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Chocolate may trigger afib
I had two events of afib during 2009. Both times, I had eaten chocolate (like 6 oreo cookies one time, and a chocolate ice cream cone the 2nd time.) Can the chocolate really have triggered the two afib attacks? what do you think? Thanks for your advice.
Chocolate in large amounts may trigger attacks. Chocolate contains a little caffeine, but also contains the structurally related theobromine, a milder cardiac stimulant. Requires large amounts, and few cookies or ice cream should not casue a-fib...but it is possible.
More likely are the following:
Extreme fatigue, emotional stress, severe infections, severe pain, and illegal drug use can trigger A-Fib. Low or high blood and tissue concentrations of minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium can trigger A-Fib. Thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism), lung disease, reactive hypoglycemia, viral infections, and smoking can trigger A-Fib. Smoking cigarettes raises the risk of developing A-Fib even if one stops smoking, possibly because past smoking leaves behind permanent fibrotic damage to the atrium which makes later A-Fib more likely.
More likely are the following:
Extreme fatigue, emotional stress, severe infections, severe pain, and illegal drug use can trigger A-Fib. Low or high blood and tissue concentrations of minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium can trigger A-Fib. Thyroid problems (hyperthyroidism), lung disease, reactive hypoglycemia, viral infections, and smoking can trigger A-Fib. Smoking cigarettes raises the risk of developing A-Fib even if one stops smoking, possibly because past smoking leaves behind permanent fibrotic damage to the atrium which makes later A-Fib more likely.
Yes it can. In cocoa theres a drug called theobromine and this widens blood vessels and is a heart stimulant. You have to be careful of a-fib because it's the major cause of strokes. Perhaps you are sensitive to this compound.
I get some arrhythmias (mostly palpitations - heavy beats and some increased ectopics) if I eat too much chocolate. I can get away with a Dove Promise (not a whole Dove candy bar) or 2 Oreos but that's my limit. Shoot! I remember when I used to eat a dozen Oreos as a kid.
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