Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is a condition that affects the regularity of your heartbeat. During atrial fibrillation, the upper chambers of your heart, known as the atria, beat out of sync with the lower chambers, known as the ventricles. Vitamins and minerals that support heart health may play a role in the prevention of atrial fibrillation. Contact your doctor before attempting to treat a medical condition with nutritional supplements or other forms of alternative medicine.
Atrial Fibrillation
Palpitations are often the main symptom of atrial fibrillation. Palpitations may make you feel as though your heart is racing or is flopping inside your chest. Other symptoms include weakness, lightheadedness, chest pain, confusion and shortness of breath. Atrial fibrillation may occur sporadically or can be a chronic condition. A number of conditions may cause atrial fibrillation. These include high blood pressure, abnormal heart valves, heart attacks, previous heart surgery and sick sinus syndrome, a condition that affects your heart's natural rate of contractions. Certain vitamins may help to promote overall heart health, boosting your heart's ability to function at an optimal level.
Vitamins
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, inadequate levels of vitamins with antioxidant properties, such as vitamins A, C and E, may play a role in the development of heart disease. Folic acid and B-12 deficiencies may increase your risk of heart failure and heart disease. Niacin, also called vitamin B-3, can help to improve your cholesterol levels, helping to support the health of your cardiovascular system. Although these vitamins may have an overall beneficial effect on your heart, there is no evidence that they can specifically prevent or treat atrial fibrillation.
Magnesium
Like vitamins, your body requires certain minerals to function properly. Magnesium is a mineral that directly affects the health of your heart, as well as other muscles, organs and bones. This mineral helps your heart maintain a normal rhythm. Magnesium is often part of an intravenous treatment designed to reduce the incidence of cardiac arrhythmia and irregular heartbeat in patients.
Precautions
Seek immediate medical care if you experience chest pain or any unusual sensations in your heart. Although a balanced diet that includes vitamins and minerals can help to promote good health, nutritional supplements are not standard or proven remedies for atrial fibrillation, a condition that can have a serious underlying cause. Discuss your vitamin and mineral supplements with your doctor, especially if you take medications.
Member Comments