By Dr Susan Plank
•
February 12, 2025
Decoding Arrhythmias, AFib, and PVCs Introduction Have you ever felt your heart flutter unexpectedly, skip a beat, or race for no reason? Maybe you’ve had a moment of dizziness or felt your chest pounding, and you weren’t sure why. These sensations can be unsettling—like your heart is trying to send you a message. But what is it saying? For many, these irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias, are brushed off as harmless. But in some cases, they can be a warning sign of deeper metabolic or cardiovascular issues—from inflammation and insulin resistance to electrolyte imbalances and chronic stress. The good news? Your body gives you clues, and you can take action before bigger problems arise. In this blog, we’ll break down: The different types of arrhythmias and how to tell them apart How inflammation and metabolic health play a role in heart rhythm disruptions The ideal body composition for heart and metabolic health Safe and effective exercise routines (because not all workouts are heart-friendly) The best supplements to support heart function and reduce arrhythmia risk How personalized testing, like CardioMetabolIQ, can pinpoint your specific risk factors Your heart’s rhythm is a reflection of your overall health. Let’s dive in and decode what it’s trying to tell you. Understanding Arrhythmias – What’s Happening in Your Heart? What Is an Arrhythmia? An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat—meaning your heart may beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or in an erratic, unpredictable pattern. How Do Arrhythmias Happen? Your heart relies on a finely tuned electrical system to keep it beating in a steady rhythm. This system sends signals that tell your heart’s chambers when to contract and pump blood. But sometimes, these signals misfire, causing your heart to beat out of sync. Lifestyle factors making your arrhythmia worse Inflammation – Chronic inflammation damages blood vessels and heart tissue, interfering with normal rhythm. Electrolyte imbalances – Low levels of magnesium, potassium, and sodium make it harder for your heart’s cells to communicate, leading to misfires. Insulin resistance & metabolic dysfunction – High blood sugar and insulin fluctuations stress the heart and increase the risk of arrhythmias. Stress & high cortisol – Chronic stress overstimulates the nervous system, triggering heart palpitations and irregular rhythms. Poor circulation & oxygen supply – Conditions like high blood pressure, clogged arteries, and heart failure reduce blood flow, making arrhythmias more likely. Stimulants & medications – Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and even some decongestants can provoke abnormal heartbeats. While some arrhythmias are harmless, others can lead to serious complications like blood clots, stroke, or heart failure. The key is identifying what’s causing yours—so you can take the right steps to correct it. How to Tell the Difference Between Arrhythmias Not all arrhythmias feel the same, and identifying which type you have is key to understanding your heart health. Some are harmless and fleeting, while others could signal a serious underlying issue. The best way to know? Tracking and testing. Common Types of Arrhythmias and Their Symptoms Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs) – Feels like a skipped beat or extra beat, often harmless but can be triggered by stress, caffeine, or electrolyte imbalances. Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) – Rapid, irregular heartbeat that may cause palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Increases the risk of stroke and blood clots. Bradycardia – Slow heartbeat (under 60 beats per minute), can cause fatigue, dizziness, or fainting, often linked to metabolic imbalances. Tachycardia – Fast heartbeat (over 100 beats per minute) at rest, can lead to lightheadedness, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. How to Track and Monitor Your Heart Rhythm The good news? Technology makes it easier than ever to catch arrhythmias in real time. Here’s how: KardiaMobile – A pocket-sized EKG monitor that connects to your smartphone, giving you on-the-spot arrhythmia detection. It can identify AFib, PVCs, bradycardia, and tachycardia and provides reports to share with your doctor. Apple Watch (Series 4 and newer) – Features a built-in EKG function that alerts you if it detects an irregular rhythm. It also tracks heart rate trends over time. Medical EKG (Electrocardiogram) – A standard test done by your doctor that measures electrical activity and identifies the type and severity of arrhythmias. Holter Monitor – A portable device worn for 24-48 hours (or longer) to capture irregular rhythms that come and go. Why Tracking Matters Helps distinguish occasional vs. chronic arrhythmias Identifies potential triggers (e.g., caffeine, stress, dehydration) Provides data for your doctor to determine next steps Helps track improvements when making lifestyle changes If you’ve been experiencing palpitations, skipped beats, dizziness, or fatigue, don’t ignore them. Start tracking to pinpoint what’s going on and take proactive steps toward protecting your heart. Root Causes of Arrhythmias & Inflammation Inflammation & Heart Rhythm Disruptions Inflammation is your body's natural response to injury or illness, but