Atrial Fibrillation & Weight Loss in Adelaide: Your Complete Guide to Managing AF Through Diet & Treatment
- jingxianquah
- Mar 30
- 4 min read
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder that can lead to palpitations, fatigue, and an increased risk of stroke. Obesity is a major risk factor for AF, and research shows that losing weight can significantly improve AF symptoms and reduce the need for medications or procedures.
In this section, we’ll explore:
The science behind obesity and AF
Effective weight-loss strategies, including diets that work
Medications for obesity, including costs and side effects in Australia
How to maintain long-term success
Obesity classification and the Link Between Obesity and AF
BMI Classifications (World Health Organization)
BMI Range (kg/m²) | Classification |
< 18.5 | Underweight |
18.5–24.9 | Healthy Weight |
25–29.9 | Overweight |
30–34.9 | Obesity (Class I) |
35–39.9 | Obesity (Class II) |
≥ 40 | Obesity (Class III / Severe) |
Notes:
Applies to adults (18+).
Why Does Obesity Increase AF Risk?
Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, leads to:
Increased heart strain (the heart has to work harder to pump blood).
Chronic inflammation (which damages heart tissue).
Metabolic changes (such as insulin resistance and high blood pressure).
Key Scientific Findings
A 29% higher AF risk for every 5-unit increase in BMI (Wong et al., 2015).
Losing ≥10% of body weight can reduce AF episodes by 50% (Pathak et al., 2015).
Weight loss also improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and sleep apnea—all of which help AF
Weight Loss Strategies That Work
1. Caloric Deficit: The Foundation of Weight Loss
What it means: You burn more calories than you consume.
How to do it:
Track food intake (apps like MyFitnessPal help).
Reduce portion sizes.
Choose nutrient-dense, low-calorie foods (vegetables, lean proteins).
Avoid: Sugary drinks, processed snacks, and excessive alcohol.
2. The Mediterranean Diet: Best for Heart Health
Why it works: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
What to eat:
Healthy fats: Olive oil, nuts, avocados, fatty fish (salmon).
Lean proteins: Chicken, fish, eggs
Whole grains, Legumes and Nuts and Seed
Avoid: Processed meats, refined sugars, fried foods.
3. Intermittent Fasting (IF): A Structured Eating Window
Popular methods:
16:8 (fast for 16 hrs, eat in 8 hrs).
5:2 (eat normally 5 days, restrict calories 2 days).
Benefits:
Helps regulate blood sugar.
May reduce inflammation.
Caution: Not suitable for everyone (check with your doctor if you have diabetes).
Exercise: Essential for Weight Loss and AF Management
Aim for:
150+ minutes/week of moderate exercise (walking, swimming).
Strength training 2x/week (muscle burns more calories).
Avoid: Excessive high-intensity workouts if you have uncontrolled AF.
Best Exercises for Obese Patients (Beginner-Friendly)
Exercise | Benefits | Adelaide-Friendly Tip |
Walking | Low-impact, burns calories | Use Linear Park trail or beach walks |
Swimming | Supports joints, full-body workout | SA Aquatic Centre has warm-water classes |
Cycling | Gentle on knees, builds endurance | Try Adelaide’s bike paths (Torrens Linear Trail) |
Chair exercises | Safe for limited mobility | Free videos from SA Health available online |
Water aerobics | Reduces joint stress | Available at Marion Aquatic Centre |
Modified Exercises for Osteoarthritis (Knee/Back Pain)
✅ Knee-Friendly Options:
Seated leg lifts (strengthens quads without impact)
Recumbent cycling (supported back position)
Tai Chi (improves balance)
✅ Back-Friendly Options:
Wall push-ups (easier than floor versions)
Swiss ball exercises (supports spine)
Aqua jogging (at Marion or North Adelaide pools)
❌ Avoid:
High-impact running/jumping
Deep squats/lunges (if knee pain)
Heavy overhead lifts (if back issues)
Medications for Obesity: Options in Australia
Medication | How It Works | Administration | Side Effects | Cost (AUD, approx.) |
Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) | GLP-1 agonist (reduces appetite) | Weekly injection | Nausea, diarrhea, rare pancreatitis | 400-500/month (private) |
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) | GLP-1 + GIP agonist (stronger appetite suppression) | Weekly injection | Nausea, vomiting, constipation | 500-600/month (private) |
Liraglutide (Saxenda) | Daily GLP-1 agonist | Daily injection | Nausea, headache | $350/month (private) |
Which One Is Right for You?
Best for significant weight loss: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) or Semaglutide (Wegovy).
Cheaper option: Orlistat (but with more GI side effects).
Not recommended if: You have a history of pancreatitis or thyroid cancer.
Bariatric Surgery for Obesity: When Is It Recommended?
Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery is considered one of the most effective long-term treatments for severe obesity, especially when other methods (diet, exercise, medications) have not worked. It can also significantly improve obesity-related conditions like AF, diabetes, and sleep apnea.
Current Indications for Bariatric Surgery
According to Australian and international guidelines, bariatric surgery may be recommended if you meet one of the following criteria:
BMI ≥ 40 (severe obesity) – with or without other health conditions.
BMI ≥ 35 + obesity-related condition (e.g., AF, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea).
Types of Bariatric Surgery
Procedure | How It Works | Weight Loss Expected | Pros & Cons |
Sleeve Gastrectomy | Stomach is reduced to ~15% of original size | 60–70% excess weight loss | ✔ Less complex than bypass ✘ Irreversible |
Gastric Bypass | Stomach is made smaller + intestine rerouted | 70–80% excess weight loss | ✔ Most effective for diabetes ✘ More complex |
Gastric Banding | Adjustable band placed around stomach | 40–50% excess weight loss | ✔ Reversible ✘ Less effective long-term |
Risks & Considerations
Short-term risks: Infection, bleeding, blood clots (~1–2% risk).
Long-term risks: Vitamin deficiencies (need lifelong supplements), possible gallstones.
Long-Term Success: AF and weight loss in Adelaide
Set realistic goals (0.5–1 kg per week).
Monitor progress (weigh weekly, track food).
Get support (dietitian, weight-loss programs).
Stay active (find exercises you enjoy).
Final Thoughts
If you have AF and obesity, losing just 5–10% of your body weight can make a big difference. Combining diet, exercise, and (if needed) medication gives the best results.
For personalized plans on diet and psychical activity, consultations with dietician and a physiotherapist are recommended
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others who might benefit from learning about AF and weight loss in Adelaide.
Link to further reading: Diet and Atrial Fibrillation: What You Eat Matters
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