GrillGrate LLC Disputes Claim that Grilling Causes Cancer, Citing Research, Evidence and Practical Advice
Cartersville, GA (PRWEB) April 03, 2014 -- Grilling season is right around the corner and so too will be the alarming stories about grilling causing cancer. GrillGrate LLC and Dr. Sara Jean Barrett ND are releasing a statement today to dispute the claim that grilling causes cancer, along with research and healthy grilling tips.
"It's a rite of spring to be warned about the dangers of grilling," states Brad Barrett, President of GrillGrate LLC. "It's frustrating to hear the litany of concerns as pundits encourage less grilling, covering food in foil, pre- cooking in microwaves; and most of it is just plain nonsense."
"Scientific and practical evidence indicate grilling is an exceptionally healthy way to cook," Barrett said. The keys to healthy grilling are choosing simple and whole foods, creating a balanced diet, and not burning grilled meat. “The grill is not to blame,” states Barrett.
The heating, browning and charring of meat that causes the formation of carcinogens is not limited to grilling. All cooking methods and heat sources cause the formation of HCA's (heterocyclic amines). PAH's (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) are smoke related. The key is offsetting and counteracting the carcinogen formation through food preparation i.e. spices and marinades as well as diet and smart food choices.
“In collaboration with our daughter, Dr. Sara Jean Barrett ND, we’re offering simple tips to grill for your best health and to keep enjoying grilled food,” Barrett said.
Dr. Barrett has reviewed and compiled studies and research that suggest how to prevent or neutralize the formation of HCA's and PAH's.
“The healthy answer is a grill full of vegetables along with a variety of proteins such as fish and chicken. My father is a perfect example -- he never ate a beet until he was 50. He's gone from a pre-diabetic with high cholesterol to normal levels of blood sugar and cholesterol all through better diet and healthy grilling (and a healthy dose of Yoga),” Dr. Barrett said.
To inspire others to take control of their health, Dr. Barrett has compiled a list of tips for healthier grilling:
1. Meat is not the enemy- just don't burn it: The research is not in dispute here. Charred, burned meat does contain known carcinogens (HCA's and PAH's) but there are plenty of ways to off-set them. Grill food to goal temps, avoid too much open flame or grilling too well done. Grilling faster can also reduce the amount of char.
2. Eat more vegetables: A balanced diet consists of vegetables, fruits, and meat. Grilled vegetables contain counter-balancing antioxidants that research shows neutralize carcinogen formation and works to counter-act it. Research points to this neutralizing effect with the use of herbs and spices too.
3. Grill more kinds of vegetables: No butter or calorie-rich sauces required. Sweet potatoes, beets, carrots and squash caramelize at grill temps letting the natural sugars deliver the best and tastiest flavor. Grill peppers, onions, zucchini, with just a touch of olive oil and pepper. Enjoy all that antioxidant power working to improve your health while offsetting the effects of cooking red meat.
4. Grill more fish and chicken: Grilled chicken does not have to be slathered in barbecue sauce. A simple rub of herbs and spices is healthier and contains more antioxidants. Salmon is ideal to spice up and grill hot and fast like a steak. Is there a tastier way to eat fish than grilled?
5. Spice up grilled meats: The antioxidant power of herbs, particularly rosemary, paprika, garlic, sage and black pepper, retard the formation of HCA's. (link to referenced studies) For example, adding dried cherries to hamburger shows significant reductions in HCA formation.
6. Marinade meat before grilling: Research again points to significant reductions of HCA's. Be careful not to use flammable marinades as they may do more harm than good.
7. Grill on a clean hot grill and ban flare-ups. Eliminating flare-ups is the best way to control char and gain control of the grill.
"New grill surfaces such as GrillGrates play a role in all of this by preventing flare-ups and draining fats off without burning the food. Improved grill surfaces also open the door to healthier grilling possibilities with vegetables, fish and leaner meats.” Barrett said.
Link to Dropbox healthy grilling photos and referenced studies.
About GrillGrate LLC
GrillGrate LLC is based in Catersville, Georgia. GrillGrates are manufactured in various lengths and shapes for all popular grills. GrillGrates improve the cooking performance of any grill, including gas grills, charcoal grills, kamado and pellet grills. GrillGrates are proudly made in the USA. The GrateTool is made in China. For more information, please visit http://www.grillgrate.com.
About Alternative Solutions for Health, Dr. Sara Jean Barrett
Dr. Barrett is a licensed naturopathic doctor who practices general family medicine in Minneapolis MN. In addition to running her own practice, Alternative Solutions, she teaches classes on naturopathic therapies, publishes articles and speaks at public events. http://www.alternativesolutionsmn.com
Brad Barrett, GrillGrate, LLC, http://www.grillgrate.com, +1 678-361-4491, [email protected]
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