when it becomes chronic, it turns into a silent saboteur—damaging tissues, disrupting normal function, and even throwing your heart's rhythm off track. Many arrhythmias stem from inflammation interfering with the heart’s electrical system, making it harder for signals to flow smoothly and keep your heartbeat steady. How Inflammation Affects Your Heart’s Rhythm Damaged Heart Tissue – Chronic inflammation weakens the heart muscle, making it more vulnerable to erratic beats. Increased Oxidative Stress – Free radicals damage heart cells, increasing arrhythmia risk. Blood Sugar Swings – Insulin resistance leads to spikes and crashes that can overstimulate the heart. Cortisol Overload – Chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can trigger palpitations and arrhythmias. What Fuels Inflammation? If you’re struggling with arrhythmias, identifying and reducing hidden sources of inflammation is crucial. Here are the biggest culprits: · High Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance – Elevated glucose levels lead to oxidative stress and stiffened blood vessels, disrupting normal circulation and increasing arrhythmia risk. · Nutrient Deficiencies – Low levels of magnesium, potassium, and omega-3s make the heart more prone to misfiring electrical signals. · Gut Health Imbalances – An unhealthy microbiome triggers systemic inflammation, impacting heart health and nervous system function. · Chronic Stress & High Cortisol – Prolonged stress floods the body with cortisol, which can throw off electrolytes, spike blood pressure, and increase arrhythmic episodes. · Environmental Toxins – Processed foods, alcohol, heavy metals, and excessive sugar drive inflammation, negatively impacting heart tissue and increasing oxidative stress. How to Reduce Inflammation & Support a Healthy Heart Rhythm · Balance Blood Sugar – Reduce processed carbs, refined sugar, and focus on high-fiber, whole foods. · Replenish Key Nutrients – Ensure you get enough magnesium, potassium, omega-3s, and CoQ10 to regulate heart function. · Heal Your Gut – Support microbiome health with probiotics, prebiotic-rich foods, and gut-friendly nutrients like L-glutamine. · Manage Stress – Incorporate deep breathing, meditation, and better sleep habits to keep cortisol in check. · Detox Smartly – Limit alcohol, avoid processed foods, and opt for organic, whole foods whenever possible. Chronic inflammation won’t go away on its own—but taking targeted steps can lower your risk of arrhythmias and strengthen your heart health. If you’re experiencing heart rhythm issues, inflammation could be the missing link. Hidden Causes of Arrhythmias Arrhythmias don’t just happen out of nowhere—there are often underlying imbalances driving those irregular heartbeats. Here are some surprising triggers that can throw your heart’s rhythm off track: · Electrolyte Imbalances – Low levels of magnesium and potassium disrupt the heart’s electrical system, making arrhythmias more frequent and severe. · High Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance – Frequent blood sugar spikes increase heart rate, fuel inflammation, and stiffen blood vessels, setting the stage for irregular beats. · Chronic Stress & Poor Sleep – Elevated cortisol from ongoing stress or poor sleep can overstimulate the nervous system and trigger heart palpitations and arrhythmias. · Gut Microbiome Imbalances – Certain gut bacteria influence heart rate variability, and an unhealthy gut can contribute to systemic inflammation that disrupts heart function. · Toxic Overload – Plastics, pesticides, heavy metals, and air pollutants damage blood vessels, increase oxidative stress, and interfere with heart cell function. Addressing these hidden causes is key to restoring a steady, healthy heartbeat and preventing long-term cardiovascular risks. Ideal Body Composition for Heart & Metabolic Health Maintaining a healthy body composition isn’t just about appearance—it plays a direct role in heart function, metabolic health, and arrhythmia risk. Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, can increase inflammation, strain the heart, and contribute to irregular heart rhythms. Visceral Fat vs. Subcutaneous Fat: Why It Matters · Subcutaneous fat (the fat just under the skin) is relatively harmless. · Visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs) is far more dangerous—it releases inflammatory chemicals that disrupt heart function, increase blood pressure, and worsen insulin resistance. · Higher visceral fat levels are linked to a greater risk of arrhythmias, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. Ideal Body Composition for Heart Health While weight alone doesn’t determine heart health, maintaining a healthy body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and arrhythmias. · Women: o 20–28% body fat o Waist-to-hip ratio below 0.85 (waist size divided by hip size) · Men: o 12–20% body fat o Waist-to-hip ratio below 0.9 Muscle Mass: A Powerful Protector Building and maintaining lean muscle mass is one of the best things you can do for heart and metabolic health. More muscle leads to better insulin sensitivity, improved circulation, and a stronger heart. In fact, muscle acts as a metabolic “sink,” helping regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation, both of which lower arrhythmia risk. Focusing on fat loss rather