Atrial Fibrillation is one of the most critical medical condition that anyone can have. The field of medical science is yet to pinpoint an exact cause for why a person develops atrial fibrillation, although studies have already shown the correlation between certain medical conditions and the risk for atrial fibrillation. Having said that, most medical professionals are one in saying that proper monitoring and management of these medical conditions is the best way to lessen the risk for atrial fibrillation. One proven way to managing atrial fibrillation is by watching what you eat:
1. Lessen your salt intake.
If you have an existing heart condition or if you are at risk for one, you would need to cut down your salt intake. Too much salt in your diet can lead to high blood pressure which, in turn, can aggravate your atrial fibrillation. Now, this does not just include putting salt on your steak. This would also mean reading food labels in order to ensure that you limit your salt intake to less than 2,400 milligrams per day.
2. Increase portions of fish in your plate.
A number of previous studies have proven that unsaturated fat reduces the risk for heart diseases as well as helps in making sure that it keeps to a regular pattern. Fish is considered to be one o the best sources of unsaturated fat. Increasing the portions of it during each meal can help significantly lower your risks for developing or suffering from atrial fibrillation. While you’re at it, you might want to consider grilling or broiling your fish instead of having it fried.
3. Use the rule of thirds
When eating, you need to make sure that your plat is composed of two-thirds fruits, vegetables, whole grain, and beans. Food items that are rich in protein should occupy only a third of your plate, especially if they happen to be meat and dairy products. These food items typically have a higher percentage of saturated fat which, as mentioned earlier, can lead to higher risks for a number of heart conditions including atrial fibrillation.
4. Keep your cup of coffee to a minimum.
Although certain studies have shown that drinking coffee to have a youthful effect on the skin, most medical professionals still recommend keeping to about a cup or two, especially if you have a heart condition. This is because coffee, as well as any other drink that has caffeine in it, is considered as a stimulant.
5. Stay away from booze.
A study on how alcohol affects the body has revealed that heavy drinking can trigger the symptoms of atrial fibrillation. This is what most doctors refer to as “holiday heart syndrome”. Now, although moderate drinking does not have that much effect on the heart, it could still trigger fibrillation.
If you are suffering from Atrial Fibrillation, one of the things that you would need to have on a regular basis is a certain dosage of blood thinner, such as Coumadin, in order to lessen the risk of said heart condition. That being the case, most people might tell you to keep away from Vitamin K as it can interfere with the efficacy of your medication. In truth, however, doctors can adjust your dosage in order to ensure that you still get the Vitamin K that you need.
Of course, if you are suffering from Atrial Fibrillation, you need to make sure that you have an AED unit with you.
