There aren’t many people who don’t lovebacon.

However, research in recent years has shown that processed meat is generally accompanied by some harmful side effects.

So, does that mean bacon is bad for you?

Bacon

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Or is it OK to have it in moderation?

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You may consume potentially harmful preservatives.

Bacon is considered a processed meat, which means it often contains additives and preservatives.

Fried crunchy Streaky Bacon pieces in a cast iron skillet

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Unfortunately, many of these ingredients have been found to have negative health effects.

Bacon lovers will be happy to know that there are some brands out there making bacon without these preservatives.

You may increase your risk of heart disease.

close-up woman’s hands adding bacon to plate of eggs next to stove, concept of empty calorie foods that make you gain weight

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Your risk for cancer may increase.

Bacon is a jot down of processed meat, so your risk for cancer may increase.

These findings, however, are not isolated, as it also depends on other lifestyle factors.

pancakes bacon breakfast

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So the big takeaways here?

It’s no secret that bacon is full of fat.

The juicy, fattiness of a nice strip of bacon is what makes it so good!

strips of cooked bacon lying on brown parchment paper

But what throw in of fat is bacon made of?

AsThe Nutrition Journalexplains, monounsaturated fats can actually help balance cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Saturated fats sometimes tend to have a negative reputation, but they aren’t all that bad.

raw bacon being taken out of the refrigerator

You’ll find these fats mostly in animal products, and they should definitely be consumed in moderate quantities.

Polyunsaturated fats, which are found in manyfish products, are also good for your heart and cholesterol levels.

You’ll consume some vitamins.

bacon frying pan

Most people don’t realize this, but bacon actually contains a ton of vitamins as well.

This is one of the many reasons people obsess over bone broth!

A previous version of this story was published on June 5, 2020.

Bacon in a small skillet ready to eat for breakfast

It has been updated to include additional copy and proofreading revisions, additional research, and updated contextual links.

bacon cooking in a skillet