diyhealth.com

Different Ways to Reduce the Risk of Getting Atrial Fibrillation

If Atrial Fibrillation tends to run in your family, then it’s best that you live a healthy life and try to avoid getting it.

Since one can’t easily detect Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), it can be highly dangerous. You won’t know you have it until you undergo physical check-up and the doctor gives you a diagnosis. However, you don’t have to wait for the positive result. If you try to live your life as healthy as you can, then you might not be able to suffer from it ever.

Here are some effective ways you can prevent Atrial Fibrillation.

  1. Follow a heart healthy diet

Plan your diet regime carefully. It’s best if you stick to foods with low trans fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Cut back on your caffeine, salt, and alcohol. The three of them can easily trigger the symptoms of AFib. On the other hand, fill up on potassium. Eat lots of fruits (oranges, bananas, apricots), and vegetables (beets and potatoes). Try to have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Also, try to include whole grains in your diet. You can east kasha or oatmeal during breakfast. The ideal amount of whole grains you should take daily is six servings.

Without proper control of your diet, you may be able to show signs that you have atrial fibrillation. In this case, consult your doctor right away.

  1. Stop smoking

There are chemicals in tobacco smoke that will harm your blood cells, your heart, and your blood vessels. As a result, it will increase the risk of getting any kind of heart diseases including atherosclerosis, coronary heart diseases, peripheral artery diseases, and atrial fibrillation. When you combine smoking with other risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, etc., the risk increases even more.

  1. Engage in physical activities.

Staying active will not only help you curb obesity, but it will also lower your chances of getting heart diseases like AFib. Thus, the American Heart Association highly recommends that families engage in a heart-healthy lifestyle by regularly going on exercise together.

Physical activity does not necessarily mean going to the gym, however. It can pertain to any muscle movement that requires your energy. Thus, it includes dancing, walking, running, gardening, yoga, etc. Make sure that your exercise is especially tailored for your body. Don’t force yourself to lift weights when you don’t have the right strength and skills. If you just want to improve your heart and lungs’ performance, then engage in aerobic activities.

  1. Manage your stress wisely.

Research has proven time and again that emotionally upsetting events can trigger heart problems. Stress is one of the main contributors to cardiovascular risks. Not only does it make a person feel anxious, but it also leads to the development of unhealthy habits like smoking, overeating, drinking, etc. as a means to cope up with it. Learning how to manage stress will help you a lot.

Activities that will help you reduce stress include participating in stress management programs, being physically active, going on a relaxing trip, and talking with close friends and family.

Final Thoughts

The best way to avoid any kind of heart disease is to stay healthy– physically, mentally, and emotionally. Also, don’t be afraid to seek professional health when you need it.

Article Submitted By Community Writer

Today's Top Articles:

Scroll to Top