Tips for Heart Healthy Grilling

Summer is barbecue season! There’s nothing like getting the gang together for a good old-fashioned cookout. However, all of that meat can be fatty and high in cholesterol, which isn’t good news for your heart. Luckily, there are other options that can allow you to grill all summer long with your ticker in mind! Here are some fun and easy ideas to try this summer:

1. Turkey: This healthy and delicious alternative to heavy beef and pork options comes in many forms—burgers and hot dogs included. Switch out your barbecue staples for turkey versions for a lower-fat option that is just as delicious.
2. Chicken: Grilled chicken is another flavorful and heart-healthy option. Instead of burgers or steaks, try serving up some delicious grilled chicken. Use a flavor rub prior to grilling to really bring out chicken’s great taste! You can also use grilled chicken in salads or kebabs.
3. Veggies: Getting your recommended daily allowance of veggies is tastier on the grill! Grilled vegetables are great on their own or as part of an entrée. Bell peppers and zucchini are amazing on a kebab. Try grilled Portobello mushrooms as a burger alternative (even better topped with pesto!). Or, try grilled asparagus, tomatoes, or corn for a fun and healthy side dish. For best results, marinate them in your favorite marinade (you can try lemon juice mixed with your favorite spices and mix with wine or vinegar), or just brush with oil. Keep a close watch on veggies to avoid burning them, and take them off the grill after they start to wilt and char.
4. Fruits: Even your sweet tooth can be satisfied by some heart-healthy grilling! Try larger and firmer fruits that contain a lot of water, they retain their flavor and texture the best (unlike berries and grapes, which are better served fresh or baked). Pineapple, bananas, apples, plums, and watermelon are especially good. Pick fruits that are not quite ripe, then slice into sizable slices or chunks and soak in cold water (add a spritz of lemon to keep the fruit’s color) for 30 minutes. Then, lightly brush the fruits with cooking oil to prevent sticking, and cook over medium heat on a clean grill (to avoid cross-contamination) until nice grill marks are visible. You can also marinate fruits with spices or brown sugar to enhance the flavor, and top with whipped cream or frozen yogurt for an extra special dessert.

Nothing tastes as good as a hot-off-the-grill meal during the summer months. Try these heart-healthy alternatives all season long!
How to Use this Information
If you have any questions about your cardiovascular health, talk to the experts at South Denver Cardiology. Call 303-744-1065, or visit our website and schedule an appointment!

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South Denver Cardiology

Randy Cupps Graduated from Western Colorado University in Gunnison, Colorado, in 1983 with a degree in Physical Education with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology. Randy started his medical career in 1980 as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) working on an ambulance and in an emergency room. He then joined South Denver Cardiology in 1986 when it was South Denver Cardiac Rehabilitation as an Exercise Physiologist conducting a wide variety of Graded Exercise Testing on a diverse patient population. Randy continues to keep his EMT current, and he is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. In 2012 Randy acquired the role of business development, marketing, and physician relations manager at SDCA.

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