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Copyright ©2011 by Jethro Iggulden

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information contained.

First Edition (Independent Press, 2010)

Second Edition (Independent Press, 2011)
 Contents at a glance
Part 1: Heart & Palpitations
How does the heart work? … 6
What are palpitations? ... 7
What symptoms are experienced? ... 7
What causes arrhythmias? ... 8
How do they diagnose the cause? ... 8

Part 2: Preventing Arrhythmias through Dietary Changes

1) Water ... 9
2) Avoid food additives ... 9
3) Consider a Macrobiotic diet ... 11
4) Avoid smoking and smokers ... 11
5) Avoid alcohol ... 11
6) Cut down/out the stimulants ... 12
7) Energy drinks and sugary drinks ... 13
8) Phenylalanine and Aspartame ... 13
9) Bye Dairy, Hello Alternatives ... 14
10) Minimize Yeast Intake ... 14
11) Goodbye Gluten ... 14
 12) Potassium ... 15
13) Apple Cider Vinegar ... 16
14) Organic Black Strap Molasses ... 16
15) Oregano ... 16

Part 3: Preventing Arrhythmias through Vitamins & Supplementation

16) Calcium ... 17

17) Aloe Vera ... 17
18) Chromium ... 18
19) Magnesium ... 18
20) Multi –Vitamins ... 18
21) Selenium ... 19
22) Hawthorn Berry Extracts ... 19
23) Herbs ... 19
24) Taurine ... 20
25) L-Arginine ... 20
26) Creatine ... 20
27) Pau d’Arco ... 21
28) Slippery Elm ... 21
29) Flax Oil ... 21

Part 4: Preventing Arrhythmias through Lifestyle Choices

 30) Exercise regularly ... 22
31) More sleep ... 22
32) Change your thoughts ... 23
33) Yoga ... 23
34) Meditation ... 23
35) Diaphragmatic Breathing ... 24
36) Techniques to stop Arrhythmias ... 24
Appendix A: Further description of Arrhythmias
 36 Ways of Stopping Palptations.
The Natural way to a healthier heart and life.
By Jethro Iggulden
 Your heart averages between 60-100 beats every minute. In
this time it effortlessly manages to pump five to ten litres of blood around
your body. If this is not impressive enough, it keeps this up every single
minute until death. Whilst this of course varies (dependent on age, activity
and fitness levels), the average 85 year old has experienced this miraculous
feat over four billions times! So with such a high success rate, it is of no
surprise that when any abnormalities occur, it causes many individuals to
pay closer attention. A heartbeat that feels as if it is racing, fluttering,
thumping or slowing down is called a heart palpitation.
Almost everyone experiences a form of palpitations throughout their
life, whether they are consciously aware of it at the time or not. For most
people, it is the result of something transparent (i.e. caffeine, alcohol, drugs,
stress) but for some, it remains a mystery unless they find their key to the
proverbial door. Doctors and Cardiologists typically provide three
alternatives for patients suffering with palpitations: self-monitoring (do
nothing, reduce stress and watch it yourself), medication (beta-blockers,
calcium antagonists) or an operation (ablation).
For most people, it can be seen as a cause and effect problem. Many of
the suggestions offered here have sprung from the successes of former
tachycardia sufferers. This e-book is simply a compilation of what has
worked for others, including myself, as well as conventional and alternative
medical suggestions. Some are commonsensical solutions that have been
known to be greatly beneficial in eradicating arrhythmias. For example, one
long time sufferer of SVT simply found by increasing her water intake so that
she was continually hydrated and eating more of particular vegetables
caused her particular type of SVT episodes to cease.
It is strongly recommended that you explore the following options as
many arrhythmia sufferers (both tachycardia and even for some methods,
bradycardia) have found positive results from applying these suggestions.
These alternatives are not intended to negate your doctor’s advice, but to
be explored mutually as every form of medicine has a place. It should also
be remembered that your doctor may be highly accomplished in their area
of expertise, but there are various other avenues that you should also
address. This is simply a compilation of what countless palpitations sufferers
have found that works for them and others. As usual, for these types of
recommendations, you should always consult your doctor, pharmacist or
cardiologist.
We all share many common health traits, but we all are still individuals.
The only study that can conclude what is best for your health is your own. It
is suggested that you try and discipline yourself for at least four to six weeks
for some of these improvements to be noticed. These suggestions have
helped thousands of sufferers- so read this with an open mind and a little
faith. Please let me know how you go and what suggestions worked for you.
Good luck and good health,
Jethro Iggulden
 How does the heart work?
Your heart is a muscle pump which pushes blood through your arteries
to all of your body’s organs. Blood picks up oxygen in the lungs. The blood
then goes through your arteries, delivering the oxygen and energy to your
body to work normally. Once your blood gives the oxygen to your body, it
takes away the carbon dioxide and waste products through your veins.
These are then eliminated from your veins in the lungs, kidney and liver. The
veins then return the blood to your heart.
If the blood is returning from the head region, it comes back though a
big vein called the superior (think of higher) vena cava. If the blood returns
from the lower body region, it comes back through a big vein called the
inferior (think of lower) vena cava. Both are then collected in the heart in
the right atrium chamber. Your right atrium is separated from your right
ventricle (in the medical world “pump” means ventricle) by the tricuspid
valve.
So the heart is essentially a double pump, made up of four chambers.
The upper right chamber (right atrium) takes in deoxygenated blood, which
is then squeezed into the lower right chamber (right ventricle) and pumped
to the lungs. Oxygenated blood from the lungs travels to the left upper
chamber (left atrium) and, from there, enters the lower left chamber (left
ventricle) and is pumped around the body. The contractions of the chambers
make the sound you hear when your heart beats.
 The right side of your heart collects “used-up” blood (the blood which
has just had its oxygen removed from around the body) and passes it to your
lungs to pick up oxygen to enrich your blood. Your left side collects this now
oxygen-rich blood in your left atrium. Blood collects in the right atrium and
left atrium at the exact same time.
The heart has four valves: the aortic, mitral, pulmonary and tricuspid.
These valves operate like security guards controlling the flow of blood in and
out of your heart. The mitral valve separates the left atrium from the left
ventricle. The tricuspid valve is on the right side between the right atrium
and right ventricle. The mitral and tricuspid valves open and close at the
same time. As the pressure builds, it forces the tricuspid and mitral valves
to close. As these close, blood is ejected through the pulmonary valve to
your lungs, and the aortic valve to your body. When the pump empties, the
pressure drops and both the pulmonary and aortic valves close, and the
tricuspid and mitral valves open again. This cycle repeats over and over
again and does not stop until you do!

