3. Trans Fats: The Stealthy Health Thief
Trans fats, found in various processed foods, pose a threat to heart health, making them an essential point of discussion in the context of atrial fibrillation. They increase bad cholesterol (LDL), decrease good cholesterol (HDL), and contribute to inflammation, all of which can heighten the risk of heart rhythm disorders, including AFib.
Processed foods such as baked goods, snacks, fried food, and margarine are usual suspects when it comes to trans fats. They sneak into our diet, making us susceptible to heart disease without us even realizing it. That’s why awareness is the first step in managing trans fat intake.
Elevated LDL cholesterol levels can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. This restricted blood flow can alter the heart’s structure and rhythm, leading to AFib.
Besides increasing bad cholesterol, trans fats also reduce good cholesterol levels. HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Lower HDL levels mean fewer “clean-up crews” for LDL, facilitating its buildup and consequent heart risks.
Trans fats also contribute to inflammation, a response by the body’s immune system. Chronic inflammation can damage the heart tissue over time, altering its normal rhythm and leading to atrium fibrillation. The takeaway is clear: Trans fats are no friends to our hearts, and reducing their intake can significantly lower AFib risk. (3)
