Newswise — HOUSTON — Adults can avoid cancer-causing agents when they barbecue by using the healthy grilling tips in the new infographic, “How to fill a healthy barbecue plate,” created by experts at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

“Summer is a popular season for outdoor grilling,” said Mary Ellen Herndon, an MD Anderson wellness dietitian. “But before you fire up the grill, take the right precautions to make sure you serve healthy barbecue dishes that won’t expose your family to increased cancer risks.”

Research shows that common meats served at barbecues, like hot dogs and hamburgers, can increase colorectal cancer risks. Even some ‘safer’ meats can expose people to cancer-causing agents if they’re cooked improperly.

Herndon suggests using the tips in the infographic to give grilling a healthy makeover.

Barbecue Infographic

Grab the embed code to place this infographic on your website. Or, grab the infographic link.

To learn more about red meat and colorectal cancer risks, watch MD Anderson’s “limit red meat” video and grab the YouTube embed code under the “share” tab.

Take Healthy BitesThis infographic is part of MD Anderson’s Healthy Bites 2013 challenge, which encourages adults to make healthier food choices to lower cancer risks. Participants take on a different nutrition challenge every month.

“Maintaining a healthy diet can be difficult,” Herndon said. “That’s why we created the Healthy Bites program, which encourages small dietary changes and each one supports a cancer prevention message.”

People who join Healthy Bites will have access to additional MD Anderson nutrition materials, food journals, healthy recipes and expert tips.

For more information, including details on how to join the challenge, visit www.mdanderson.org/healthybites.

About MD AndersonThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston ranks as one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. MD Anderson is one of only 41 comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute. For nine of the past 11 years, including 2012, MD Anderson has ranked No. 1 in cancer care in “Best Hospitals,” a survey published annually in U.S. News & World Report.