Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. To avoid MSG, steer clear of fast food and packaged foods. As a result, before embarking on a diet in which eggs are a part, we recommend consulting a nutritionist. Pork bacon offers 20 grams per serving. High saturated fat content contributes to heart disease. Turkey and pork bacon products also contain preservatives especially nitrates or nitrites which slow spoilage, enhance the pink color of the meat and contribute to taste (4). Both products come from animal proteins, so theyre relatively good sources of B vitamins and minerals like zinc, selenium and phosphorus. Learn how to start a low-carb, high-fat diet and reach ketosis. 1 Benefits Astudypublished in theCanadian Journal of Gastroenterologydiscovered that soda consumption alone increased the risk of developing fatty liver disease. Though it contains less fat and fewer calories, turkey bacon is still highly processed and may contain ingredients that may not be ideal for your health if eaten in large amounts. Avoid highly processed meats (bacon, ham, lunchmeat, etc. It shouldnt be coffee that youre loading up with sugar and creamer.. 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. 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 . Other expert panels have made similar recommendations. 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. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of water and limit your intake of alcohol, since alcohol can worsen fatty liver disease. 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. Picture of organic uncured turkey bacon made from turkey thighs. In addition to her acupuncture practice that focuses on stress and pain relief, digestion, immunity and oncology, Nicole contributes to the integration of healthcare by writing articles for professional massage therapists and people living with liver disease. If you do not, please check your spam/junk folder. Is Bacon Bad for You, or Good? Bacon and other processed meats have negative consequences for liver health. Speak with your doctor about the procedure. 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. It is possible that eating a diet rich in whole-grain, fiber-rich foods reduces the risk of developing NAFLD-related diseases. According to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), people with fatty liver disease should avoid or limit alcohol and added sugars. Many are concerned about health issues related to conventional baconincluding the increased risk of cancer that's associated with processed red meat. That small serving will provide you with: Calories: 32. Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are savory Italian sweet sausage, bacon bits, and Mascarpone cheese stuffed inside. 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. Turkey bacon is often praised as a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon. 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). High fat diets can also cause fatty liver disease, a condition where fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and damage. Eating smaller meals more frequently with shorter intervals between them can help you absorb more food. Fatty liver disease means you have extra fat in your liver. Chicken is a great option for those who have fatty liver. It is also a great source of protein. This article explores the health effects of processed meat. Theliver. Believing its the better option, you may eat too much, Jeffers says. Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., MTCM, Dipl. It is best to consume smaller portions of meat and dairy as a general rule. They are thought to produce harmful, cancer-causing compounds called nitrosamines (6). When your bodys cells are damaged, you can use insulin more easily, or inflammation can be reduced to help you reverse the condition. Eating too much bacon can lead to an increase in dietary fat, which can strain and overload the liver. Obesity and diabetes are two conditions that drastically increase one's chances of developing a fatty liver. Walnuts contain a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, which may aid in the treatment of fatty liver disease. Eating chicken can help reduce the amount of fat stored in the liver, which can reduce inflammation and improve liver function. In addition, it is critical to remember that not all carbohydrates are created equal. Theres a lot of anti-inflammatory antioxidants in fruits likeblueberries.. This article reviews the nutritional profile of turkey bacon, determining whether its truly a healthier choice. Living with a liver ailment typically requires analysis of everything you eat. A healthier alternative would be to use lean turkey or chicken sausage, or to opt for plant-based . If you take the time to make small, achievable changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing fatty liver disease. Some research suggests that vitamins D , B9 . Your eating habits will be unique to you, and you and your doctor will need to work together to create a plan that works for you. All of these metabolic conditions are associated with fatty liver disease. Frequently seen on national TV, she's Health's contributing nutrition editor and counsels clients one-on-one through her virtual private practice. The almond is a popular tree nut that is loaded with important nutrients. You can put these rules into practice on-the-go, at work, and at home. Consuming high amounts of sugar takes a toll on the entire body, including the liver. The fiber present in whole fruits effectively slows down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream and prevents blood sugar spikes. A protein shake is an excellent option if you are not hungry in the morning. 