Healthy Living Tips From
Can losing weight help your atrial fibrillation?
Atrial fibrillation (sometimes called AF or A-fib) is a disorder
of the electrical impulses that coordinate the beating of the
heart, causing the heart’s two upper chambers – the atria – to
contract in a rapid and irregular way. Atrial fibrillation – the most
common sustained arrhythmia, yet a condition necessitating a
very individualized treatment approach – can increase a
person’s risk of stroke and also contribute to other heart problems.
For those overweight or obese individuals diagnosed with Afib, there’s good news: A presentation at the American Heart
Association’s annual meeting, also published simultaneously in
the Journal of the American Medical Association, reported that
overweight people with atrial fibrillation can actually decrease
their symptoms if they take action and lose weight.
The study showed that participants in a weight-loss and exercise program, who lost an average of 33 pounds, experienced
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fewer and milder symptoms of atrial fibrillation.
So if you’re overweight and have been diagnosed with atrial
fibrillation, take that first step – talk with your healthcare
provider to develop a doable weight-loss plan and exercise program.
Start slowly, focusing on including more healthy foods, fruits
and vegetables in your diet, and start building up to 10-15 hours
of exercise a week. Your heart will thank you, and the promise of
greater health and vitality is a terrific reward!