World Cancer Day is celebrated annually on February 4 to raise awareness among people about cancer and to encourage its prevention and early detection to increase the chances of successful treatment. The Times of India reported a set of tips that help in cancer prevention caused by grilling meat, as follows:
1. **Cutting Meat into Smaller Pieces**
According to experts, meat should be cut into smaller pieces so that it cooks quickly and the exposure time to high cooking temperatures is shorter. This helps reduce the risk of meat being exposed to cancer-causing compounds.
2. **Turning Meat Regularly**
While grilling, make sure to turn the meat regularly, so that no side of the meat has time to absorb or lose too much heat.
3. **Using the Right Temperature**
According to nutritionists, instead of using a charcoal grill, one can use a gas grill to better control the temperature. The correct way to use a gas grill is to light the burner and place the meat in the center for even cooking.
4. **Pre-cooking Meat**
It is also recommended to partially cook the meat in the oven, on the stove, or in the microwave. This procedure helps reduce the time the meat is exposed to the heat of the grill.
5. **Proper Marinating**
Another key to keeping meat safe from cancer-causing compounds is to marinate it well. According to experts, one should marinate the meat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before grilling, to reduce the formation of carcinogenic substances. It has also been proven that using vinegar or lemon juice in the marinade is very effective in protecting meat from carcinogens.
6. **Choosing Lean Meats**
Choosing lean meats such as chicken, seafood, and skinless turkey helps reduce flames and smoke containing harmful hydrocarbons.
