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10 foods to avoid when dealing with atrial fibrillation

10 foods to avoid when dealing with atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a condition characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia, which begins in the heart’s upper chambers or atria. As less blood is pumped out of the atria, it can accumulate in this region, causing blood clots and increasing the chances of developing a stroke. In addition to timely treatment, a healthy lifestyle and meal plan can help one recover from atrial fibrillation. Here are some foods people with the condition should avoid:

Processed foods
Processed foods contain salt in large amounts, so they can increase sodium levels in the body. High blood pressure and heart disease are common consequences of a high-sodium meal plan. So, those with atrial fibrillation should avoid processed foods like frozen pizza and extremely salty foods like fries, chips, and burgers and replace them with healthy carb and fat sources.

Red meat
Although red meat is an excellent source of iron and protein, it is rich in saturated fats, which can increase the risk of developing heart diseases and aggravate atrial fibrillation symptoms. So, when dealing with atrial fibrillation, one should limit their red meat intake, replacing it with lean meat sources like poultry and venison.

Sugary foods
Studies have demonstrated that those with type-2 diabetes are more susceptible to developing atrial fibrillation than those with normal blood sugar levels. Further, excessive sugar intake has been associated with cardiovascular conditions. People with atrial fibrillation should avoid foods and beverages containing excessive sugar. So, soft drinks, baked goods, and desserts should be strictly limited or avoided.

Caffeinated beverages
Caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee directly affect the nervous system and heart. So, one may experience an increase in heart rate following caffeine intake. As those with atrial fibrillation already have an irregular heartbeat, caffeine intake may worsen their condition. While tea and coffee in limited quantities may act as antioxidants for the body, one should limit caffeine as much as possible while dealing with the condition.

Breakfast cereals
Ready-to-eat breakfast cereals are highly processed and contain a lot of sugar and artificial flavors. As discussed earlier, excessive sugar intake can increase the risk of heart issues, exacerbating the symptoms of atrial fibrillation. It is best to replace such packaged, instant cereals with breakfast options containing whole grains, dairy (if not lactose intolerant), fruits, nuts, sprouts, eggs, and more.

Leafy greens
Although leafy greens are packed with vital nutrients, they are also rich in vitamin K, which plays an integral role in blood clotting. The main symptom of atrial fibrillation is the clotting of blood in the atria, so foods rich in vitamin K can aggravate the condition. However, as vitamin K is an essential nutrient for overall well-being, these foods should be limited and not entirely avoided.

Grapefruit
Grapefruit contains naringenin, a strong chemical that can hamper the effectiveness of treatment prescribed for atrial fibrillation. Although more research is needed to substantiate this claim, those with AFib must consult their doctors before adding grapefruit to their meals.

Aged cheese
Aged cheese varieties like aged cheddar, blue cheese, Swiss cheese, and parmesan cheese are high in tyramine, an amino acid that can elevate blood pressure and contribute to the worsening of atrial fibrillation. Cheese made from pasteurized milk contains lower levels of tyramine and is healthier than aged cheese for those with the condition.

Pickled foods
Similar to aged cheese, pickled foods also contain high levels of tyramine and can worsen atrial fibrillation symptoms. So, those with the condition should avoid foods like sauerkraut, pickled peppers, kimchi, pickled beets, and pickled cucumbers.

Deep-fried foods
Deep-fried foods not only increase the cholesterol levels in the body but also lower the concentrations of good cholesterol. They also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. So, one should avoid deep-fried foods like donuts, fries, fritters, and falafels when dealing with AFib.

