Dr. James Kinross, a leading bowel cancer surgeon, has issued a stark warning to gym lovers hooked on protein powders. He says high-protein diets, especially powders, can harm your gut and raise bowel cancer risk.

“These protein powders are bad news and really bad for your gut,” Dr. Kinross told LADbible. Protein breakdown releases toxins that fuel inflammation, which can trigger cancer. He urges people to choose plant-based proteins and skip processed supplements altogether.

Red meat is another risk. Dr. Kinross advises having it only once a week as a treat and replacing it with white fish or chicken when possible. “You don’t need to go vegan,” he says, “but avoid meat with every meal.”

He explains bowel cancer has three causes: genes, environment, and gut microbes. Processed foods and pollutants worsen the risk. Early screening is key—Dr. Kinross stresses, “If you catch bowel cancer early, you can completely cure it.”

If you notice changes in your bowel habits or bleeding, see your doctor and ask for proper screening. A simple test could save your life.