Quality Ham and Bacon

There are 8 essential amino acids that the body has to get from the diet. A food that provides all 8 of these essential amino acids is called a High Biological Value (HBV) protein. Protein is needed for normal growth and development of bones in children and contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and muscles in adults and children.

Both ham and bacon are high in Vitamin B1 which is needed throughout the body to help to turn food into energy and to keep the nervous system healthy.

Ham and bacon are both high in Vitamin B3. The body uses niacin to turn food into energy and it also has a key role in maintaining a healthy nervous system, digestive system, and skin health.

Ham and bacon are both high in vitamin B6. A survey in Ireland found that significant numbers of Irish teenagers don’t get enough of this vitamin which has many roles in maintaining health from immunity, to healthy blood, brain function and metabolism.

Ham is high in vitamin B12. This vitamin has an essential role in making and maintaining healthy nerve cells, red blood cells, and the genetic material inside cells called DNA.

Ham and bacon have less iron in them than red meats. However the iron present is in the form of haem iron which is the most easily absorbed form of dietary iron. Dietary iron is an essential in healthy blood, needed to carry oxygen around the body. The diets of significant numbers of women and children in Ireland have been shown to be inadequate in this essential mineral.

Ham and bacon are a source of zinc. Zinc has many roles in the human body, but is especially important in maintaining a healthy immune system. It is also involved in wound healing, fertility, brain function and energy metabolism. Significant numbers of adults in Ireland do not get enough zinc from their diets.

To maintain the nutritional benefits of ham and bacon, trim off visible fat and use cooking methods such as boiling or grilling. Include plenty of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains in your diet.