AFib supplements: Safety and what to avoid

Can vitamin D supplements cause atrial fibrillation?

It appears unlikely. In fact, a study from Finland suggests that vitamin D supplements could actually help reduce the risk of AFib in older adults., Other research has also reported an association between vitamin D deficiency and AFib.

Should I take magnesium if I have AFib?

Magnesium deficiency may have links to an increased AFib risk, but studies have not shown the benefits of taking magnesium supplements., Some research suggests that taking intravenous magnesium, which healthcare professionals administer via the veins, alongside standard AFib treatments could help manage people’s heart rates. , However, the study did not look at magnesium supplements that people can take at home. , Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking any supplements with AFib.

What is the best vitamin for an irregular heartbeat?

Some studies suggest there may be a link between certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies (magnesium, selenium, and vitamin C) and the risk of AFib., However, studies have not proven supplementing helps with AFib. More studies are necessary before making recommendations. , When possible, it is preferable to get nutrients through the diet, but a doctor can help determine if a person needs additional supplementation.

Key takeaways

• Omega-3 supplements, vitamin E, and St. John’s wort may be particularly problematic for people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) because they can increase AFib risk or reduce the effectiveness of medications that treat the condition.
• Omega-3s have been linked to an increased risk of AFib and may lead to bleeding problems when taken with blood clot prevention medications. Vitamin E and St. John’s wort can also interact with blood-thinning drugs like warfarin.
• If you have AFib and are considering taking any supplement, talk with a doctor first to ensure it won’t affect your treatment plan or interact with your medications.

People with atrial fibrillation need to avoid taking any supplements without consulting a doctor. Omega-3, St. John’s wort, and vitamin E may be particularly problematic.

These supplements could increase a person’s risk of atrial fibrillation or lessen the effects of medications that treat the condition.

This article examines the supplements and other substances that people with atrial fibrillation need to avoid. It also discusses which supplements might benefit someone with atrial fibrillation (AFib).

Omega-3s

Omega-3s are fatty acids mainly present in seafood.

There are supplements that contain concentrated omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers have found that a prescription medication form of omega-3, icosapent ethyl, benefits certain types of heart disease and lowers the risk of cardiovascular events.

However, a

In addition, high doses of omega-3s could also

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a nutrient that supports the immune system and blood vessels.

Taking vitamin E supplements could

St. John’s wort

St. John’s wort is a herb that some people may use to help with depression, menopause symptoms, and certain skin conditions.

However, this supplement may

Ginseng

Ginseng is an herbal supplement that some people suggest could improve energy and blood sugar management.

At present, there is uncertainty around whether it

Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is an herbal supplement that some people take to help with thinking and to relieve anxiety.

This herbal supplement is another that

Hawthorn

Hawthorn is an herbal supplement that some use for conditions affecting the heart, kidneys, and digestive system.

In addition to the supplements above, there are other substances that people with AFib need to aim to avoid or limit. These can also affect how AFib medication works, and some may also make the condition worse.

These include alcohol, which can affect heart rate and how drugs work, and

Smoking is also a habit to avoid.

Learn more about foods to eat and avoid with AFib.

Some forms of medications have an association with AFib or could affect its progression.

Antidepressants and AFib

Some preliminary research found a potential association between antidepressant use and the likelihood of developing AFib. However, more research is necessary to make any conclusions.

Pain relievers and AFib

Pain-relieving drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can thin the blood.

When someone takes NSAIDs alongside blood-thinning drugs for AFib, there is a risk that their blood could become too thin, leading to an

It is preferable to get nutrients from dietary sources. However, if people are unable to get enough vitamins and minerals in their diet, supplements may help ensure they are getting enough.

Learn more about supplements for arrhythmia.

People with AFib should speak with a doctor as soon as they can if they experience any of the

• sudden weakness
• sudden trouble speaking
• sudden changes to vision or ability to move
• bright red vomit
• bright red blood in the stool
• black, tarry stools
• blood in urine
• severe pain in the abdomen or head
• bleeding that will not stop after you apply pressure to a wound for 10 minutes
• chest pain for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back

These symptoms could suggest a stroke, blood problems, or a heart attack.

It appears unlikely. In fact, a study from Finland suggests that vitamin D supplements could actually help reduce the risk of AFib in older adults.

Other research has also reported an association between vitamin D deficiency and AFib.

Magnesium deficiency may have links to an increased AFib risk, but studies have not shown the benefits of taking magnesium supplements.

Some research suggests that taking intravenous magnesium, which healthcare professionals administer via the veins, alongside standard AFib treatments could help manage people’s heart rates.

However, the study did not look at magnesium supplements that people can take at home.

Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking any supplements with AFib.

Some studies suggest there may be a link between certain vitamin and mineral deficiencies (magnesium, selenium, and vitamin C) and the risk of AFib.

However, studies have not proven supplementing helps with AFib. More studies are necessary before making recommendations.

When possible, it is preferable to get nutrients through the diet, but a doctor can help determine if a person needs additional supplementation.

If someone with AFib is considering taking a supplement, it’s important that they discuss it with a doctor first to ensure it won’t affect their treatment plan.

It is preferable to get nutrients through diet whenever possible, but a healthcare professional can help determine whether supplementing vitamins or minerals may be beneficial.