Swimsuit and shorts weather is a less-distant dream now that March has arrived and the days are brighter, longer and slightly warmer. And with skin-revealing season on the horizon, many adults are looking at diet trends to jump start weight loss; several of them focus on a very low-carbohydrate food plan. But recent research suggests that cutting carbs as the ketogenic, paleo and Atkins diets prescribe could affect heart arrhythmia; an irregular, rapid heart rate.
According to a report in Science Daily, a large Chinese study presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session found that participants who followed a low carb diet, with less than 44.8 percent of calories comprised of carbohydrates, were 18 percent more likely to develop AFib(atrial fibrillation) than those with a moderate carbohydrate intake. People with AFib are 5 times more likely to have a stroke than people without the condition; it can also lead to heart failure.
Researchers attribute the increased risk for AFib among adults on a low carb diet to a restriction in whole grains, fruits and vegetables; all sources of carbohydrates. These foods are known to reduce inflammation which may be linked with AFib. Most of the diets that restrict carbs focus on proteins and fats as the primary caloric source which may lead to oxidative stress, also associated with AFib and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Before making any dramatic change in diet or activity level, it’s important to talk with your doctor about the benefits and potential for risks. March is also National Nutrition Month and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics warns older adults that extreme diets for drastic weight loss that eliminate entire food groups can lead to serious nutrient gaps and a loss of lean body mass, which seniors want to preserve in older age. Learn more at EatRight.org about dietary guidelines for a healthy lifestyle.
Add Your Voice
0 Comments
Join the Discussion