On Tuesday, we shared grilling recipes of the blog for our sister supplement, Glucocil. Grilling is a great way to get outside and eat healthy meals. We love how little fat there is in most grilling recipes. Right now, after weeks of staying inside, we want to get outside. Restrictions are lifting around the country, and being outside is a great comfort to many of us who still have to keep our distance.  

But, many people question whether grilling is a healthy way of cooking. Char, which can form on food that is cooked at a high heat or is burned, can be carcinogenic. However, the danger of the carcinogen has only been seen in animals. It hasn’t been directly linked to cancer in human beings. According to surveys, people who eat large amounts of barbecued or well-done meat do have a higher risk for bladder, colon and pancreatic cancers.

There are ways to minimize your risk of being exposed to carcinogens. For instance, marinating your food in something acidic. Marinating can lower the formation of carcinogens by as much as 99 percent. Additionally, using herbs that are antioxidants like oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme can reduce the formation of carcinogens.

Lower protein and fat foods like vegetables or lean meat also form fewer carcinogens. Foods with faster cooking times and more moderate temperatures — like thinner cuts of meat — are healthier. Avoiding contact with open flames causes less charring and more even cooking. And, don’t use lighter fluid on your grill as it can increase your exposure to chemicals being cooked into your food.

We love grill baskets and grilling woks as they let us get the flavor and experience of grilling while also draining fat from your food. You get less fat and less char but still enjoy great, fresh flavors. Another cooking option is to partially cook your food in the microwave, in the oven or by boiling and then bring it to the grill to get the flavor you’re looking for without it being at high temperature for a long time.

Unfortunately, delicious sausages are not going to be a healthy option, regardless of how they are cooked. However, there are many things you haven’t thought to put on the grill that are delicious, such as apples, pears and pineapples. It brings out their natural sweetness, so you don’t have to add anything for a delicious dessert.

With these steps, you can enjoy grilling and being outside without worrying about the dangers of grilling. Barbecue season starts after Memorial Day. It’s strange to think that we missed most of the spring in lockdown, so now that many restrictions have been lifted, take back the great outdoors — or at least your yard!