“Eggs also contain a certain type of nutrient that is processed into [a molecule called] TMAO that we know increases plaque buildup in the heart. There might be some correlation of what TMAO is doing in the heart and the brain,” Mosquera said, though she added this is speculation. Plaque causes narrowing in arteries, which can contribute to stroke.
Feller’s theory is that “it could be changes in the omega 3 fatty acids in combination with vitamin B12” in a vegetarian and vegan diet.
“There were a couple researchers in other avenues pointing to these factors” she added.
(MORE: Just 1 drink a day might increase risk of stroke: Study )
The researchers of the British study did collect data on other factors that can affect heart disease and stroke, including smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and hormone use (such as birth control or hormone replacement therapy after menopause). But accounting for these other factors did not change the results — vegetarians were still more likely to have strokes than meat-eaters.
One issue is that a vegetarian diet today means something different than it did 20 years ago.
“What has been available to vegetarians has completely changed. If people are eating vegetarian convenience diet, or foods that are packaged, that is different than a whole or minimally processed diet,” said Feller.
(MORE: 5 ways to protect yourself from heart disease during American Heart Month)
So, what diet should you be eating?
“The best diet is something that is sustainable, feels good for you, and is good for your health. There is no one size fits all,” said Feller.
Mosquera added, “Historically the biggest thing I can say is that fruits and vegetables are not bad for your health. Not much could go wrong with increasing fruits and vegetables in your diet.”
As a reminder, any dramatic changes to your diet should be discussed with a doctor and/or registered dietician. Plant-only diets that exclude processed grains are susceptible to low vitamin B12 intake. Severe vitamin B12 deficiency can cause nerve damage and blindness, as previously reported by ABC News.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
