The supplement adventure continues

Hello everyone, I had my 3-month follow up appt on Tuesday with my new-ish cardiologist. This was only our 2nd appt and I was curious to see how she'd respond to my research and questions about the supplements I've been taking and that I wrote about in separate posts here. I was thrilled that she was excited about the positive effects I've been experiencing, even saying, "This sounds like a good approach for you!" She had told me in our first appt that she treats each patient differently.

At one point, she even said that she believes nutrition can heal the body. I about fell on the floor. She even recommended a nutrition book she likes.

We talked through various recommended tests that are good to have before adding more supplements. This was all such a welcome change from my previous appt's with the other cardio guys, so I was happy just to be in NSR, to feel good, to feel supported and enjoy my interactions with her. Every other cardio appt had been so anxiety-provoking, so I was glad I decided to keep looking to find a good fit.

Then yesterday I taught one of my classes and I'm seeing that I need to make some adjustments and get my large group of students to step it up because there are aspects of the dynamic that are just stressful enough to trigger AF, which happened yesterday. Several hours of AF. Episodes are never fun, but at least now they aren't as intense or depressing, just really annoying, but fortunately I could eventually sleep and woke in NSR.

I think that Flecainide is now making episodes longer...

Well, today I decided to call the office of Dr. Drew Sinatra. He's a naturopath and acupuncturist, and the son of Dr. Stephen Sinatra, the cardio who wrote the Metabolic Cardiology book I shared about in another post. I heard about the son from the lab that does the EXA test (for magnesium) and he's not far away, so I thought why just call and see if he can help?

Instead of me trying to figure out the best cocktail of supplements and guiding my cardio, I wanted to see if Dr. Sinatra could possibly guide me in this.

He happened to be free so talked to me for a good 15 minutes or so. I was stunned! Call a doc office and be able to just talk to the person with no appt or charge???!!

Turns out he's treated 15-20 AF patients in the past 10 years, all of whom dropped to rare, short episodes. He's learned a lot from his dad along the way, in addition to his training and experience. Then it turned out that I can see him next week, so I scheduled an appt.

His approach is to explore the root causes of AF, which I guess it is possible sometimes to pinpoint. He'll also teach me about the dosage of the different supplements.

We'll see what unfolds!

[PirateJeff]

Thanks for continuing to post your excellent research. I’ve enjoyed and get helpful ideas on nutrition, magnesium, etc.

Even made more sense to me why I feel so much better after epsom salt baths...magnesium absorption most likely.

I had an excellent report today from my cardiologist and feel grateful. All my recent stress testing, heart monitoring show great results. I’ve been cleared to continue training for an upcoming half marathon. I wish you continued good health and happiness. Best regards

[Hidden in reply to PirateJeff]

Glad to hear it’s helpful for you, PirateJeff. Happy to hear your good news, too.

The nutrition book my cardio recommended (and commented on the awful name!) is “How Not to Die.”

Have you discovered the magnesium oil that you can spray on? That would be really helpful post-run.

[PirateJeff in reply to Hidden]

Thanks again Nella,

Yes, i must try the magnesium oil spray after my runs. Planning to get the book also. I pretty much have been striving to eat a plant based diet the last several years...after my first afib problems developed. Have a wonderful weekend.

[Hidden]

Oops! I meant why NOT just call...(the English teacher in me ...🤓)

[Maura5]

Thanks Nella, very interesting, keep us posted please? 👍

[Hidden in reply to Maura5]

Yes, I will, Maura! I'm curious to see how the appt goes.

[Hilly22]

Thank you Nella, this is very helpful to me. I have an unopened jar of magnesium taurate tablets which I'm nervous to take ... I had a real scare when a recent blood test showed my potassium levels to be worryingly high and don't want to risk the same thing happening with magnesium. Strange about the potassium as I take a PPI, so would expect it to be low, not high. After reading your post I'm going to request an EXA test (or whatever they call it here) and if it's low will consider using the magnesium oil if the tablets don't work.

I'm so like you, an English language enthusiast! I'm forever editing my posts, even for a misplaced comma 😂. It's my mother's fault, always pulling us up she was!

Lovely talking to you, as always 🤗 x

[Hidden]

Hi Hilly, yes, this is why I decided at this point to look into the testing of the various levels rather than blindly experimenting. My understanding is that these micronutrients work synergistically, so it makes sense to figure out what the best balance will be.

Dr. Sinatra mentioned that he's seen different, unexpected causes of AF, like mercury poisoning.

It's quite an interesting adventure!

After the great frustrations of dealing with the stubborn, dismissive mindset of the other docs, I am loving the experience of finding some kind, gentle, supportive docs. I'm still stunned that he picked up the phone and talked to me, a complete stranger! He reminds me in spirit of Dr. Gupta.

Of course, the true test will be seeing what I learn, what he suggests I take, and if it works!

But for now, I greatly appreciate the kindness and support! 😊

Lovely talking to you, too!