Researchers trying to figure out how meat causes heart disease came up with another possible explanation that an essential nutrient found in meat and eggs might be a culprit. They found evidence that choline may feed gut bacteria that in turn produce a compound that makes blood sticky and prone to form clots that can cause heart attacks and strokes. They also found that found that other compounds found in animal products also raise levels of TMAO. Gut microbial production of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) from dietary nutrients like choline, lecithin, and L-carnitine is linked to the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Key Takeaway: A Mediterranean or vegetarian diet is reported to best help reduce TMAO.