American Gastroenterological Association Jun 24 2026 Reviewed New research sheds light on why red meat may worsen inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - and how other protein sources could help protect the gut.  In a new study published to publish in  Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology , researchers found that mice fed a beef-based diet developed the most severe intestinal inflammation . At the same time, those consuming pea protein showed only mild symptoms.  IBD cases have risen in the U.S.