The Mediterranean Diet for AFib 

Why it works: 

• Reduces inflammation 
• Lowers blood pressure 
• Supports heart health 
• May reduce AFib episodes 

What to Eat Daily 

Plenty of: 

• Vegetables (5+ servings) 
• Fruits (2-3 servings) 
• Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa, oats) 
• Legumes (beans, lentils) 
• Nuts and seeds (small handful) 
• Olive oil (primary fat) 
• Fatty fish (salmon, sardines) 2-3x/week 

Moderate amounts: 

• Poultry 
• Eggs 
• Low-fat dairy 

Rarely: 

• Red meat 
• Processed foods 
• Sweets 

Foods That Trigger AFib 

Limit or avoid: 

Alcohol: Single biggest trigger 

• Even moderate drinking increases episodes 
• "Holiday heart syndrome" - AFib after drinking 
• Best: Eliminate completely 
• Maximum: 1 drink occasionally (ask your doctor) 

Caffeine: Individual response varies 

• Some people tolerate coffee fine 
• Others have episodes with any caffeine 
• Test: Avoid 2 weeks, then reintroduce and monitor 
• Maximum: 1-2 cups if tolerated 

High sodium: Raises blood pressure, worsens AFib 

• Limit to <2,000mg daily 
• Read labels - hidden in processed foods 
• Don't add salt at table 

Large meals: Can trigger episodes 

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals 
• Don't go to bed on full stomach 

Hydration Matters 

• Drink 6-8 glasses water daily 
• Dehydration can trigger AFib 
• Avoid excessive fluids (worsens heart failure if present) 

Supplements to Discuss 

May help (ask doctor first): 

• Magnesium (if deficient) 
• Omega-3 fish oil 
• CoQ10 (especially if on statins) 

Avoid: 

• Excessive calcium 
• Ephedra or stimulants 
• Weight loss supplements 

Sample Day 

Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries and walnuts 
Lunch: Large salad with grilled chicken, olive oil dressing 
Snack: Apple with almond butter 
Dinner: Baked salmon, roasted vegetables, quinoa 
Dessert (optional): Small piece dark chocolate