What lifestyle change is associated with reduced TMAO production?

Choosing to adopt a vegan diet is associated with reduced levels of TMAO (trimethylamine N-oxide) production. TMAO is a compound linked to cardiovascular diseases and is primarily formed when gut bacteria metabolize nutrients found in certain animal products, especially those rich in choline and carnitine, which are abundant in red meat, eggs, and dairy.

A vegan diet eliminates these animal-based foods, leading to a decrease in the substrates needed for TMAO formation. Instead, a vegan diet typically focuses on plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, which not only lack the building blocks for TMAO but are also rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients that promote gut health.

By reducing or eliminating animal protein and processed foods, which are often high in these TMAO-producing compounds, individuals who adopt a vegan diet significantly lower their risk of TMAO-related health issues, contributing positively to cardiovascular health. Thus, the reduction in TMAO production is a direct reflection of the dietary choices made in a vegan lifestyle.