What are palpitations and arrhythmias?

Also known in the medical arena as arrhythmias, it simply means a
change in the beating rhythm of the heart (these terms are used
interchangeably throughout this book). Palpitations are just one of the ways
that a biological, physical or mental stress can manifest itself throughout the
body. It is generally more common in people who are continually stressed or
lead a highly active lifestyle.
There are two major types of arrhythmias: tachycardia (the heartbeat is
too fast - more than 100 beats per minute) and bradycardia (the heartbeat is
too slow - less than 60 beats per minute). Arrhythmias’- are identified by
where they occur in the heart (atria or ventricles) and by what happens to
the heart’s- rhythm when they occur.
Atrial Arrhythmias begin in the arteries. They include Atrial Fibrillation,
Atrial Flutter, Supraventricular Tachycardias, Wolff-Parkinson-White
Syndrome, Sick Sinus Syndrome, Sinus Arrhymia, Sinus Tachycardia and
Multi-focal Atrial Tachycardia. The most common forms of Atrial
Arrhythmias are Supraventricular Tachycardias, Atrial Flutter and Atrial
Fibrillation (see appendix for further details).
Ventricular Arrhythmias begin in the ventricles. Ventricular Arrhythmias
are usually caused by heart disease and are more likely to pose a potential
danger. Ventricular Arrhythmias come in three forms: Premature Ventricular
Contraction, Ventricular Fibrillation and Ventricular Tachycardia (see
appendix for further details).

What symptoms are experienced?

When your heart is experiencing a palpitation episode, your blood may
not be able to move well through your body. This may cause you to
experience some or all of the following symptoms:
- Light-headed or dizziness.
- Shortness of breath.
- Feeling sick into your stomach.
- Feeling weak or tired.
- Increased pressure in your head.
- Tightness in your chest, neck, jaw, arms, or back.
- Feeling anxious, scared, or worried.
- A sense of “impending doom”.
- Fainting or passing out.
Some people feel fine and are symptom-free during episodes, whilst
others, from their heart beating so fast, will black out. Most individuals,
however, will experience their episodes differently from another. These may
vary from how long it lasts and how fast it is beating, to what is causing it
and your general health afterwards.

What causes arrhythmias?

Your heartbeat is controlled by a special electrical system. Arrhythmias
are caused by a problem with your electrical system in the heart’s muscles.
You may have been born with this where it has hidden benign until now or it
may be caused by something entirely different.
Exercise, illness (emotionally and physically) and stress may also trigger
an episode. Other things that trigger an attack include pregnancy, smoking,
drug use, alcohol and caffeine. It could also be caused by a heart condition
such as a valve problem, blocked arteries, thyroid problems, previous heart
surgery, dehydration or heart failure.

How are they diagnosed?

It can be hard for your Doctor and Cardiologist to find out what is
causing your symptoms. Often, arrhythmic episodes stop before you get a
chance to see your Doctor or Cardiologist. This can make it difficult for them
to find out what is wrong. With this aside, medical practitioners will examine
your medical history, symptoms and heart/lungs. It may be worth getting
them to test your blood and urine for possible causes. An ultrasound can be
taken and often is beneficial if a problem cannot be found through x-rays or
an EKG. An exercise stress test is especially helpful if you think it is exercise
related. Another common diagnosis tool for measuring your heart’s rhythm,
is a holter monitor (portable heart monitor) which can be worn whilst you
go about your daily activities.
Another test, although not too common, is the tilt table test. This test is
used to watch what happens to your heart and blood pressure when you
change position.
If your arrhythmia is not helped by medication or any of the suggestions
to come, you may need an electrophysiology study. This test is used to "map
out" the electrical pathways in your heart that control your heartbeat.
Readings are taken through small wires that are fed to your heart through a
blood vessel in your arm or groin. Your doctor uses these wires to trigger
your arrhythmia and find the best way to treat it.
 Preventing Arrhythmias through
dietary changes
1) Water

