Do you suffer from heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat? If you do, you’re not alone. According to the CDC, 12.1 million Americans will suffer from atrial fibrillation by the year 2030.
As heart abnormalities can lead to other health consequences, you want to make sure that you take the appropriate steps to manage the issue. Luckily, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to ensure your heart is as normal as possible.
Keep reading to learn about eight tips that will help you go about managing atrial fibrillation.
- Avoid Irritants
If you’re a coffee-lover, switching to decaf might be in your best interests. Caffeine energizes your nervous system, thereby increasing your heart rate.
Aside from caffeinated coffee, you’ll also want to avoid certain types of teas, sodas, and energy drinks.
- Pay Attention to Your Diet
The foods you eat have a big impact on the health of your heart, meaning that you should put a lot of thought into them. Fruits and vegetables, healthy meats, and whole grains are great for heart health.
On the other hand, simple carbs, trans fat, and MSG can be harmful.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption
Studies have shown that drinking too much alcohol increases the chances that you’ll develop AFib. Alcohol increases your heart rate and can also cause you to become dehydrated.
- Stay Hydrated
Aside from avoiding alcohol, you’ll also want to make sure that you drink a ton of water. If regular water is too simple for you, consider giving coconut water a try. Not only is it delicious, but it also comes loaded with potassium and magnesium.
- Try Supplements
Supplements such as fish oil, hawthorn berry, and taurine can also give the heart during atrial fibrillation the boost it needs. Just make sure to speak to your doctor before you begin to take them.
- Consider the Effects of Gluten
If you suffer from AFib, you might want to see whether or not you have a gluten allergy, as well. Studies have shown that AFib and celiac disease often go hand in hand with one another.
Giving up pasta and bread might not sound fun, but remember the plethora of gluten-free options that exist today.
- Stay Active
Although you want to make sure you don’t push your heart rate through the roof, moderate exercise is great for a healthy heart. Know your limits, and stop if you begin to feel too exhausted or out of breath.
- Be Aware of Your Mental Health
Your physical health is important, but make sure your mental health stays strong as well. Try to cut down on stress, get plenty of sleep, and practice exercises and techniques such as yoga and deep breathing.
Make Managing Atrial Fibrillation a Priority
Managing atrial fibrillation may seem like a challenge, especially when the symptoms become severe. However, by following the tips laid out in this guide, you’ll be able to help your heart operate as healthily and normally as possible.
Do you now have a better understanding of how to promote a healthy heart? If you do, remember to check out some of our other articles for more tips on how to live a happy and healthy life.