Meat Protects Against Cancer, Suggests Controversial Study. Here's The Catch.

For years, health authorities have warned against red meat consumption, with the World Health Organization 's cancer research arm classifying it as "probably carcinogenic to humans". But a controversial new study challenges that position, suggesting that animal protein might protect against cancer deaths rather than cause them.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) , part of the WHO, has long classified red meat, including beef, pork, lamb and mutton, as probably carcinogenic. And processed meats such as bacon and sausages are classified as definite carcinogens. This judgment reflects multiple studies linking red meat to colorectal cancer , forming the basis of dietary advice to limit intake.

Yet the new research by Canada's McMaster University suggests the opp