a. Guyton's Textbook of Medical Physiology states that the total

amount of water in a man is roughly 57% of his total body weight.
Your blood, however, is approximately 90% water and is responsible
for transporting nutrients and energy to muscles and for taking
waste from tissues. Therefore, if you are not getting enough water,
your body will react by pulling it from other places, including your
blood. This is obviously not a good move for arrhythmia sufferers as
it causes the closure of some smaller vessels (capillaries), making
your blood thicker and more susceptible to clotting. This makes it
harder to pump through your system. This commonly manifests
itself as arrhythmias, hypertension, high cholesterol and other heart
issues.
b. For these reasons, it is more important than ever for arrhythmia
sufferers to not only keep hydrated, but to always keep yourself
topped up. It is important to do this not just by drinking water, but
eating water-content foods. These come in three forms- fruit,
vegetables and sprouts. Additionally, if the potential cause of your
arrhythmia is coming from a build-up of toxins then drinking plenty
of water will aid in cleansing and flushing out toxins.
c. Some sufferers recommend drinking ½ your body weight in ounces
daily. It is also suggested that you have a 1/5 of a teaspoon of sea
salt in each cup as well as promoting electrolyte build-up (similar to
the saline hospital solution). At the day’s end it is useful to drink a
glass of warm water with a teaspoon of honey and half cup of lemon
juice in it. Other variations include adding guava or grapefruit juice
with warm water.
2) Avoid or minimize your food additives.

a. Food additives are added to food to preserve flavour, appearance

and taste. They can make food taste better and will give you the
desire to eat more than you need. With the increase of processed
foods, more artificial additives have been introduced. In September
2007, research financed by Britain’s Food Standards Agency
presented evidence that a mix of additives commonly found in
children’s foods increases the average level of hyperactivity.

b. The arrhythmia symptom dietary culprits most often reported are

sulphite preservatives (220-228), propionate preservatives (280-283),
benzoate preservatives (210-213 especially sodium benzoate 211 in
drinks) and Monosodium glutamate (MSG can show up under other
names such as E621, Yeast Extract, autolyzed yeast and calcium
 caseinate.)
c. Most of these are excitotoxins. They are used as a food additive and
are commonly marketed as a flavour enhancer. Dr Russell Blaylock,
author of Excitotoxins the Taste that Kills, discovered that
excitotoxins, particularly MSG, may aggravate or precipitate many
neurological disorders. He goes on to state that these chemical
transmitters literally can excite your brain cells to death.
d. For some people, MSG causes not just arrhythmias, but seizures,
brain damage, allergies, strokes and hypoglycaemia. MSG, for
example, is commonly found in canned soups and foods, sausages,
potato chips and frozen and processed foods. It is also more
common in Chinese foods and has been dubbed the “Chinese
Restaurant Syndrome”.
e. You should try and avoid food additives, by eating food in its natural
form, the way it was meant to be. Try and take a step in this
direction- by eating less processed foods and more vegies and fresh
foods.

Diagram courtesy of Daily Mail, 2010.

3) Consider a Macrobiotic diet.

a. Macrobiotics (Greek, “Macro”: long, “bios”: life) is considered an

approach to life rather than a diet.
b. Many follow the macrobiotic diet because they believe it will help
most illness or disease. Michio Kushi's book "The Cancer Prevention
Diet" outlines the fundamental philosophy for diet and cancer
prevention which has long been advocated by some as a
preventative and; for some; cure for cancer. Also, a study at the
Tulane School of Public Health reported considerable progress in the
longevity of cancer patients. Some turn to macrobiotics in the belief
that it will strengthen their physical and mental well-being and
quality of life, combining macrobiotic practices with Western and
Eastern medicine. Although palpitations are normally by no means
as serious as cancer, this highlights the profound impact dietary
change can have.
c. The principles of a macrobiotic diet which are appropriate for
palpitations sufferers include:
1. An emphasis on locally grown whole grain cereals, pulses (legumes),
vegetables, seaweed, fermented soy products and fruit.
2. Avoiding highly processed or refined foods.
3. Avoid overeating.
4. Chewing thoroughly before swallowing.
5. Mixing your foods in balance.
d. These principles help arrhythmia sufferers twofold. Apart from the
reasons aforementioned, it is a chemical-free, plain and mindful way
to eating which will allow the body to realign and balance its internal
minerals and vitamin levels which are typically out of balance with
heart conditions.
4) Avoid smoking and smokers.

a. Irrefutable evidence shows smoking (including passive smoking) is

linked to heart issues. If you are serious about preventing an episode
or attack from happening, simply stop smoking. This one is a definite
given. It is believed by many that excessive cigarette smoking can
also cause or at least contribute, to heart palpitations.
5) Avoid alcohol.

