Which of the following methods is best for maintaining the health benefits of food?

The method that best preserves the health benefits of food is grilling or steaming without excessive added fats. Both grilling and steaming are cooking techniques that help maintain the nutritional content of food.

Grilling allows excess fats to drip away from the food, resulting in a dish that is lower in unhealthy fats while still developing flavor through the Maillard reaction, which occurs when food is cooked at higher temperatures. Steaming, on the other hand, uses water vapor to cook food, retaining vitamins and minerals that might otherwise leach out into cooking water, as is often the case with boiling.

Both grilling and steaming prioritize the natural flavors and textures of the food without the need for added oils or fats, which can contribute extra calories and diminish some of the health benefits. This approach is ideal for promoting a balanced diet rich in nutrients while minimizing the pitfalls associated with excessive fat and calorie intake.

In contrast to this method, high heat and heavy oils can lead to the formation of unhealthy compounds and increase the overall calorie content of the meal; using a microwave with added fats can also lead to nutrient loss while adding unnecessary calories. Lastly, boiling with lots of salt and sugar not only compromises the health benefits by introducing excessive sodium and sugar but can also result in nutrient loss