I've been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. Should I make changes to my diet?
Answer From Rekha Mankad, M.D.
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and often very rapid heartbeat. Making healthy diet changes can help improve overall heart health.
A heart healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Also choose proteins such as lean meats, nuts, seeds and beans. Reduce sugar, salt and saturated fats.
If you have AFib, you also may need to avoid some specific foods or drinks. For example, your healthcare professional may suggest that you limit or avoid alcohol. Alcohol can cause health issues in some people.
People with atrial fibrillation usually take blood thinners to prevent blood clots. If you're taking a blood thinner called warfarin (Jantoven), your healthcare professional may tell you to limit leafy green vegetables. Such vegetables include spinach and kale. They contain vitamin K. High levels of vitamin K can change the way warfarin works in the body. Talk to your healthcare team about your specific diet and what's best for you.
Healthy lifestyle changes are an important part of treatment for atrial fibrillation. In addition to eating nutritious foods, your care team will likely recommend the following changes to improve your heart health:
- Do not smoke or use tobacco.
- Get regular exercise.
- Stay at a healthy weight.
- Control cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
- Manage stress.
- Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily.
It's also important to have regular health checkups. Tell your healthcare team if your AFib symptoms get worse.
Show References
- Atrial fibrillation — Living with. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/atrial-fibrillation/living-with. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- Arrhythmias — Living with. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/arrhythmias/living-with. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- Spragg D. Epidemiology of and risk factors for atrial fibrillation. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- Hull RD, et al. Warfarin and other VKAs: Dosing and adverse effects. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov. Accessed June 7, 2022.
- American Heart Association adds sleep to cardiovascular health checklist. American Heart Association. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/american-heart-association-adds-sleep-to-cardiovascular-health-checklist. Accessed Feb. 26, 2022.
Original article: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/expert-answers/diet-atrial-fibrillation/faq-20118479