a. Just like smoking, this is another obvious choice. You may

think of your heart simply as a strong muscular pump, but the
fact is, this organ is particularly sensitive to many things going
on. It is well known that the consumption of alcohol can affect
the rate at which the heart beats- usually, but not always,
acting to increase the rate.
b. Not only does alcohol have a direct effect on the heartbeat, but
complications of alcoholism, such as an injury to heart muscles,
neurohumoral disturbances (relating to the nervous system to
hormones), and depletion of various electrolytes, may cause
immediate and future cardiac arrhythmias. The association of
paroxysmal, or sudden; cardiac arrhythmias, caused by alcohol
abuse in persons without a prior heart condition, is commonly
called the "holiday heart”. This is because when people over-
indulge on their holiday they can experience these symptoms.
6) Cut down/out the stimulants.
a. Caffeine is an easy one that can kick-start an arrhythmia that
you should simply start to kick yourself or cut down on for a
while. The main sources of caffeine are coffee, chocolate and
some soft drinks and teas. Regular use of caffeine simply leads
to tolerance; so in order to maintain the same level of central
nervous system stimulation over time, higher doses must be
ingested. And if you love the taste, try going to a quality decaf
alternative.
b. High doses of caffeine (500 to 600 mg) will raise systolic blood
pressure to a small degree; this may be pertinent for those who
already have hypertension.
c. Caffeine and chocolate can have benefits from enhancing
performance to improving memory and attention, but these
benefits can also be enjoyed from eating an apple. Sure, it may
not taste the same, but try going without any source of caffeine
for 30 days and see how your body reacts. You are guaranteed
that not only will you have more energy and zest, but you will
be healthier as a result.
Note: As a rule of Thumb, if a product contains more than five ingredients that you
can’t pronounce, rethink putting it in your mouth.
7) Energy drinks and sugary drinks.

a. We are often warned of the effects of drinking energy drinks.

The main reason is that stimulants dehydrate you of your
electrolytes. It is these electrolytes that need to stay in balance
to keep you in balance.
b. The popularity for energy drinks can again be found in their
primary ingredient- caffeine. The average cup of coffee
contains around 75 milligrams of caffeine. Red Bull- on the
lower end of the scale contains 80mg, whereas some others
contain up to 380mg per can.
c. Yes, they may contain taurine, ginseng, guarana, fruit, amino
acids and vitamins, but they are generally in small doses and
the properties are null and void from all the other combination
of the bad stuff.
d. With the double excesses of caffeine and sugar, it is quite
common in causing arrhythmias and potentially deadly
arrhythmias.
e. Also try skipping all sport supplement drinks (especially
containing ephedra), sugary drinks (straight fruit juice is the
worst!) for 30 days and notice the changes that occur in your
body.
8) Stay far away from Phenylalanine and
Aspartame.

a. Even as far back as the 1976, the Groliers Encyclopaedia stated

that cancer cannot live without phenylalanine. Debates are still
heated today on whether phenylalanine is dangerous. Either
way rarely does it receive good press. The view against
phenylalanine basically says that it is a neurotoxin and excites
the neurons in the brain to the point of cellular death.
Tachycardias, ADD/ADHD, emotional and behavioural disorders
are all common triggers of taking too much Phenylalanine. In a
small percentage, some individuals have phenylketonuria (PKU)
which is the inability to metabolize phenylalanine. Unless it is
avoided, it can be potentially deadly.
b. A non-food source of phenylalanine is the artificial sweetener
aspartame (also known as number 951). Phenylalanine makes
up 50% of aspartame. This compound is sold under trade
names such as Equal and NutraSweet. All products in Australia,
UK, U.S. and Canada that contain aspartame must be labelled
“Contains phenylalanine.” Other products that contain
phenylalanine include diet soft drinks, breath mints, some
cereals, sugar-free chewing gum, cocoa mixes, frozen desserts,
gelatin desserts, juices, milk drinks and some teas and instant
coffee. The rule of thumb is if it says “sugar free”- don’t touch
it, it is highly likely it contains phenylalanine.

9) Bye Dairy, Hello Alternatives.

a. Certainly milk contains good things for healthy living- protein,
vitamins, calcium and so on. But milk also contains lactose a
unique ingredient that can be harmful. Milk protein allergies
and lactose intolerance have been linked to a wide array of
physical symptoms, which no surprise here, includes
palpitations.
b. In some cases where lactose intolerance has ultimately been
diagnosed, patients have previously been labelled as
hypochondriacs which increase their stress levels and which
evidently leads to palpitations. If you think you may fall into any
of these categories, go dairy-free for a while and see if you
notice any changes. There are many great options on the
market from Rice, Almond to Oat Milk and some types of Soy
Milk products.
10) Minimize Yeast Intake.

