Turns out there’s a new blood test that measures levels of Trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which is an amine oxide generated from choline, betaine, and L-carnitine by gut microbial metabolism.

TMAO, which should be ≤ 6.2, can powerfully predict future risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in patients who appear otherwise healthy, according to the Cleveland Clinic.  For patients with periodontal disease, elevated TMAO levels could increase their risk for heart attack and stroke even further.

L-carnitine is found in red meat and supplements, choline is found in eggs, poultry, seafood and dairy. You may be surprised to learn that choline and/or L-carnitine are also found in energy drinks and weight loss products.

I dropped my TMAO level in about a month by eliminating L-carnitine as a treatment for leg cramps. Have your TMAO level checked and read the labels on your energy drinks and weight loss products.  Ask your patients if they have habits that might increase TMAO levels.

Click this link for a quick read to learn more.