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(Bellingham, WA) - This Independence Day, backyards across the nation will light up with family fireworks displays – and blazing grills. Everyone knows it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe fireworks display, but many people don’t realize that the food on the grill can also pose a serious threat to family members’ health.

According to Registered Dietitian Gloria Tsang, research shows that substances in grilled meats can increase the risk of certain cancers, including colorectal and breast cancer – especially if the meat is cooked to well done. “One kind of cancer-causing chemical forms because of the high heat used in grilling,” says Tsang, founder of online nutrition community HealthCastle.com. “The other kind is caused by those smoke and flame flares we’ve all seen when fat and juices drip down onto the heat source below.”

Here are some simple ways to minimize your family’s exposure to cancer-causing chemicals at your Independence Day Grill Party:

• Keep it short and sweet: The longer meat’s on the grill, the more time carcinogens have to develop. Cut grill time short by cooking to medium instead of well done, or start the cooking in the microwave.
• Go lean: To reduce flare ups, choose lean cuts of meat, and trim any visible fat before tossing onto the grill.
• Try the veggie version: Veggie burgers and dogs don't produce the same level of carcinogens as grilled meats. Throw a few on the grill – you might find you like them!
• Soak in the Flavor: A study has shown that marinades – especially those with herbs – reduce the build-up of carcinogens caused by the heat of the grill.
• Bar the char: Carcinogens are concentrated in charred meat, so trim charred sections or avoid them by shortening grill time.
• Savor the sides: Fill up your plate with tasty side dishes like corn, salads, and fruit. Keep your meat serving to ¼ of your plate to minimize exposure to carcinogens and control calories at the same time.

Grilling is a favorite national summer pass-time – especially on Independence Day. These simple tips can help you to create healthy grilled meals that your family can enjoy without an added cancer risk. More healthy eating tips from registered dietitians are available at http://www.HealthCastle.com.

About HealthCastle.com: HealthCastle.com is the most comprehensive nutrition community run by Registered Dietitians on the web. The dietitians at HealthCastle.com have been sharing their passion for nutrition and health since 1997. For fun and practical healthy eating tips, exclusive nutrition guides, and nutrition podcasts, visit www.HealthCastle.com.

For more information or to interview Gloria Tsang, please contact Tracey Johnston at .