American researchers explain why red meat damages heart

WASHINGTON: Gut bacteria can turn a nutrient found in red meat into metabolites that increase the risk of developing heart disease, according to a US study out Tuesday that may lead to new strategies for safeguarding individuals' cardiovascular health.

"The findings identify the pathways and participants involved more clearly, and help identify targets for therapies for interventions to block or prevent heart disease development," said Stanley Hazen of Cleveland Clinic, who led the study.