The Risks Linked to <br />Eating Red Meat People who eat red meat produce a chemical known as TMAO in <br />their body. People with high levels of TMAO may be at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks <br />and strokes. Vegetarians and vegans tend to have lower levels of TMAO, which can lead to a lower risk of heart disease death. Dan Nadeau, endocrinologist, Hoag Hospital, <br />via 'Medical Daily' Meat is one of the biggest sources <br />of saturated fat in a typical <br />American diet. Saturated fat can increase the levels of cholesterol in our blood, which is not healthy for the heart. The World Health Organization has classified red meat as a "probable carcinogenic" to human beings. Cooking methods like stewing and steaming are recommended over grilling and frying. High-temperature cooking methods can lead to the formation of cancer-causing compounds.