Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Reveals Gut Health Crisis Amid Dramatic Weight Loss

September 2, 2025 - Venice, Italy

Hollywood superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson surprised fans and health experts alike today by opening up about a serious gut health issue that preceded his recent 28-kilogram weight loss for his role as MMA legend Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine.

Johnson, 53, appeared on the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival with a noticeably leaner frame-down from approximately 136 kg (300 lbs) to around 108 kg (240 lbs). While many assumed his transformation was solely driven by rigorous training and dietary changes, Johnson disclosed that a misdiagnosed heart condition nearly led him to unnecessary medication. Further testing revealed that years of heavy antibiotic use had severely disrupted his gut microbiome, causing chronic deficiencies and inflammation. Upon discovering the root cause, Johnson worked with specialists to restore balance through targeted probiotics, a plant-based gut health shake, and tailored nutrient supplementation including vitamin D, omega-3s, magnesium, and folate.

“Real fitness is not about how big your muscles are,” said Johnson, emphasizing that internal wellness must precede external transformation. He stressed the importance of relying on data-driven lab results rather than popular fitness trends or generalized prescriptions. “The numbers don’t lie,” he remarked, underscoring his belief that advanced biomarker scans and blood panels provide the clarity needed to address underlying health issues.

Johnson’s revelation has sparked a broader conversation about the hidden health challenges faced by athletes and performers who undergo drastic physical changes. By sharing his journey, Johnson hopes to encourage fans to seek comprehensive medical evaluation before pursuing extreme fitness goals-a message he considers essential not only for his own well-being but also for setting a positive example for his family. “Health is the best gift you can give your kids,” he noted, reflecting on the long-term perspective he gained from his gut health ordeal.