If you’re 65, you probably have a few friends who might have atrial fibrillation. ?The American Heart Association says 5% of those over 65 do, and that the condition occurs when the two upper-chambers of the heart quiver rather than beat normally because blood isn’t pumped fully out of the chambers. ?Unfortunately, this can cause blood pooling and eventually clots. ?The clot can then move and lodge in a brain artery and bring on a stroke. This is serious business. ?That’s why it’s so important to take care of yourself, receive medical care if you have this condition, and maintain a heart-healthy diet, which may help prevent stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Below is a list of foods to avoid if you have A-Fib.

Sugar

Artificially sweetened and pre-packaged sweets — like candy, cakes, pastries and cookies — are very high in calories and low in fiber and nutrients. Additionally, foods that contain hydrogenated vegetable oil contribute trans-fats to your diet, which may increase your risk for stroke. ?So, limit the amount of sugar you add to beverages and other foods and choose fresh or frozen fruits or whole grains instead of commercial sweets to satisfy that sweet tooth of yours.

Dairy and High-fat Meats

A lot of protein is not always the best medicine. ?Many people experience adverse health effects as a result of high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets, which tend to be high in saturated fat and cholesterol. These problems involve cardiovascular problems including atrial fibrillation, artery blockage and an increased risk for stroke. To maintain modest saturated fat and cholesterol intake and lower your risk for cardiovascular events, it’s important to select lean protein sources, such as lentils, beans and fish, over fatty meats and dairy products. ?Meats that are high in fat include fried chicken, organ meats, bacon, sausage, lamb, dark-meat poultry and beef. High-fat dairy products include whole milk, high-fat cheese, ice cream and heavy cream. ?Stay away from these particular foods.

Enriched Grains

Refined grains are a no-no as well. Grains provide glucose, and glucose is your body’s main dietary source of energy. To prevent strokes, medical professionals suggest incorporating fiber-rich foods in your diet. Compared to whole grains, such as barley, brown rice and oats, refined grains (instant rice, enriched pasta, baked goods made with white flower and white bread) contain little protein, nutrients or fiber. Rather, they’re packed with non-nourishing “fillers”. ?Whole grains promote appetite and weight control, which is important for guarding against cardiovascular disease.

Sodium

While salt (sodium) plays an important role in human health by managing fluid balance, excessive consumption can increase the workload on your heart, making it more difficult for blood to flow freely. If you have atrial fibrillation, a high-sodium diet may magnify your current risks. Particularly sodium-rich foods include frozen meals, canned foods, pretzels, crackers, table salt, frozen meals and soy sauce. ?Lowering sodium intake is not difficult. ?Eat primarily whole, natural foods, which typically supply enough sodium, and cut back on the processed junk. Low-sodium seasoning is a good idea as well. ?You can use condiments such as oregano, lemon juice, low-sodium salt blends, garlic, basil and natural herbs.

About Author: David Novak is a international syndicated newspaper columnist, appearing in newspapers, magazines, radio and TV around the world. His byline has appeared in GQ, National Geographic, Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, USA Today, among others, and he has appeared on The Today Show, the CBS Morning Show and Paul Harvey Radio. David is a specialist at consumer technology, health and fitness, and he also owns a PR firm and a consulting company where he and his staff focus on these industries. He is a regular contributing editor for Healthline. For more information, visit http://www.healthline.com/.
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