AFib (Atrial fibrillation) is a common abnormal heart rhythm. It has plagued millions of people. AFib is associated with an increased risk for stroke, heart failure, dementia and mortality. Other risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, congestive heart failure, heart attack, thyroid disease and obesity. AFib also occurs after cardiac surgery. New evidence shows that lifestyle factors like diet can play important parts in atrial fibrillation risk and prevention. Here are the best foods for AFib.
Corn
According to research, corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil is the best way to improve heart health because corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging LDL or bad cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, lower blood pressure, and minimize the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Fish
Certain types of fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Many studies have foundthat omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial to heart health. These fatty acids derived from fish can aid the heart in recovering from a traumatic episode. Eat oily fish such as wild salmon, sardine, and anchovy. Shellfish are excellent as well. But remember, consuming a moderate amount of them is good, not too much.
Fresh fruits
Fresh fruits like apples, mango, papaya and kiwi are good enough to heart health. Apples are known to help reduce cholesterol levels. And mango, papaya and kiwi are high in vitamin C, which is key to decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress, both related to atrial fibrillation. Vitamin C is also crucial to health of blood vessels and the heart. It is also required for proper functioning of most of the body. Interestingly, when patients were given vitamin C with medication pre- and post- heart surgery, they had a much lower incidence of AFib than the patients given only the medication.
Whole grains
Grains are essential part of a healthy diet because they are complex carbohydrates. There are differences between refined grain and whole grain. The Mayo Clinic said that refined grains are processed to prolong their shelf life. And whole grains don not undergo milling, hence they are a better source of fiber and magnesium. People can easily add some to the diet by eating foods like brown rice, oatmeal or buckwheat.