Bananas

[Spj57]

I'm a bit confused as to whether I should be eating these or avoiding them! I've read that on the one hand they are helpful as low potassium can trigger AFib but now recently also read than too much potassium can do the same and to restrict eating them. I am struggling to find triggers for my paroxysmal AFib so any correct info would be gratefully received 😊

[Rainfern]

I too have read conflicting reports, so have settled for bananas in moderation. I have half a banana with muesli or porridge for breakfast several times a week. The spare halves can be made into oaty snacks with chopped 85% plain chocolate which store for a few days if the family don't find them first.

[JudiHalf]

I have a banana every day with cereal for breakfast and it does not give me afib.

I think we are all different with our triggers and I know the worst one for me is overdoing things physically.

If you avoided everything mentioned that triggers afib you probably wouldn’t be able to eat or drink anything!

[BobD Volunteer]

Everything in moderation. As my EP told me years ago. "Looking for triggers is the way to madness". You have AF you will get AF.

[Czech_Mate in reply to BobD]

And madness can lead to Afib. I'm a shining example of that.😏

[Autumn_Leaves in reply to BobD]

So SO true!

[mav7]

Best to get a blood test to determine your level of potassium, Vitamin D, thyroid and kidney function, and other important areas. Urine test is also good.

[Autumn_Leaves]

It’s unlikely that you would end up with excess potassium in your bloodstream just from eating a whole banana in one day. Your serum potassium is one of several electrolytes which your body will regulate within a very narrowly defined range and keep in balance. If you are otherwise generally healthy, meaning that you have good kidney function, one piece of fruit is hardly going to upset your electrolytes and throw your potassium levels out of whack. A whole banana is fine. Half a banana is fine. Whatever you do, DO NOT take potassium supplements unless they have been prescribed for you. A banana isn’t the same thing!

Potassium is found in many fruits and vegetables, and is generally beneficial in that it can reduce serum sodium levels which can elevate your BP. So, adding potassium foods to your diet can be one tool in the toolbox to keep your BP in a good place.

[Spj57]

Thank you for all your replies 🙂

[Clarrie]

My cardiologist told me to eat a banana ever day.

[secondtry]

Been a foodie for a long time and gradually reached the conclusion (having been down many blind alleys) as quoted by my mother 60+ years ago 'eat a little of everything and a bit of what you fancy does you good'.

[Dodie117]

yes, get a blood test. Mine usually on the high side (can be dangerous) but not related to AF. so I eat half banana per day.