than just weight loss, along with strength training to build muscle, can optimize heart function and keep your heartbeat steady. CardioMetabolIQ Testing: What’s Driving Your Arrhythmia? Not all arrhythmias are the same—and guessing won’t get you answers. Why settle for generic advice when you can pinpoint the exact factors affecting your heart? Personalized testing takes the mystery out of your symptoms and reveals the root cause of irregular heart rhythms. What This Test Uncovers That Others Don’t · Inflammation Markers – Are your blood vessels silently inflamed, setting the stage for heart issues? · Electrolyte & Mineral Status – Are low magnesium or potassium levels triggering irregular beats? · Insulin Resistance & Metabolic Health – Is high blood sugar fueling inflammation and disrupting your heart’s rhythm? · Cholesterol & Plaque Risk – Are your arteries quietly clogging, increasing your risk of serious heart conditions? If you’re tired of vague answers or getting dismissed with “just monitor it,” this test provides clear, actionable insights—so you can take control and prevent bigger problems down the road. The question isn’t if you should know these numbers, it’s why you haven’t checked yet. Exercising with an Arrhythmia: What’s Safe & What’s Not? Should you work out if you have an arrhythmia? Absolutely—but not all exercise is created equal. The key is finding the right balance to support your heart without overstressing it. What to Watch Out For · Yes – Smart, structured movement can stabilize blood sugar, lower stress, and improve circulation. · No – Overdoing cardio can spike cortisol and inflammation, making arrhythmias worse. · Better – Strength training builds muscle, which protects against metabolic and heart-related issues. The Ideal Workout Plan for Heart & Metabolic Health · Cardio (Low-to-Moderate Intensity): 20–30 minutes, 4–5 times per week (walking, cycling, swimming) · Strength Training: 2–3 times per week (bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, weightlifting) · Flexibility & Recovery: Daily stretching, yoga, or foam rolling to reduce stress and support mobility Finding the right balance of activity can help regulate your heart’s rhythm, lower inflammation, and improve long-term cardiovascular health. How to Reduce Inflammation & Support a Healthy Heart Rhythm · Balance Blood Sugar – Reduce processed carbs, refined sugar, and focus on high-fiber, whole foods. · Replenish Key Nutrients – Ensure you get enough magnesium, potassium, omega-3s, and CoQ10 to regulate heart function. · Heal Your Gut – Support microbiome health with probiotics, prebiotic-rich foods, and gut-friendly nutrients like L-glutamine. · Manage Stress – Incorporate deep breathing, meditation, and better sleep habits to keep cortisol in check. · Detox Smartly – Limit alcohol, avoid processed foods, and opt for organic, whole foods whenever possible. Chronic inflammation won’t go away on its own—but taking targeted steps can lower your risk of arrhythmias and strengthen your heart health. If you’re experiencing heart rhythm issues, inflammation could be the missing link. Hidden Causes of Arrhythmias Arrhythmias don’t just happen out of nowhere—there are often underlying imbalances driving those irregular heartbeats. Here are some surprising triggers that can throw your heart’s rhythm off track: · Electrolyte Imbalances – Low levels of magnesium and potassium disrupt the heart’s electrical system, making arrhythmias more frequent and severe. · High Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance – Frequent blood sugar spikes increase heart rate, fuel inflammation, and stiffen blood vessels, setting the stage for irregular beats. · Chronic Stress & Poor Sleep – Elevated cortisol from ongoing stress or poor sleep can overstimulate the nervous system and trigger heart palpitations and arrhythmias. · Gut Microbiome Imbalances – Certain gut bacteria influence heart rate variability, and an unhealthy gut can contribute to systemic inflammation that disrupts heart function. · Toxic Overload – Plastics, pesticides, heavy metals, and air pollutants damage blood vessels, increase oxidative stress, and interfere with heart cell function. Addressing these hidden causes is key to restoring a steady, healthy heartbeat and preventing long-term cardiovascular risks. Ideal Body Composition for Heart & Metabolic Health Maintaining a healthy body composition isn’t just about appearance—it plays a direct role in heart function, metabolic health, and arrhythmia risk. Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, can increase inflammation, strain the heart, and contribute to irregular heart rhythms. Visceral Fat vs. Subcutaneous Fat: Why It Matters · Subcutaneous fat (the fat just under the skin) is relatively harmless. · Visceral fat (fat stored around internal organs) is far more dangerous—it releases inflammatory chemicals that disrupt heart function, increase blood pressure, and worsen insulin resistance. · Higher visceral fat levels are linked to a greater risk of arrhythmias, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. Ideal Body Composition for Heart Health While weight alone doesn’t determine heart health, maintaining a healthy body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and arrhythmias. · Women: o 20–28% body fat o Waist-to-hip ratio below 0.85 (waist size