Low and Slow for Labor Day.

Ruby Laemmel
Aug 27
3 min read

Smart Grilling for Metabolic Health

It's almost Labor Day weekend, and you know what that means: a long weekend filled with rejuvenating family time, nourishing food, and hopefully sunny weather! This weekend is intended to be relaxing and celebratory for all the hard work you do, so let's treat it that way. BBQs and grilling are among the most popular traditions for the long weekend, bringing loved ones together and allowing for connection and positive energy.

However, it’s worth noting that the way we grill can impact our health. When meat is cooked at very high temperatures, such as over an open flame or when it becomes charred, natural chemicals in the meat can form substances called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These compounds have been studied for their potential to damage DNA and are considered possible carcinogens by the National Cancer Institute. So what can you do to avoid these chemicals and support your health?

Go Low & Slow

As mentioned above, high heat and charring can produce compounds such as HCAs and PAHs, which can be harmful to your DNA. To avoid this from happening, try slow cooking at lower temperatures on indirect heat. Not only does this technique lower risk, but it can also make your meat more tender and flavorful! (National Cancer Institute)

Scrape & Clean the Grill

A quick scrape before each use of your grill goes a long way; this clears the space from built-up char and residue. Use a sturdy grill brush or scraper before cooking to keep your surface clean and safe. It may be a simple tip, but it can have a significant and lasting impact!

Marinade Wisely

Often, marinades are sweet and contain a high amount of sugar, which can caramelize and burn more quickly, resulting in higher levels of HCAs. Focus on antioxidant-rich marinades with avocado oil, citrus, garlic, or turmeric. Studies show that rosemary is a powerful herb that can reduce HCAs by 90% due to its high antioxidant content. Rosemary is not only a protective powerhouse but absolutely delicious! (USDA Agricultural Research Service)

Now! Try these simple grill tips on a new recipe that your family and friends will all enjoy!

Zucchini Prosciutto Roll Ups!

Ingredients:

Zucchini (sliced, long ways)

Proscuitto

Arugula

Parmesan

Balsamic Reduction (sugar-free)

Avocado Oil

Olive Oil

Lemon Juice

Apple Cider Vinegar

Rosemary

Salt

Pepper

**All Organic Ingredients Please!

Directions:

Lightly coat your Zucchini slices with lemon juice, avocado oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary before grilling on low-indirect heat until tender. Remember to scrape your grill before using it!

While this is cooking, lightly dress your arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.

When your zucchini is done, lay it out flat and layer it with prosciutto and arugula before rolling it into a mini roll-up! Place on a plate, drizzle with balsamic, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Delicious!

Why This Recipe is Remission Nutrition Approved:

This appetizer is packed with nutrients that support a balanced, health-forward lifestyle.

Zucchini is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. By grilling it lightly on low indirect heat, these nutrients are preserved!
Arugula is a cruciferous green high in vitamin K, folate, and glucosinolates, which promote natural detoxification.
Prosciutto and Parmesan are rich in calcium and protein, making them beneficial for any diet.
Avocado Oil and Olive Oil provide monounsaturated fats that support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (like vitamin K in arugula) and are anti-inflammatory.
Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar help promote digestion and balance blood sugar.
Rosemary adds a flavorful punch but is also rich in carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which act as antioxidants and reduce the formation of harmful grilling byproducts.

Embracing Community

Practicing these grilling tips will help you support your metabolic health while still enjoying time with those around you and savoring delicious grilled food. This weekend is about more than hosting a BBQ, grilling, and the food; it is about community. Any time we can get together with those we love and cherish is a beautiful moment of celebration.

As you spend the extended weekend, be present with others and with yourself. Practice deep breathing, gratitude, and love.

Important Update: The Nest Registration is Open!

The Nest is Remission Nutrition's community hub, where you can find support from those around you. It is a safe space filled with unconditional love, non-judgment, supportive listening, learning, sharing, and hope. Whether you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, is currently in remission, or is looking to learn more to support your metabolic health, this membership is for you!

For more information, visit The Nest on our website. Registration is for the 3-month session from October to December. Registration closes October 1st! Please email info@remissionnutrition with any questions.

Written by Ruby Laemmel, Marketing and Client Relations Manager, Certified in Mindful Eating.