As you prepare for this holiday weekend, you've probably thought about how you're going to celebrate, but have you thought about the health dangers -- and dreaded fat content?

At AOL Health, we did some digging, and boy did we come up with dirt (or toxins -- like the kind you don't want to be brewing in your food and on your grill). Who knew that a misstep in cooking could lead over time to long-term health problems, like diabetes and heart disease? Fortunately some health and nutrition experts clued us in to which BBQ staples can stay and which ones you oughtta kick to the curb. Read our leaner preparation tips and cookout safety advice to put your mind, body and belly at ease.