a. Candidiasis or thrush is a fungal infection (mycosis) of

which Candida albicans is the most common. Candidiasis
encompasses infections that range from superficial, such
as oral thrush and vaginitis, to systemic and potentially
life-threatening diseases.
b. Candidiasis is a yeast build up. Yeast is commonly present
on normal human skin and in areas of moisture, such as
the mouth and vagina. In fact, it is estimated that between
20%-50% of healthy women normally carry yeast in the
vaginal area.
c. While clearly attributable in the presence of the
opportunistic pathogens of the genus Candida, candidiasis
describes a number of different disease syndromes that
often differ in their causes and outcomes, many of which
include arrhythmia symptoms.
d. It is strongly recommended that you follow a yeast-free
diet or a Candida-free diet for a minimum of 30 days as it
will help eradicate Candida, which after a lifetime for most
of us of eating yeast products, will be dearly thanked by
our body. A Candida-free diet has been quite successful for
many arrhythmia sufferers.
 Note: Tachycardia suffers had higher success rates when following a
Candidia type diet for 30 days to also go without gluten and dairy products.
11) Goodbye Gluten.

a. Gluten is a composite of the proteins gliadin and glutenin.

These exist, conjoined with starch, in the endosperms of
some grass-related grains, notably wheat, rye and barley.
b. The manifestations of reactions from gluten range from
no symptoms to malabsorption of nutrients with
involvement of multiple organ systems (known as celiac
disease). The only effective treatment is a lifelong gluten-
free diet. A gluten-free diet is a diet completely free of
ingredients derived from gluten-containing cereals: wheat,
barley, rye and triticale, as well as the use of gluten as a
food additive in the form of a flavouring, stabilizing or
thickening agent. Sometimes it may exclude oats.
c. Again for arrhythmia sufferers, particularly chronic
arrhythmia sufferers, success has been shown in
individuals who go without gluten for a length of time to
balance their body again. If you chose to do this, it is worth
doing it in conjunction with a yeast and dairy free period
for four weeks.
12) Potassium.

a. As mentioned earlier, one of the primary causes of

arrhtymias are electrolyte imbalances. Electrolytes are
electrically charged ions. They include elements like
sodium, calcium, magnesium and potassium. Electrolytes
are critical for muscle function and as the heart is one big
muscle, if the electrolytes are imbalanced then
palpitations can occur.
b. Potassium is necessary for adequate muscle contraction
and rapid transmission of nerve impulses through the
body. Potassium produces healthy electrical activity in the
heart and rapid transmission of nerve impulses throughout
the body. Proper conduction of nerve impulses is essential
for smooth, coordinated movement of muscle as related
to motion. It helps trigger your heart’s squeeze of blood
through your body. Studies have discovered that high-
sodium diets significantly impact pressure within blood
vessels. One major study by the Duke University Research
Centre showed that people with high blood pressure, who
took potassium supplements (4700mg daily), reduced their
systolic blood pressure (the top number) by as much as 20
points.
c. Potassium is easily absorbed, but at least 90% of it is
excreted through the kidneys and bowels. Potassium is
vital in the elimination of waste from the body. Potassium
is a natural diuretic, helping your body excrete water and
sodium, thus promoting good cardiovascular health.
d. Potassium, a great alkalizer, is an unadorned mineral with
a crucial job: helping your heart beat. It helps to support
healthy pressure within blood vessels. Some SVT sufferers
found that by having extra potassium every day for a
couple of weeks their episodes either stopped outright or
notably decreased.
e. Heartbeat irregularities are commonly considered a classic
sign of potassium deficiency. Some people with heart
failure need to eat foods high in potassium. Some
potassium-rich foods include: bananas, strawberries,
beets, spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms and fish.
13) Apple Cider Vinegar.

a. Sometimes palpitations can be the result of a lactic acid

build up in the body. This causes intracellular damage. One
of the ways to overcome this is through a few tablespoons
of Apple Cider Vinegar a couple of times a day.
b. You probably know Apple Cider Vinegar as a “help
everything” remedy that your Grandmother simply swears
by. It has a very bitter taste which is best overcome by
adding a little baking soda, lime juice or honey. This is one
of the folk remedies that actually does surprisingly work.
c. Theoretically, prolonged use over many years of apple
cider vinegar could interact with potassium levels, which
could increase the risk of toxicity of cardiac glycoside drugs
such as Lanoxin (Digoxin). Therefore it is best if you are on
Digoxin to check your potassium levels every few months.
14) Organic Black Strap Molasses.

a. Blackstrap molasses is a healthy sweetener. It is what is

removed from sugar cane to make sugar. Sugar has no
nutrition in it. All of the nutrition is in the blackstrap
molasses. With 720mg, it is the highest food source of
potassium. Blackstrap molasses is a very good source of
calcium. Molasses is also an excellent source of copper,
manganese and magnesium.
b. It also is a great source of chromium. This is needed by the
body to digest sugar. So when you eat sugar, the body has
to rob the body of nutrients like chromium to digest the
sugar. Organic black strap molasses is a great side-assist
for arrhythmia sufferers who also suffer from having a
sweet tooth.
15) Oregano.

a. This culinary herb can make a sizeable contribution.