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. Turkey bacon packs a lot of sodium, which is added as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. Extra calories can be burned by reducing your daily diet or increasing your physical activity. The liver needs certain nutrients from the food we eat in order to function properly. If you have fat in your liver plus signs of inflammation and liver cell damage, the disease is called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). If you want a healthy, protein-packed breakfast, try one of these recipes. Purines are broken down in the body to form uric acid. When we drink soda, the glucose from the added sugar is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing blood glucose levels to skyrocket. Turkey bacon is dark and light meat turkey seasoned like bacon and pressed into bacon form. Turkey used fed an organic diet. 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. With so many options, it can be difficult to find the right food to eat. Instead of processed, refined carbs, choose whole-grain, spouted versions. She has gathered acupuncture licenses in the states of California and New York, is a certified specialist with the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, has earned diplomat status with the National Commission of Chinese and Oriental Medicine in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology and is a member of the Society for Integrative Oncology. Its been shown that it can lower your liver enzymes, which suggests that it improves inflammation in your liver., Its even been recommended that people withfatty liver diseaseshould drink three or more cups of coffee a day. On the go, eating a protein-rich breakfast burrito is an excellent choice. Eating the right foods can help you manage and reverse fatty liver disease. Low-fat turkey sausage can provide a lot of protein. Diet is a critical factor when it comes to preventing and reversing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines turkey bacon as a product made by combining minced or chopped smoked turkey with seasonings, coloring, and preservatives. Pork bacon comes from the belly of a pig. Proteins normally help the body repair tissue. Alcohol certainly plays a role in alcohol-induced fatty liver disease, but it also contributes to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as well. Mostly because it gives you that healthy boost offiber. 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. There is no way to know whether curing these types of meat will kill any HEV traces on its own. Olive oil is very healthy for your liver, notes Dr. Lindenmeyer. You can cook it the same way as traditional bacon. When bacon is cooked, the preservatives react with pork protein to produce harmful compounds called nitrosamines. Turkey bacon is made by pressing seasoned turkey mixture into strips to look like traditional pork bacon. Acetaldehyde is a toxic compound that causes oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in the liver, contributing significantly to fat accumulation in liver tissues. No nitrites or nitrates added. Fatty liver disease is caused by an abnormally high level of fat in the liver. 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. Meat processors use sodium nitrite because it: It is always a good idea to choose raw, unsalted options. Since its a processed meat rich in sodium and preservatives, you should eat it in moderation. In addition to increasing your risk of heart disease, high sodium intake raises the likelihood of kidney stones. The Keto Diet The keto diet aims to force your body into using a different type of fuel. Chicken and turkey are two popular protein sources, but you may wonder if one is better than the other. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for fatty liver disease, nor is there a specific diet to follow. The liver is a good source of vitamin A (36,000 IU in 4 ounces). Lean cuts of beef. However, dietary nitrates such as those found in whole vegetables may have health benefits that outweigh the potential health risks of these compounds. Over time, too much alcohol. A nutrient-dense, whole-food-based diet rich in fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats is generally recommended for those with NAFLD. Protein is an important micronutrients in the liver that promotes liver recovery and fat loss. FREE standard shipping only available in the contiguous United States. A beef liver dish with bacon and caramelized onions is high in nutrients. Turkey, especially turkey breast without the skin, fits the bill for a liver-friendly food. Condiments: You can still use salt, pepper, and other various herbs and spices. http://www.ehow.com/about_5092603_vitamins-liver.html, What Vitamins Help the Liver?, Sarah DeWitt Ince, Retrieved September 15, 2013, Demand Media, Inc., 2013. http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/turkey-breast-vs-chicken-breast.html#b, Turkey Breast vs. Chicken Breast, Retrieved September 15, 2013, Internet Brands, Inc., 2013. https://www.liversupport.com//four-nuts-that-support-your-liver/, Four Nuts that Support Your Liver, Nicole Cutler, L.Ac., Retrieved September 15, 2013, Natural Wellness, 2013. http://www.livestrong.com/article/238506-black-bean-nutritional-facts/, Black Bean Nutritional Facts, Molly McAdams, Retrieved September 15, 2013, Demand Media, Inc., 2013. https://www.njfcu.org/news/friday-fun-fact-turkey-health-nutrition-facts/, Friday Fun Fact Turkey: Health & Nutrition Facts, Retrieved September 15, 2013, North Jersey Federal Credit Union, 2013. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002441.htm, Diet Liver Disease, Retrieved September 15, 2013, US National Library of Medicine, 2013. http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/the-truth-about-tryptophan, The Truth About Tryptophan, Lisa Zamosky, Retrieved September 15, 2013, WebMD, LLC, 2013. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=125, Turkey, Pasture Raised, Retrieved September 15, 2013, The George Mateljan Foundation, 2013. . 5 Starters, 3 Entrees, 4 Sides, 3 Beverages, 3 Desserts. What a Nutritionist Thinks. If you lose as little as three percent you can decrease the degree of fat deposition in the liver, a 5 percent to 7 percent loss can reduce inflammation, and a 10 percent drop can actually start to reverse scarring." Symptoms Lean meats, such as chicken, fish, and tofu, are preferable to high-fat options. 