Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a health complication that causes an irregular heartbeat. There are several reasons why one may develop the condition, including health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and also genetics. It also includes lifestyle habits, such as eating unhealthy foods. So if an individual wants to ensure that treatments for atrial fibrillation work well, they must avoid eating these foods. Consult with an expert before modifying the meal regime.

Red meat
Excessive intake of red meat is one of the leading causes of atrial fibrillation. The food contains a high amount of saturated fat. The property is known to increase cholesterol levels, a risk factor for the condition. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the intake of red meat. Beef, pork, lamb, and goat are a few options one must slice out of their daily meal regime. Instead, one could include plant-based protein in their meals to lower cholesterol levels and maintain heart health.

Sausages
Though processed foods like sausages are a go-to choice when one wants to cook up something quickly, they could harm one’s health, especially for someone with AFib. Other processed food choices to avoid include ham and bacon. Even frozen foods like pizzas and burgers are unhealthy for someone with AFib. These are high in salts and preservatives, which may have damaging effects on the heart.

Sugary beverages and foods
Sipping sodas or munching on sugar-rich foods such as cakes, cookies, and chocolates are fun. But these are unhealthy for the human body and may also lead to complications in those with atrial fibrillation. The sugar content in these foods and beverages acts as a trigger for AFib episodes. One should also note that excessive sugar intake may increase the risk of developing heart disease.

Salt
It is common practice for individuals to add salt to meals to enhance their flavor. But doing so may have adverse effects if the individual suffers from the heart condition. The large amounts of salt are associated with an increased risk of AFib symptoms. Therefore, it is imperative to reduce the intake of salt or salty foods to avoid complicating the heart condition.

Coffee
While coffee is a great stimulant to stay energized and awake during stressful work hours, it may lead to complications when consumed in high quantities. Coffee is high in caffeine content, which, according to experts, could lead to episodes of AFib. One should also avoid energy drinks, as these may have similar negative effects on heart health. The drink contains caffeine and other stimulants like sugar and chemicals meant to stimulate the cardiac system. Studies show energy drinks could trigger cardiovascular events like severe cardiac complications and arrhythmias. Therefore, it’s best to avoid eating these foods.

Margarine
Since high blood pressure may increase the risk of AFib, it is important to avoid foods rich in fats. Margarine is high in trans fats, which is associated with a higher risk of developing AFib. Other foods rich in trans fats include foods made with partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, doughnuts, potato chips, and fried foods like burgers. One should also avoid foods with excessive saturated fats, such as cheese and butter, as these could also worsen the symptoms of the heart condition.

Pasta
Foods like pasta are one of the unhealthy choices when it comes to people with AFib. The food product contains gluten, a type of protein found in rye, wheat, and barley. Individuals who are intolerant to gluten or have Celiac disease may experience inflammation in their bodies. Furthermore, the symptom may affect their vagus nerve, which could have a significant impact on heart health. This could make one prone to cardiovascular complications such as atrial fibrillation. Other options high in gluten content include bread, condiments, and other packaged foods.

Grapefruit
While grapefruit might have benefits for the body, its intake might not be suitable for individuals suffering from atrial fibrillation. The food is high in naringenin, a powerful chemical that may interfere with the effectiveness of treatments for atrial fibrillation. Moreover, the juice could obstruct the proper absorption of prescriptions into the blood from the intestines. Therefore, one should avoid grapefruits to ensure their treatments for atrial fibrillation work well. One should also speak to an expert before making any changes to their meal regime.