Charcoal and health: the benefits of grilling

 

Smoky aroma and delicious flavour are the two main advantages of charcoal grilling. But did you know that grilling with traditional charcoal can also improve our health?
From reducing fat content to aiding digestion, charcoal grilling can work wonders for your health. Let’s take a look some of the amazing benefits of charcoal grilling so you can enjoy your grilled food without guilt.

Reduces fat content:

Charcoal grilling is an effective way to reduce the fat content of your food. When you grill meat, the fat drips off, leaving you with a leaner cut. Plus, because grilling with traditional charcoal is a dry heat method, you don’t need to add oil or fat to the grill like you would when frying or sautéing. This helps with a lower calorie intake.

Preserves nutrients:

Charcoal grilling is a quick and intense cooking method that helps preserve the nutrients in your food. When you grill your food, you expose it to high heat for a short period of time, which means it retains more vitamins and minerals than if it were cooked for a longer period of time. This is especially true for vegetables, which can lose a significant amount of nutrients if boiled or steamed for too long.

Lower sodium content:

Grilling your food may allow you to reduce sodium intake. Adding other flavours and seasonings such as herbs, spices, and citrus fruits, to grilled food, provides flavour without the need for extra sodium.

Reduced carcinogens:

Many people worry that grilling may be harmful due to the formation of carcinogens. However, recent studies have shown that the amount formed during charcoal grilling is minimal, especially when compared to other cooking methods, such as frying. As long as you grill your food properly and avoid heavily charring, charcoal grilling can be a safe and healthy way to cook.

Aids digestion:

Charcoal grilling can help break down proteins in food, making them easier to digest. When grilling, the high temperature helps caramelize the outside, which can improve the flavor and texture of your meal. Plus, because you’re not using added oils or sauces, you’re less likely to experience heartburn or indigestion.

Increases satiety:

Grilling food can actually help you feel full for longer. When you grill food, the high temperature helps caramelize the natural sugars it contains, making it more satisfying and flavorful. Without the need for extra oils or sauces, you’re less likely to see a sharp rise in blood sugar levels, delaying hunger and food cravings.
In conclusion, the health benefits of cooking with traditional SIDERIS charcoal are significant and cannot be ignored. From reducing fat intake to improving digestion, charcoal grilling is a healthy and delicious way to cook your food. So, the next time you fire up your grill, remember that you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal, but also doing your body good! We are always here to offer you the best charcoal experience.

Sources:

American Cancer Society. (2021). Common Questions About Diet and Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/healthy/eat-healthy-get-active/acs-guidelines-nutrition-physical-activity-cancer-prevention/common-questions.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Reducing Sodium in Your Diet. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/salt/reduce_sodium_tips.htm