Popular supplement raises bowel cancer risk, expert warns
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If you’ve ever wandered down the health food aisle or watched a fitness ad on TV, you’ve probably noticed the explosion of protein powders and shakes promising everything from muscle growth to boundless energy.
But before you scoop another serving into your morning smoothie, it might be time to pause and consider what the experts are now warning: these popular supplements could be doing more harm than good—especially when it comes to your gut health and risk of bowel cancer.
Bowel cancer once considered a disease that mostly affected older adults, is now increasingly being diagnosed in people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
In fact, global research shows an alarming 80 per cent increase in young-onset cases over the past three decades.
While scientists are still piecing together the puzzle, a growing body of evidence suggests that our modern diets—characterised by an abundance of ultra-processed foods and supplements—are a major contributor.
Dr James Kinross, a leading colorectal surgeon at Imperial College London, has sounded the alarm about the potential dangers of protein powders.
According to Dr Kinross, these supplements can wreak havoc on your gut by disrupting the delicate balance of 'friendly' bacteria that keep your digestive system healthy.
‘These protein powders are bad news and really bad for your gut,’ he warns. When your body breaks down and metabolises large amounts of protein—especially from powders—one of the byproducts is toxins that can drive inflammation and increase your risk of bowel cancer.
But it’s not just the protein itself. Many protein shakes are loaded with additives, emulsifiers, and artificial sweeteners, all of which can further upset your gut microbiome.
This inflammation, over time, can damage the DNA in your cells, making it more likely for them to become cancerous.
It’s not just protein powders under scrutiny. Ultra-processed foods—think cakes, crisps, ready meals, and even some 'health' bars—are also linked to a higher risk of bowel cancer.
These foods often contain chemicals like emulsifiers (such as carrageenan), which studies have shown can trigger inflammation, reduce the diversity of gut bacteria, and even cause intestinal ulcers.
A 2024 review in the journal *Nutrients* found that carrageenan, commonly found in pre-made protein shakes, is broken down in the stomach into a toxic substance that can damage the gut lining and increase cancer risk.
Dr Kinross also cautions against regular consumption of processed red meats like bacon and ham, which have long been associated with bowel cancer.
Chemicals in these meats—heme iron, nitrates, and amines—can interact with your digestive system to form cancer-causing compounds.
His advice is to treat red meat as an occasional indulgence, not a daily staple, and opt for high-quality cuts when you do.
The good news is you don’t have to go vegan to protect your gut. Dr Kinross recommends focusing on plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and pulses, which are gentler on your digestive system and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Swapping just one portion of red meat for white fish or chicken can also significantly reduce your risk.
When it comes to fibre, stick to natural sources—whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—rather than powdered supplements, which can be harsh on your gut.
It’s not just cancer risk that’s concerning. A recent study found that for every 10 per cent increase in calories from ultra-processed foods, the risk of dying early from any cause goes up by nearly 3 per cent.
In the US, these foods make up more than half of the average person’s daily calorie intake and are linked to an estimated 124,000 premature deaths each year.
Shockingly, a ready-to-drink protein shake can be just as unhealthy as a chocolate egg despite its 'health food' marketing. Both are ultra-processed and can contribute to long-term health problems.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them—see your GP as soon as possible.
Have you ever used protein powders or noticed changes in your gut health after trying new supplements? Do you have tips for getting more natural protein in your diet? We’d love to hear your experiences and advice—share your thoughts in the comments below.
Read more: Could your favourite snack be causing more deaths than fentanyl? Study reveals shocking truth
But before you scoop another serving into your morning smoothie, it might be time to pause and consider what the experts are now warning: these popular supplements could be doing more harm than good—especially when it comes to your gut health and risk of bowel cancer.
Bowel cancer once considered a disease that mostly affected older adults, is now increasingly being diagnosed in people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
In fact, global research shows an alarming 80 per cent increase in young-onset cases over the past three decades.
While scientists are still piecing together the puzzle, a growing body of evidence suggests that our modern diets—characterised by an abundance of ultra-processed foods and supplements—are a major contributor.
Protein powders and shakes linked to gut inflammation and bowel cancer risk by health experts. Credit: Gingagi / iStock
Dr James Kinross, a leading colorectal surgeon at Imperial College London, has sounded the alarm about the potential dangers of protein powders.
According to Dr Kinross, these supplements can wreak havoc on your gut by disrupting the delicate balance of 'friendly' bacteria that keep your digestive system healthy.
‘These protein powders are bad news and really bad for your gut,’ he warns. When your body breaks down and metabolises large amounts of protein—especially from powders—one of the byproducts is toxins that can drive inflammation and increase your risk of bowel cancer.
But it’s not just the protein itself. Many protein shakes are loaded with additives, emulsifiers, and artificial sweeteners, all of which can further upset your gut microbiome.
This inflammation, over time, can damage the DNA in your cells, making it more likely for them to become cancerous.
It’s not just protein powders under scrutiny. Ultra-processed foods—think cakes, crisps, ready meals, and even some 'health' bars—are also linked to a higher risk of bowel cancer.
These foods often contain chemicals like emulsifiers (such as carrageenan), which studies have shown can trigger inflammation, reduce the diversity of gut bacteria, and even cause intestinal ulcers.
A 2024 review in the journal *Nutrients* found that carrageenan, commonly found in pre-made protein shakes, is broken down in the stomach into a toxic substance that can damage the gut lining and increase cancer risk.
Dr Kinross also cautions against regular consumption of processed red meats like bacon and ham, which have long been associated with bowel cancer.
His advice is to treat red meat as an occasional indulgence, not a daily staple, and opt for high-quality cuts when you do.
The good news is you don’t have to go vegan to protect your gut. Dr Kinross recommends focusing on plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and pulses, which are gentler on your digestive system and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Swapping just one portion of red meat for white fish or chicken can also significantly reduce your risk.
When it comes to fibre, stick to natural sources—whole grains, fruits, and vegetables—rather than powdered supplements, which can be harsh on your gut.
It’s not just cancer risk that’s concerning. A recent study found that for every 10 per cent increase in calories from ultra-processed foods, the risk of dying early from any cause goes up by nearly 3 per cent.
Shockingly, a ready-to-drink protein shake can be just as unhealthy as a chocolate egg despite its 'health food' marketing. Both are ultra-processed and can contribute to long-term health problems.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them—see your GP as soon as possible.
Read more: Could your favourite snack be causing more deaths than fentanyl? Study reveals shocking truth
