Diet Do’s and Don’ts for Managing A-fib
Jul 02, 2026
Atrial fibrillation is a common heart arrhythmia in which the upper chambers of the heart beat erratically. When this occurs, the heart doesn't pump enough blood to the body, causing symptoms such as extreme fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Professional treatments are necessary to manage A-fib, but you can also prevent health complications by changing your diet.
At Honeycomb Medical Group in Memphis, Tennessee, and Holly Springs, Mississippi, our primary care specialists offer lifestyle tips, diet advice, and other treatments as part of chronic care management.
We’re happy to provide routine checkups, lab testing, and remote patient monitoring to help you successfully manage A-fib symptoms.
A healthy lifestyle is the best way to manage chronic conditions such as A-fib. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can control symptoms and prevent complications.
Your diet plays a major role in controlling A-fib symptoms. Overly processed foods, caffeine, and alcohol increase weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol, all of which can lead to complications such as a heart attack or stroke.
Heart-healthy foods lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of serious health concerns related to A-fib.
If you live with A-fib, adopting a heart-healthy diet is a great way to complement other treatments. We recommend eating the following foods to control symptoms and keep your heart working well:
Low-fat dairy options such as yogurt, milk, and certain cheeses are better for the heart than full-fat options, which can raise cholesterol.
Fish, turkey, and chicken are good lean protein options for maintaining a healthy weight and heart. Plant-based proteins are also better than red and processed meats.
Olive or avocado oil and fatty fish rich in omega-3s promote a stable heart rhythm.
Quinoa, whole wheat, and brown rice are whole grains that support heart health by reducing inflammation.
Vegetables and fruits contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support a healthy weight.
Lentils, walnuts, almonds, and beans contain antioxidants and healthy fats.
The foods below are dangerous to those with A-fib and could lead to life-threatening health complications:
Sodas, energy drinks, and processed baked goods or sweets contribute to obesity and increase the risk of heart disease.
Caffeine naturally increases heart rate and contributes to A-fib symptoms. Stay away from or limit coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soda.
Limiting alcohol is crucial to avoid A-fib spikes. Even a small amount of alcohol can trigger increased symptoms and potential complications.
Grapefruit interacts with some medications, such as blood-thinners that treat A-fib. It's best to avoid it.
High sodium intake and processed foods can worsen blood pressure and A-fib symptoms. Stick to a whole-food diet to avoid worsening A-fib.
Want to learn more about how your diet affects A-fib and other heart issues? Call us today at one of our convenient Mid-South locations.