Things You Didn't Know About Bacon

National Bacon Day

This unofficial holiday occurs the Saturday before Labor Day in the United States. Bacon-lovers across the country celebrate by eating and drinking bacon and bacon-inspired fare and participating in bacon-inspired activities.

Bacon Might Cure Hangovers

This might be the best news ever; British researchers from Newcastle University say that bacon may actually help alleviate hangovers because it contains amino acids that help replace neurotransmitters that become depleted during heavy drinking.

You Can Buy Bacon Cologne

Cured, smoked pork has inspired a number of crazy products including a bacon-scented cologne. Created in 1920 by a Parisian butcher, this spray combines 11 essential oils with the essence of, you guessed it, bacon.

And Bacon Toothpaste

Looking to shake up your dental hygiene routine? Bacon-flavored toothpaste and dental floss can help you can achieve the perfectly smoky, salt-cured smile you're after.

Oven-Baked Bacon is Best

Though it may sound strange, the best way to cook bacon is on a foil-lined sheet pan in the oven. Not only will the bacon come out crispier and more evenly cooked, but cleanup is easier, too; no grease spatters on your stovetop and no frying pan to wash. Just crumple up the foil and throw it away.

Bacon Addiction is Probably Real

Research shows that high-calorie and high-fat foods (like bacon) overload the brain's pleasure center which can lead to addictive eating patterns.

Bacon May Help Brain Development

Choline (a naturally occurring chemical in foods that helps fetuses develop the regions of the brain linked to memory) is found in bacon. Though pregnant women have many healthier options for getting their recommended dose of choline, occasionally indulging one's bacon cravings during pregnancy may not be all bad.