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. While bacon can be an enjoyable part of a balanced diet, it is important to consider the potential effects it can have on the liver. 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. What Does It Mean to Have an Opioid Overdose? In fact, you can find sodium nitrite in nearly every packaged meat product imaginable. The preservatives present in bacon arent the only factors that have consequences for liver health. This Should Perk You Up: The Surprising Health Benefits of Coffee, 6 Sore Throat Remedies That Actually Work. Gluten-free bacon is an example of a bacon that is free of gluten. A fatty liver diet is a dietary plan specifically designed to help improve liver function and reduce fat accumulation in the liver. However, its still a relatively high-calorie food, with 30 calories per slice more than half of which comes from fat. However, the amount of L-tryptophan in a turkey meal is not nearly sufficient to create enough serotonin to manufacture an adequate quantity of. It also pretty much takes care of itself. Fatty liver disease depletes the liver, preventing it from being able to remove toxins from the blood and produce bile for the digestive system. This may be because nitrites are also converted to nitric oxide, a compound that may lower blood pressure (8). But there are some foods and drinks that can give your hard-working liver a boost and help prevent or fight against certain liver diseases. Simply cut a sweet potato into wedges and coat lightly in avocado oil, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder. Does Bacon and Other Processed Meat Cause Cancer? 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. Eating processed meat is linked to increased risk of several diseases, including cancer. But this substitute is also high in fat and sodium and offers few other benefits. L-tryptophan is converted by the body to serotonin, a mood elevating chemical. All rights reserved, WEST AUSTIN 509 HEARN STREET AUSTIN, TX 78703 512.236.0642. Diet and exercise are the most effective ways of treating fatty liver disease. However, some people have raised concerns over potentially harmful compounds. The preservatives added to bacon - like salt and artificial nitrates and nitrites - are detrimental for your health. Symptomatic participants reported fatigue, joint pain, and headaches, while those who were asymptomatic reported only minor symptoms. What to Do If You Have Hepatic Encephalopathy, Signs You May Have an Amino AcidDeficiency, How to Live to 100: What You Can Do to Increase Longevity. Protein: 3 grams . Some canned food contains high amounts of sodium and added sugars, which contribute to weight gain, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease. People often assume turkey bacon is a healthier choice because it isn't red meat. While there are some emerging studies being done, more research is still necessary to fully understand the possible benefits of tea for liver health. Instead, fatigue after the Thanksgiving meal is usually due to overeating and/or consuming large quantities of carbohydrates and sugar the likes of which undoubtedly leads to an energy crash. Turkey bacon is available at most grocery stores as an alternative to classic pork bacon. It is possible to lose weight through a Mediterranean diet, DASH diet, and low carbohydrate diet. Drinking lots of soda over time causes the pancreas to work very hard to constantly produce and release insulin, which can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Calories: Turkey bacon contains fewer calories than pork bacon, but the difference per 2-ounce serving is small - 218 vs. 268 calories. Use seasonings and spices in abundance, but just be careful with salt. If you prefer a more savory breakfast, you can make avocado toast on English muffins. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. A frittata, similar to a crustless quiche, is a quick and easy way to start your day off right. If you have an infection or an injury to your liver, its possible that if you live a healthy lifestyle and eat the right foods, your liver may be able to heal itself.. And Whats The Best Treatment? 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. Similarly, if you smoke, you should quit in order to reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Cleveland Clinic 1995-2023. You can prepare it in the same ways as regular bacon. Drinking too many soft drinks also contributes to obesity and high blood pressure. Other processed meats to avoid include canned meats, red meat, salami, pepperoni, sliced deli meats, sausage, and hot dogs. We Asked a Nutritionist. Turkey bacon isn't all that different from conventional bacon when it comes to nutritional content. Other foods similar to white bread that should be avoided are white rice, white pasta, cookies, crackers, chips, and baked goods. Eggs: Look for omega-3 or pastured whole eggs (from cage-free, free-roaming hens). Excess salt, in addition to causing high blood, may also play a direct role in liver damage. 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. Muesli is a quick and easy way to get the protein you need in your morning meal. Foods rich in antioxidants help protect liver cells from damage by free radicals. Suzanne Fisher, RD, is the founding owner of Fisher Nutrition Systems. 