In addition to avoiding foods that worsen atrial fibrillation symptoms and following the prescribed treatment course, one should add healthy foods to their meal plans. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, and beans can replenish the body with the required nutrients and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Further, one should make certain lifestyle changes while dealing with the condition. For example, identifying and eliminating stressors, maintaining a healthy sleep cycle, exercising regularly, and ensuring portion control can contribute to a healthy heart and reduce the susceptibility to lifestyle diseases.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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Understanding high cholesterol – Its symptoms and associated risk factors

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver. It builds healthy cell membranes, vitamin D, and certain hormones. Since it cannot dissolve in water, it does not travel through the bloodstream. It is carried by lipoproteins, which are low-density lipoproteins (LDLs, or bad cholesterol) and high-density lipoproteins (HDLs, or good cholesterol). High amounts of LDL or low amounts of HDL can lead to fatty buildup in the blood vessels. High cholesterol To find out one’s cholesterol levels, a lipid profile may be required. Here’s what the results mean: Total cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s total cholesterol: Normal: Less than 200 mg/dL Borderline: 200 to 239 mg/dL High: 240 mg/dL or above LDL cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s LDL cholesterol: Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL Near-optimal: 100 to 129 mg/dL Borderline high: 130 to 159 mg/dL High: 160 to 189 mg/dL Very high: 190 mg/dL or above HDL cholesterol in adults These are the parameters to check one’s HDL cholesterol: Optimal: 60 mg/dL or higher Borderline: 40 to 59 mg/dL among men and 50 to 50 mg/dL among women Low: Under 40 mg/dL among men and under 50 mg/dL among women Medicare insurance covers routine blood checkups for high cholesterol once every five years. Medicare Part B covers all blood work required to monitor cholesterol levels for those living with diagnosed high cholesterol. Additionally, Medicare Part B also covers one cardiovascular disease risk reduction visit each year. Medicare Part D may require prescription coverage for a high cholesterol management plan. Early signs and symptoms of high cholesterol Typically, people with high cholesterol do not exhibit any symptoms. The only way to detect cholesterol levels is via a blood test. However, when left untreated, it could lead to life-threatening conditions such as a stroke or a heart attack. If that occurs, symptoms could include nausea, numbness, slurred speech, extreme fatigue, chest pain or angina, shortness of breath, numbness or coldness in extremities, and high blood pressure. Risk factors associated with high cholesterol Although there are no signs or symptoms of high cholesterol, several factors may increase one’s risk of developing this condition. Some of these include the following:   Lack of exercise: Exercise can help boost good cholesterol (HDL) in the body and improve cardiovascular health. Poor eating habits: Constantly eating foods high in saturated and trans fats can lead to high cholesterol and related conditions. Type-2 diabetes: This condition can negatively affect the amount of good cholesterol (HDL) in the body and increase bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, raising the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Family history: People with the inherited condition familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) live with very high LDL levels from a very young age. When left untreated, it can also increase one’s risk of other conditions. Those with a family history of early heart attacks must speak to their doctor and get tested for FH. Age: The risk of high cholesterol increases with age, as the liver cannot clear out LDLs as effectively. Although this condition can occur at any age, people over 40 are at a higher risk of developing high cholesterol. Sex: Until menopause, women tend to have lower LDL levels (bad cholesterol) than men. On the other hand, men have higher HDL levels (good cholesterol) at all ages.   Effects of high cholesterol levels When left untreated, high cholesterol levels can lead to fat deposition in the arteries, potentially clogging them. This process is known as atherosclerosis and can lead to severe conditions such as the following:   Coronary artery disease: When cholesterol builds up in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart, it is known as coronary artery disease. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, weakness, lightheadedness, nausea, cold sweat, pain or discomfort in the arms or shoulders, and shortness of breath. Peripheral artery disease: Peripheral artery disease is caused by narrowing and plaque buildup in the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the legs. Symptoms of peripheral artery disease include aches, pains, or cramps in the buttocks, hips, thighs, or calves; muscle atrophy; hair loss; sores and ulcers that don’t heal; and cold or numb toes. Carotid artery disease: Carotid arteries supply blood to the brain. The deposition of plaque in these arteries leads to carotid artery disease. Symptoms include blurred vision or vision loss, confusion, memory loss, numbness or weakness in some parts of the body, and problems with thinking, memory, reasoning, and speech.      

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