How can I reduce my risk of developing atrial fibrillation?

How can I reduce my risk of developing atrial fibrillation?

If you have other medical conditions or a family history of Afib, you may feel like it’s impossible to prevent. It’s true that some risk factors can’t be changed. However, the four major risk factors for Afib that we can change are obesity, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use. Here are some tips to lower your risk:

• Follow a heart-healthy diet.
• Add aerobic exercise to your routine. Try for at least 150 minutes per week. Learn the target heart rate for your age and monitor your heart rate throughout exercise. Be sure to talk with your provider before starting any exercise plan.
• Limit your alcohol consumption.
• Quit smoking and using tobacco products. It can be hard to do this alone. With the right resources and support, you can achieve this goal and make your heart healthier.

As you lower these risk factors, you will also see other benefits like reduced blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels and weight loss. When it comes to heart health, each positive lifestyle change has a ripple effect. The more changes you can make, the more benefits you will enjoy in the long run.