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. (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. When it comes to losing weight, it is best to consult with a doctor or nutritionist. This is the same fatty acid that olive oil is praised for and generally considered "heart-healthy" ( 1. If you just have fat but no damage to your liver, the disease is called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Because of the selenium found in egg whites, they are particularly beneficial for the liver, as they aid in the reduction of oxidative stress and liver health. Researchers aren't completely sure why processed meats and red meats increase cancer risk, but there are some theories, according to the Harvard School of Public Health: Most turkey bacon is made with added nitrates, smoked and cooked at a high temperature, and contains some heme ironalthough in smaller amounts than pork. Turkey bacon is lower in protein and often higher in sugar than pork bacon. Poultry and fish are considered the best animal proteins you can load your diet with, Laster said. Results showed that mice treated with MSG increased liver inflammation and fat accumulation. Fatty liver is also known as hepatic steatosis. Policy. In response, the pancreas releases insulin, a signaling hormone that allows cells to collect glucose from the bloodstream. A Healthy And Flavorful Alternative To Regular Table Salt: Enjoy Bacon Salt! 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. Even though someone suffering from fatty liver disease may have different eating habits, their goals for living a healthy life are the same. You canmaintain a healthy liver by giving it the necessary nutrients it needs. Metabolic health and liver function are harmed when foods contain a lot of saturated fat, added sugars, and refined grains. If you want to avoid worsening cirrhosis, its best to eat low-fat dairy products. 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. The diet should be low in calories and fat, high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Instead, stick to foods good for liver regeneration, like veggies, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and high-quality proteins full of essential amino acids. Bacon is a particularly fatty cut of meat. Cleveland Clinic 1995-2023. Just like the chronic consumption of soda, eating too much white bread over time contributes to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, weight gain, and fatty liver disease. Cynthia is board certified as a specialist in sports dietetics and has consulted for five professional sports teams, including five seasons with the New York Yankees. If you have fatty liver, consuming chicken may help you maintain a healthy weight. Some people dont eat pork, including those with pork allergies or intolerances and those who avoid it for religious or health reasons. Its savory, salty flavor adds great flavor to a variety of dishes. Though not a food per se, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a preservative that is found in a variety of foods. A number of dietary principles should be considered when making food decisions, according to the U.S. Beef liver is a type of organ meat, also known as 'offal' or 'variety cut.' Compared to regular cuts of meat, liver has a low fat content, and it tends to be high in protein. Its also important to choose brands that produce cans that are free of BPA. In mice that consumed a high-fat diet, coffee reduced inflammation and liver damage. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Because high uric acid levels can lead to kidney stones or aggravate gout in susceptible individuals, these people should limit their consumption of turkey and other purine-rich foods. The preservatives added to bacon like salt and artificial nitrates and nitrites are detrimental for your health. Green tea leaves are filled with antioxidant agents like EGCG that scavenge damaging free radicals in the liver and promote healthyliver function while preventing disease progression. To maintain a healthy liver and reverse fat build-up, there are certain foods you should avoid. Weight loss, particularly in the abdominal or adipose tissue, can help reduce fat in the liver. If you are looking for protein without the detrimental preservatives, sodium, and saturated fat, choose grass-fed lean meats and fatty fish. And the similarities dont stop there.. Fresh fruits and veggies have the added benefits of fighting against risk factors associated with fatty liver disease, like insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. 4) Beef, liver. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. It's true that turkey-based bacon contains less calories (30 calories vs. 43) and saturated fat (0.6 grams vs. 1.1 grams) than conventional bacon, so if you're comparing the two, bacon made from turkey is the healthier option. There are many benefits to an honest bowl ofoatmeal. While it doesnt have the exact same taste and texture as pork bacon, turkey bacon still has a smoky, salty, meaty flavor that many enjoy. It handles everything from removing toxins from your blood to promoting digestion and storing vitamins for your body to use later, and more. Furthermore, people with kidney or liver issues should avoid the yellow yolk because it contains cholesterol. Adding freshly brewed green tea to your daily routine will also promote liver health. The United States is home to one of the most common causes of acute and chronic liver disease: excessive alcohol consumption. Too much sodium worsens high blood pressure and contributes to metabolic dysfunction. According to a new study, bacon lovers, consuming a lot of processed and red meats may increase your risk for a serious liver condition as well as insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to Type 2 diabetes. 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 real health difference between the two is that pork is red meat and turkey is not. The USDA defines a lean cut of beef as a 3.5-ounce serving (about 100 grams) that contains less than:. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are all high in micronutrients that support liver health and metabolism. Some calorie- and fat-conscious eaters choose turkey bacon as a healthy alternative to the pork variety that traditionally graces breakfast tables. If you have a fatty liver, chicken can be a good addition to your diet because it is a good source of lean protein. Its one of the only organs that can regenerate itself, says liver specialistChristina Lindenmeyer, MD. Whole grain foods, such as oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa, are also beneficial. Saturated fat impairs insulin function and contributes to insulin resistance and diabetes.
