Living with atrial fibrillation (AFib) is managed not only by medical treatments, surgery, and other procedures. But, also by lifestyle changes, particularly in terms of your diet, to handle this condition effectively. AFib occurs due to irregular heartbeats within the upper part of your heart that receive blood from the rest of the body. This irregular beat reduces heart efficiency and increases its workload.
Research has also linked this condition to escalating the risk of stroke and heart failure, underscoring the importance of dietary adjustments.
Here are 10 food items you should eliminate from your diet to properly manage your AFib:
- Alcohol
- Fat
- Salt
- Caffeine
- Sugar
- Gluten
- Vitamin K
- Grapefruit
- Fried chicken
- High-tyramine foods
Alcohol
Firstly, alcohol intake should be carefully moderated. Excessive alcohol consumption heightens AFib risk and might trigger episodes, particularly in those with existing heart conditions or diabetes.
Studies like this paper published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology have demonstrated that even moderate alcohol intake can contribute to hypertension, obesity, and sleep-disordered breathing. These are all factors linked to AFib. [1]
However, if you adhere to the recommended daily limits of 2 drinks per day for men and 1 per day for women, your risk of AFib may not escalate. However, it is even better if you can quit drinking. As noted in a 2020 study which revealed a significant reduction in arrhythmia recurrences among regular drinkers with AFib who quit alcohol. [2]