Oregano, and especially oregano oil, is antiviral,
antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic. It has a
significant weighting in the treatment of internal and
external fungi. In the book “The Cure is in the Cupboard”,
Cass Ingram D.O., states that the “oil of oregano outright
destroys all varieties of fungi and yeasts, regardless of
where they reside."
b. Oregano (as well as rosemary and thyme) is found to be
rich in polyphenols (phenolics), a diverse group of
antioxidants that improve cardiovascular health.
c. So go about getting some fresh or wild oregano and add it
on all your dishes. It is great on most things including
chicken, fish, eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, salmon and
radishes.
d. Other helpful herbs include green tea, lime leaves, basil
and sage. I have also heard of a few people who have seen
some benefit with using herbs through aromatherapy.
Preventing Arrhythmias through
Vitamins & Supplementation
16) Calcium.

a. Calcium promotes blood from clotting by activating

the protein fibrin. When taken in conjunction with
magnesium the beneficial properties of calcium are
amplified. Calcium helps to regulate the heart’s sinus
rhythm, muscle tone, muscle contraction and nerve
conduction. However, make sure you are getting
enough vitamin D and vitamin K as well, as it will help
the calcium metabolise. The latter, vitamin K, fulfils
an important role in the utilization of calcium which
helps maintain calcium in the bone and out of your
soft tissue.
17) Aloe Vera.

a. The three main categories of research include

the anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial and anti-
viral actions of Aloe Vera. The juice soothes
digestive tract irritations such as colitis, ulcers
and irritable bowel syndrome.
b. The common consensus is that Aloe Vera
benefits the circulatory system. Aloe Vera lowers
triglycerides and the “bad cholesterol” while also
raising the “good cholesterol”. Several studies
have shown that when Aloe Vera is added to the
diet, symptoms and signs of coronary artery
disease disappeared. Remarkably, the people in
the study never developed cardiovascular
 problems including arrhythmias whilst taking
Aloe Vera. The same studies noted that patients
were able to discontinue their prescriptions of
the pills they had taken in the past for chest
pain, blood pressure and blood sugar control.
However, Aloe Vera should be added in
conjunction with other medicines as it is a great
natural assist of many supplements.

18) Chromium.
a. Chromium is needed to metabolize sugar.
Chromium then becomes involved in the
processes that make glucose available for
energy. If you have a chromium deficiency, this
will certainly not be helping your palpitations. It
is linked to your heart in many ways and also has
direct linkages to other problems such as
diabetes, heart disease, cholesterol and weight
loss.
b. It is also even more vital for people over 55 who
exercise regularly, as this may increase the loss
of chromium from the body in urine, and you
may just need to up your chromium intake.
19) Magnesium.

a. Magnesium is necessary in more than 300

enzymatic reactions in the body. Although
magnesium has many uses in the human body, it
has a major role in the health of the heart.
Because of its ability to block the entry of
calcium into vascular smooth-muscle cells and
heart muscle cells, it has been referred to as
"nature's calcium channel-blocker". As a result,
magnesium supplementation can stop
palpitations, reduce vascular resistance, lower
blood pressure and lead to more efficient heart
function.
b. Without magnesium, the cells cannot pump
potassium and sodium in and out of the cell. A
magnesium deficiency is therefore often the
culprit when a potassium deficiency is
suspected. One can supplement the diet with
potassium and still not see an improvement in
health conditions because the potassium is not
getting inside the cells where it needs to be due
to a lack of magnesium.
c. Magnesium deficiencies increase our
susceptibility to not only heart problems, but
also kidney stones, cancer, insomnia, PMS,
menstrual cramps and stress. An interesting note
to remember is that both heart palpitations and
stress are often individual symptoms of a
magnesium deficiency.
20) Multi –Vitamins.

a. Most people do not suffer from serious

malnutrition, yet their bodies are typically
slightly deficient in various nutrients. Even a
slight deficiency can pose an increase in
many health problems, including
arrhythmias. Only around 30 percent of
Australians, Canadians, UK and US consume
the recommended five servings a day of
fruits and vegetables. So it is even more
important that the remaining 70 percent
should be taking a multi-vitamin
supplement. From a practical standpoint,
almost everyone can benefit from taking a
multivitamin to fill a possible nutrient gap.
21) Selenium.

a. A selenium deficiency can lead to heart

palpitations, since a selenium protein works
in the heart muscle. If you have a low
selenium level, selenium supplementation
should be taken as it is strongly linked to
arrhythmias. Ask your doctor about your
selenium level, as care should be taken to
not overdo a good thing. Selenium can have
toxic symptoms when taken in excess.
22) Hawthorn Berry Extracts.

a. Hawthorn is an important botanical

cardiotonic (capable of producing and
restoring the normal tone of the heart). It
also was originally used for this reason by
the first early American eclectic physicians
back in the 1800s and is still used for the
same reason in modern medicine.
b. Hawthorn is known to strengthen the
heart. Medications are made from the
flowers and especially the berries of the
Hawthorn Tree. Hawthorn improves the
integrity of veins and arteries, enhancing
circulation and nutrition to the heart, thus
improving the function of the heart muscle
itself. Hawthorn also may help control
arrhythmias. The main cardiovascular
benefit is that it improves blood supply to
the heart by dilating the coronary blood
vessels and also helps the metabolic
process in the heart.
23) Herbs.

