Healthy Foods for Atrial Fibrillation

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and veggies are pillars of a heart-healthy diet, according to the Mayo Clinic. They provide rich amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber and relatively few calories per serving. Staying within your caloric needs by limiting high-fat and high-sugar processed foods and upping your fiber intake can help ensure healthy weight and blood pressure control, leading to a healthier heart and arteries. Fiber promotes blood sugar and appetite control and overall cardiovascular health. Natural substances in plants called phytochemicals may help prevent cardiovascular disease. Particularly nutritious fiber-rich fruits and vegetables include berries, Asian pears, artichokes, winter squash and cooked leafy greens.

Whole Grains

Whole grains also provide hefty amounts of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Whole-grain fiber promotes healthy cholesterol levels, says the American Heart Association, and may help prevent heart disease. Positive cholesterol health guards against AF complications overall. For maximum benefits, swap refined-grain products, such as enriched breads, white rice and pretzels, with whole-grain alternatives. Nutritious options include oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, air-popped popcorn and 100-percent whole-grain bread. Avoid salty items, such as whole-wheat pretzels, because a salt-rich diet can increase your blood pressure and other AF-related risks.

Cold-Water Fish

Omega-3 fatty acids are considered heart disease-fighting superstars. Cold-water fish are prime sources. Omega-3s reduce inflammation in your body, says the University of Maryland Medical Center, lowering your risk for cholesterol, arterial and heart problems. Fish also provide heart-healthy alternatives to protein sources high in inflammatory fats, such as red, fried and processed meats. Fish that are particularly rich in omega-3s include halibut, mackerel, herring and salmon. Use low-fat cooking methods, such as poaching, baking and grilling, and avoid salty and fatty ingredients. Natural herbs and fruit zest provide fat-free, low-sodium alternatives to table salt, soy sauce and commercial marinades.

Healthy Oils

Every healthy diet contains moderate amounts of fat, which is not the same as the fat in your body. Dietary fats promote nutrient absorption and normal brain function while enhancing the texture and flavor of dishes making them more satisfying. The Mayo Clinic lists olive and canola as valuable heart-healthy oils. Walnut, hemp and flaxseed oils also provide valuable amounts of helpful fats. Brush baked potatoes with olive oil instead of butter, and use canola oil, which is flavorless, instead of butter or shortening to keep baked goods, lean meats and fish from sticking to pans.