Lean, Not Processed: GI Doctor's Gut-Friendly Meat Guide

A gastroenterologist warns that ultra-processed, high-saturated-fat meats like bacon, sausage, and pepperoni delay gastric emptying, can worsen reflux, and may inflame the gut or raise colorectal cancer risk. The gut-friendly options are lean, minimally processed meats such as poultry and fish, which digest more easily and can offer anti-inflammatory omega-3 benefits. Beef isn’t off-limits, but should be chosen mindfully with moderate portions and less processing.