a. Herbs that strengthen the heart are

often green or red. Examples include
hawthorn, rose, strawberry and
raspberry. These help reduce
hypertension, tonify the heart and
eliminate excess fluid. Black haw root
bark, for example, is antispasmodic,
supplies phytosterols and helps a
racing heart.
b. Heart palpitations due to nervousness
and anxiety can also be treated using
herbs like valerian and bugleweed in
different supplemental forms. Some
natural medical practitioners also
believe heart palpitations and cardiac
muscle excitement is calmed by white
horehound.
c. When the heart beats too fast, a
Chinese herb called Cordyceps may
help slow the rate. It also increases the
blood supply to the heart and may
lower blood pressure.
d. The best thing to do when it comes to
herbs is to see a Chinese herbalist. If
you are taking any medication, it is
good to let your Cardiologist or Doctor
know.
24) Taurine.

a. Taurine is an important amino acid in

our body. It is found mostly in our
central nervous system, skeletal
muscle and in greater concentration in
our heart and brain. Taurine functions
in the brain and the heart to stabilize
the cell membrane by regulating the
electro-chemical forces.
b. There have been studies showing the
positive effectiveness of taurine on
heart failure. Aside from having
diuretic properties, taurine is able to
strengthen the heart muscles and
maintain proper calcium balance.
Together with CoQ10 and carnitine,
taurine is able to regulate the heart’s
contractility and guard against toxic
threats. Working together with
magnesium, taurine also is able to
regulate heart rhythm and helps to
stabilize it. So it is important that when
taking taurine you are also taking
adequate magnesium as well.
25) L-Arginine.

c. The common benefits of L-Arginine

(also known as Arginine) include
boosting immunity, reducing the chest
pain of angina, increasing mental
acuity and opening clogged arteries.
But the main benefit for arrhythmia
sufferers is its relationship with Nitric
Oxide (NO). In the body, the amino
acid L-Arginine changes into nitric
oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a powerful
neurotransmitter that improves
circulation and helps blood vessels
relax.
d. Evidence shows that L-Arginine helps
improve blood flow in the arteries of
the heart. Since L-Arginine helps
arteries relax and improves blood flow,
it may also help with alertness, fluidity
in movement and erectile dysfunction.
26) Creatine.

a. Creatine is a naturally occurring amino

acid (protein building block) found
mainly in muscles. Fifty percent of
creatine in our bodies is ingested
through the foods we eat, while the
other 50% is made in the liver, kidney,
and pancreas.
b. Cardiac creatine levels are depressed
in chronic heart failure.
Supplementation of creatine has been
shown to increase muscle strength and
physical performance. Since your heart
is a muscle, this can be extremely
beneficial. Research has been done on
how creatine seems to assist atrial
fibrillation sufferers.
c. Creatine has also been reported to
help lower levels of homocysteine.
Homocysteine is a marker of potential
heart disease, including heart attack
and stroke. But just like Selenium, be
careful not to have too much.
27) Pau d’Arco.

a. No firm evidence from research has

been provided as to what within Pau
d'Arco is lethal to fungus, but there are
very positive scientific findings in its
ability in fighting yeast, fungi and
bacterial infections.
b. It is very efficient and effective at
killing off Candida Albicans fungus. If
your palpitations are caused by too
many toxins or an infection in your
body, Pau d’Arco will help. Some
medical practitioners recommend
making use of Pau d'Arco when on an
antibiotic regimen as it is effective in
reducing the amount of toxins that can
be leftover in your body. Little
research has been done on Pau D’Arco,
but it is worth doing your own trial and
seeing if it works for you.
28) Slippery Elm.

a. The small-leaved elm is indigenous to

the moist woodlands of eastern North
America. Although similar species grow
in Europe and were used to a limited
degree by ancient Greek physicians,
slippery elm is closely identified with
Native American herbalism. It was
used centuries ago for soothing skin
and digestive irritations.
b. It is a high fibre herb and it is often
prescribed to arrhythmia sufferers who
think the problem may be due to an
internal infection. The taste is very
bitter and bland, but it is very effective
in giving your internal digestive system
a good clean.
29) Flax Oil.

a. Flax seed oil is derived from the seeds

of a blue flowering plant that grows in
Western Canada. It is one of the
richest known sources of omega-3
fatty acids, an essential form of fat that
is vital for health. In addition to this, it
also has a high content of omega-6
fatty acids which is crucial for reducing
excess cholesterol build up in the
arteries. Doctors typically recommend
that arrhythmia sufferers get adequate
levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty
acids.
b. Studies show omega-3 can help to
protect the cardiovascular system from
a host of problems, from blood clots to
high blood pressure and fat levels.
c. Flax seed oil may also help to prevent
not only heart arrhythmias but strokes.
While many people associate omega-3
fatty acids with fish oils, flax seed oil
actually contains twice the omega-3
found in fish.
 Preventing
Arrhythmias through
Lifestyle Choices
30) Exercise regularly.

