Trimethylamine-N-Oxide (TMAO): The Gut–Heart Connection

Introduction

TMAO is a metabolite produced by gut bacteria when digesting nutrients like choline and carnitine. Elevated TMAO has been linked to cardiovascular risk and metabolic imbalance.

What is TMAO?

Trimethylamine-N-oxide forms in the liver after gut microbes metabolize dietary compounds. It is considered a marker of gut–microbiome interaction with host health.

Why TMAO Matters for Health

• Associated with cardiovascular risk
• Reflects gut microbiome activity
• Linked to kidney and metabolic health
• Emerging marker in personalized nutrition

How TMAO is Measured

TMAO is measured in blood or urine. Urinary TMAO provides a simple, non-invasive marker for gut–heart interactions.

Factors That Influence TMAO

Diet, gut microbiota composition, kidney function, and lifestyle all affect TMAO levels.

Scientific Evidence

Wang et al. (2011) and Tang et al. (2013) linked higher TMAO levels to cardiovascular risk in large cohort studies.

How to Monitor at Home

Our Gut & Heart Wellness Kit allows convenient urine sampling to explore TMAO patterns.

FAQs

Q: What foods increase TMAO?
A: Red meat, eggs, and certain fish.

Q: Can gut health lower TMAO?
A: Yes, probiotics and plant-based diets may help.

Q: Is TMAO only linked to heart health?
A: It also relates to kidney and metabolic function.

Q: Why test urine instead of blood?
A: Urine collection is non-invasive and reflects overall excretion.

Conclusion

TMAO bridges the gut and heart connection. Monitoring levels can guide dietary and lifestyle adjustments for long-term wellness