a reliable source, with appropriate hygienic and sanitary conditions for pre-preparation, preparation and packaging of this food.
Are bacon bits safe during pregnancy?
Bacon bits are best made yourself (see ideas above) but there are also commercially made bacon bits available in stores. Commercially-made bacon bits are pregnancy safe if they’re the canned/non-refrigerated kind. If they’re 100% bacon bits in a fridge (like the Oscar Mayer ones), treat them as you would whole bacon slices and heat them first.
Is Bacon a carcinogen if you’re pregnant?
This classifies it as a carcinogen, the effects of which are heightened for pregnant people. “The consumption of bacon, hot dogs, pastrami, and lunch meats, even prior to conception in women, increases the risk of childhood cancers, autism, and brain tumors in their offspring,” Dr. Fuhrman told POPSUGAR.