divided by hip size) · Men: o 12–20% body fat o Waist-to-hip ratio below 0.9 Muscle Mass: A Powerful Protector Building and maintaining lean muscle mass is one of the best things you can do for heart and metabolic health. More muscle leads to better insulin sensitivity, improved circulation, and a stronger heart. In fact, muscle acts as a metabolic “sink,” helping regulate blood sugar and reduce inflammation, both of which lower arrhythmia risk. Focusing on fat loss rather than just weight loss, along with strength training to build muscle, can optimize heart function and keep your heartbeat steady. CardioMetabolIQ Testing: What’s Driving Your Arrhythmia? Not all arrhythmias are the same—and guessing won’t get you answers. Why settle for generic advice when you can pinpoint the exact factors affecting your heart? Personalized testing takes the mystery out of your symptoms and reveals the root cause of irregular heart rhythms. What This Test Uncovers That Others Don’t · Inflammation Markers – Are your blood vessels silently inflamed, setting the stage for heart issues? · Electrolyte & Mineral Status – Are low magnesium or potassium levels triggering irregular beats? · Insulin Resistance & Metabolic Health – Is high blood sugar fueling inflammation and disrupting your heart’s rhythm? · Cholesterol & Plaque Risk – Are your arteries quietly clogging, increasing your risk of serious heart conditions? If you’re tired of vague answers or getting dismissed with “just monitor it,” this test provides clear, actionable insights—so you can take control and prevent bigger problems down the road. The question isn’t if you should know these numbers, it’s why you haven’t checked yet. Exercising with an Arrhythmia: What’s Safe & What’s Not? Should you work out if you have an arrhythmia? Absolutely—but not all exercise is created equal. The key is finding the right balance to support your heart without overstressing it. What to Watch Out For · Yes – Smart, structured movement can stabilize blood sugar, lower stress, and improve circulation. · No – Overdoing cardio can spike cortisol and inflammation, making arrhythmias worse. · Better – Strength training builds muscle, which protects against metabolic and heart-related issues. The Ideal Workout Plan for Heart & Metabolic Health · Cardio (Low-to-Moderate Intensity): 20–30 minutes, 4–5 times per week (walking, cycling, swimming) · Strength Training: 2–3 times per week (bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, weightlifting) · Flexibility & Recovery: Daily stretching, yoga, or foam rolling to reduce stress and support mobility Finding the right balance of activity can help regulate your heart’s rhythm, lower inflammation, and improve long-term cardiovascular health. 🩺 Supplements for a Steady Heart & Strong Metabolism When it comes to arrhythmias, nutrient deficiencies can be a hidden culprit. The right supplements can support heart rhythm, reduce inflammation, and improve metabolic function. Here’s what to focus on: 💊 Essential Supplements for Heart Rhythm & Function 🔹 Magnesium Glycinate (400–600 mg/day) – The #1 mineral for heart health. Helps muscles (including your heart) relax and prevents palpitations. Most people are deficient! 🔹 Potassium (4700 mg/day from food or supplements) – Works with sodium to keep your heart’s electrical signals balanced. Low potassium = higher risk of rhythm issues. Best from whole foods (avocados, leafy greens, beans) or supplements if needed. 🔹 CoQ10 (100–300 mg/day) – Fuels the heart’s energy production and protects against oxidative stress. Especially crucial if you’re on a statin! 🔹 Omega-3s (1000–2000 mg EPA/DHA daily) – Anti-inflammatory powerhouse. Stabilizes heart rhythms, reduces triglycerides, and supports circulation. 🔹 Curcumin (500–1000 mg/day) – Reduces oxidative stress and improves blood vessel flexibility. Helps lower inflammation that can trigger arrhythmias. 🔹 Citrus Bergamot (500–1000 mg/day) – Supports cholesterol balance and blood sugar control, both of which impact heart function. ⏳ How Long Until You Feel Results? ✔ Electrolytes (Magnesium, Potassium): Immediate effects—can help with heart palpitations within days. ✔ Omega-3s & CoQ10: Expect 4–8 weeks before noticeable improvements in energy, circulation, and rhythm stability. ✔ Curcumin & Bergamot: These take 2–3 months to fully impact inflammation and cholesterol levels. 💡 The key? Consistency. Supplements work best alongside personalized testing to identify your specific deficiencies and metabolic risks. 💡 Conclusion: Don’t Guess—Test & Take Action! Your heart is speaking—are you listening? Arrhythmias aren’t just random flutters or skipped beats. They’re often a warning sign of underlying issues like inflammation, stress, nutrient deficiencies, or metabolic imbalances. Ignoring them won’t make them go away—but taking action can. The good news? You don’t have to live in fear of your heartbeat. The right combination of lifestyle changes, targeted exercise, and key supplements can restore rhythm naturally and support your heart long-term. Ready to Take Control? If you’re experiencing irregular heartbeats, don’t just wait and wonder—find out why. CardioMetabolIQ testing can pinpoint the root cause and give you a personalized plan to restore heart health. Get tested & get answers. Schedule a consultation today at NorwinWellness.com .