Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythm. It can lead to blood clotting if left untreated. Several factors contribute to the development of the condition, including what one eats. Certain foods worsen the symptoms and frequency of AFib episodes, while others can support heart health and help alleviate the condition. So, here is a look at a few foods that can worsen AFIb and should be avoided:

What is atrial fibrillation?
Atria refers to the upper chambers of the heart. Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder characterized by irregular and rapid electrical signals in the organ. When the signals become irregular, it leads to poor circulation of blood and heart palpitations, with the atria quivering instead of contracting as they normally would. Common symptoms one may experience with AFib are chest pain, trouble breathing, lightheadedness, fatigue, and dizziness. In the worst cases, it may lead to heart stroke and heart failure.

Foods to avoid
Coffee and energy drinks
Coffee contains high levels of caffeine—a stimulant that is known to increase heart rate and worsen AFib episodes. Other beverages like energy drinks, black tea, and some soft drinks also are rich in caffeine and are best avoided or limited to avoid worsening the symptoms.

Bread and pasta
Gluten is a common protein found in wheat and grains like barley and rye. While gluten sensitivity or intolerance is more commonly associated with digestive issues, studies suggest it may also affect cardiovascular health, including worsening AFib and its symptoms. One should note that gluten-rich foods may not affect everyone the same way, so their effect on Afib can vary from person to person. But individuals with gluten-related conditions should avoid or limit foods such as bread and pasta.

Grapefruit
One should exercise caution when adding grapefruit or grapefruit juice to daily meals. Certain treatment options for AFib may become ineffective due to a compound called naringenin, which is found abundantly in grapefruit. Alternatively, grapefruit may also interfere with the absorption of essential treatments in the bloodstream. One should consult a healthcare professional to ensure they can add certain fruits and vegetables to daily meals when managing AFib.

Refined sugar
Store-bought or packaged food like candies and sauces, commercially baked goods like crackers, cookies, donuts, cakes, and desserts, and beverages like sweet sodas contain high levels of refined sugars. This ingredient can lead to inflammation and an increased risk of diabetes, both of which can trigger episodes of atrial fibrillation. It is important to read the food labels on products carefully to know the amount of sugar they contain. One can also find sugar in products under names like lactose, maltose, cane sugar, grape sugar, raw sugar, sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, fruit juice concentrate, fructose, dextrose, glucose, and maple or malt syrup.

Salty foods
An increase in salt intake and other foods that are rich in sodium can worsen AFib symptoms. Sodium retains fluids in the body and is known to elevate blood pressure, which can aggravate AFib. Seemingly harmless food items can also contain high amounts of sodium. One should avoid foods like processed meat like sausages, bacon, and deli and packaged snacks like chips and fries. Most frozen foods and canned items like soups contain high levels of salt to maintain freshness, in addition to preservatives and other chemical agents that enhance their flavor. Apart from eliminating or limiting the intake of the mentioned food items, one can also reduce the amount of salt they add to meals.

Butter, cheese, and other fatty foods
Foods high in saturated fats can increase inflammation and elevate cholesterol levels. This can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, which can worsen AFib symptoms. One should consult a doctor before opting for full-fat dairy products as well, as they may also affect AFib symptoms, especially if one is lactose intolerant.

Red meat
Red meat like beef, veal, pork, and lamb contain trans fats, which can increase the level of bad cholesterol in the body. This, in turn, can cause high blood pressure and a spike in stored fats in the body, putting one at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

White rice
One of the foods that worsen atrial fibrillation is white rice, which is polished and processed to remove its fiber-rich coating. Fiber is important for heart health and can improve cholesterol levels, keep one full for a longer time (helping avoid overeating), and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. So, one should substitute white rice with whole grains containing more fiber like brown or red rice.

Ways to improve heart health
One needs to focus on balanced meals full of essential nutrients. One can opt for plant-based food items rich in monounsaturated fats, like nuts, seeds, and avocados. Similarly, one can also get healthy fats from corn oil, olive oil, or soybean oil. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods like berries can reduce oxidative stress in the body, while magnesium-rich foods can help maintain regular heart rhythm. Legumes and whole grains are good options here. Fruits and vegetables are low in sugar content and rich in nutrients, making them an ideal choice for those with heart-related conditions. Leafy greens, in particular, can give one a boost of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants. This, in turn, reduces blood pressure and improves heart health. In addition to nutrition, here are essential ways to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle:

– Drinking adequate amounts of water to maintain hydration levels
– Taking up stress management techniques such as exercise, meditation, and deep breathing to avoid excessive pressure on the heart
– Managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes
– Getting enough sleep at night

Everyone has unique needs, so it is important to consult a healthcare professional to get a personalized food plan. This will not only help one manage health concerns but also improve overall well-being.