A few people rang the alarm bells when I shared a recipe that called for some bacon. If you’re vegan or vegetarian I fully understand if this is not your thing :). Otherwise, hear me out. Contrary to what many of us hear or heard growing up, bacon is not bad for you. As with any other red meat, portion control is always your friend. Still, bacon is good source of protein and fat (and deliciousness!), especially when keeping your carbs under control.

Let’s be clear about a few things before I begin discussing bacon. First and foremost, I don’t support and will never promote any kind of meat or animal product that is not organic and grass-fed and, of course, humanely treated. Secondly, I’m talking about premium bacon – the kind that might be bit more expensive, but definitely worth the few extra dollars in terms of overall health (and taste!).

A common issue that is brought up when discussing cured meats including bacon is that the methods of preservation including the use of nitrites and nitrates are an incredible risk to our health. The truth is that such claims are a bit far-fetched. These methods of curing have been around for hundreds of years. Sure, there are cheaper ways to do so just as there are better and worse types of meats to purchase, i.e., grass-fed, organic, etc. As with anything else, quality counts.

Nitrates and nitrites exist in the most unlikely places. Some vegetables are incredibly high in nitrates. For example, check out this study that demonstrates that two servings of beets or celery has more nitrate than close to 500 hot dogs! The same study concluded that consuming nitrate and nitrite are not associated with a higher cancer risk either.

Often the things that we’re told are unhealthy are considered so because people eat them in such huge amounts. Overeating alongside an already poor diet and lack of exercise will obviously lead to disastrous results regarding health and wellbeing.

Moderation seems to have gone the way of the dinosaurs, in my opinion. Of course, anything including bacon is going to be bad for you if you decide to eat it like popcorn 24/7. However, as part of a balanced diet it’s a tasty treat that doesn’t need to be shunned as though it’s the equivalent of shooting up heroine or meth :).

I’m not trying to tell you guys what you must eat, but I hope I’ve explained why I do eat the things I do such as bacon. Again, it’s a good source of protein and a great source of healthy fat.

Any bacon-loving warriorz out there care to share your favorite ways to prepare and use bacon? Do you fry it or throw it in the oven? Any brands you swear by? Let me know!