Even though it may sound surprising, weight loss and atrial fibrillation symptoms are closely connected. Namely, according to scientists, losing excess weight is an effective way for reducing the symptoms of atrial fibrillation. One study found numerous weight loss benefits for those suffering from this type of arrhythmia. If you are one of these people, continue reading this article to find out more:

What is Atrial Fibrillation?

Briefly put, atrial fibrillation also referred to as AFib, is the most common type of irregular heart rhythm, an arrhythmia, causing the atria, the upper chambers of the heart, to beat abnormally or too fast. It can be very dangerous as this irregular heartbeat can cause other serious complications like blood clots, heart failure, and stroke.

This arrhythmia can occur with or without any symptoms but requires immediate treatment as it could lead to life-threatening conditions. Some common AFib symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, racing heart, and dizzy spells. Furthermore, some people may experience only short episodes of atrial fibrillation while for others it could be a permanent condition.

What’s the Connection between Weight and AFib?

In general, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity have all been closely connected to an increased risk of suffering from atrial fibrillation. That said, weight loss could logically reduce AFib symptoms and their severity.

One study that randomly assigned patients to one of two groups focused on the best way for atrial fibrillation patients to lose weight. In the study, the first group got their existing medical risks taken care of and also received both written and verbal advice for losing weight, following a healthy diet, and doing exercise.

The second group, on the other hand, also got the standard advice but was placed on a very strict diet and light exercise. These patients ate just 800-1200 calories a day for the first eight weeks and also took fish oil tablets. Their meals were abundant in protein, both animal and plant-based, and had a low glycemic index. When it comes to exercise, they started with 20-minute walking or cycling sessions three times a week, and then little by little, they increased the duration of their exercise to 45 minutes.

Once the first eight weeks have finished, their low-calorie diet was replaced with a still low glycemic index diet, yet more general diet, for another 13 months. Researchers concluded that the best way for them to lose weight is to keep being motivated and reduce their calorie intake. And, it’s crucial for them to stick to their healthy lifestyle changes and sustain weight loss.

Eventually, the study showed that the patients included in the second group who were also included in the weight loss program experienced a great reduction in the severity of their atrial fibrillation symptoms after just three months.

The difference was even more remarkable after six months. Namely, patients who had lost weight reported experiencing AFib symptoms less frequently and severely, as well as shorter episodes. But that’s not all! Their heart scans showed that the walls of the hearts had become thinner which allowed them greater flexibility to reduce the fibrillations and associated symptoms.

To conclude, weight loss management is of great importance for controlling atrial fibrillation as obesity is linked with high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome. So, if you suffer from AFib and are overweight, ensure you seek professional help to get the right guidance on losing weight and managing atrial fibrillation symptoms.