a. Anaerobic exercises (e.g.

weightlifting) and cardio-aerobic
activities (e.g. walking, cycling,
jogging and swimming) are a
definite must for arrhythmia
sufferers despite contrary belief.
The ACSM recommends 3-5 days
of cardio for about 30-60 minutes,
whereas Bill Phillips, creator of
Body for Life, recommends 20
minutes of high intensity cardio at
least 3 times a week. However,
your decision to exercise, though,
is not as important as actually
going out and exercising.
b. Our bodies are made to move,
not sit around all day and for
most of us that is exactly what we
do. This makes it all the more
important to get outside and
change our bodies instead of the
T.V remote. Sometimes
palpitations are a good reminder
that you have not taken care of
your body and it is trying to fight
back. A stronger heart and lungs,
reduced stress, increased self-
confidence and a reduced risk of
heart disease are some of the
 benefits that we all are aware of.
Do not ignore the fact that
becoming more active can make
your life better.
c. Moving around increases blood
flow to our muscles, strengthens
the heart and lungs and teaches
the heart to work more
efficiently. Not only is it crucial for
palpitation sufferers, but when
you exercise you set a good
example for your family, friends
and kids to do the same- which
means a better future for them.
But remember to warm up.
Abrupt exercise for some people
can bring on an arrhythmia.
31) More sleep.

a. Your heart and nervous system

depend on rest. There is a strong
link between a lack of sleep and
cardiovascular conditions. Exactly
how a lack of sleep feeds plaque
in the heart arteries is not yet
clear, but one explanation may
involve inflammation. Too little
sleep can raise cortisol levels
which fuels inflammation that can
destabilize plaque. Once these
deposits rupture, they can block
vessels in the heart or brain,
causing heart problems.
b. Lack of sleep can trigger
autonomic disturbances in our
body which can change your sinus
rhythm. So maybe part of the
answer in helping your heart is
pressing the snooze button in the
morning or better still, go to bed
earlier.
32) Change your
thoughts.

a. It is important to recognize that

our bodies largely carry symptoms
that are the product of our
thoughts. Sometimes a negative
thought pattern can be the
biggest factor manifesting itself
physically as palpitations. Try and
notice if you have any recurring
thoughts that may be causing this.
It is important in not just helping
your arrhythmia, but for your
general well-being to eliminate
unnecessary stress.
a. See if you can picture yourself in
a state of perfect health. Try 30
days of affirming to yourself that
you have a perfectly healthy
heart. Some suggested affirming
questions are, “Why am I so lucky
to have such a healthy heart?”,
“Why am I so healthy?”, “Why am
I feeling more relaxed and
grateful for my life?”, “Why am I
so emotionally, physically and
spiritually happy every day of my
wonderful life?”
b. If you have heart palpitations that
you think are related to a deep
anxiety disorder, you should seek
medical care from a psychiatrist,
not just a cardiologist.
33) Yoga.

a. Yoga is one of the best

exercises for releasing stress
and tension when it comes
to arrhythmia treatment. It
may take a few sessions to
get used to, but having a
disciplined approach to yoga
will be thoroughly worth it
for your body in the long run.
b. One of the better yoga poses
for arrhythmia control is the
Dead Pose which you can
practice at home. Simply lie
on your back with your arms
by your side. Keep your
palms facing up and breathe
effortlessly and normally
while keeping your attention
on your breath. Practice this
pose for five minutes a day,
especially when you feel
stressed, to help naturally
control a healthy sinus
rhythm.
34) Meditation.

a. Meditation is an endeavour
to get beyond the reflexive
“thinking” mind. Calming
down the mind through
meditation is accompanied
by biochemical and physical
changes in the body that
alter everything from your
heart rate, respiration, blood
pressure to even your brain
chemistry. If you are
susceptible to stress,
meditation is a great
treatment for arrhythmias. It
is also something that can be
done anywhere, anytime if
you have a spare few
minutes. By relaxing and
taking control of your
breathing and focusing on a
calm scene you take control
of your body, which also will
lower your heart rate.
35) Diaphragmatic
Breathing.

a. “If you tend to hold your

breath, as some people do
when they are frightened,
tensed or stressed, or if your
breathing is shallow and
rapid, you can upset your
heart's natural rhythm,” says
Robert Fried, Ph.D., author of
“The Psychology and
Physiology of Breathing in
Behavioural Medicine”.
b. Most people do not breathe
correctly. This may sound
somewhat ridiculous, but
natural breathing involves
your diaphragm, a large
muscle in your abdomen that
is considered a healthier and
fuller way to ingest oxygen.
c. Diaphragmatic breathing is
when you breathe deep into
 your lungs by flexing your
diaphragm rather than
breathing shallowly by
flexing your rib cage. This
deep breathing is marked by
expansion of the stomach
rather than the chest when
breathing.
d. Try and notice throughout
the day how you are
breathing, where you are
breathing from and if you are
susceptible to shallow
breathing.
36) Techniques to stop
arrhythmias.

a. The idea behind these

manoeuvres is to break the
abnormality of your heart’s
electrical circuit. Most
actions work by stimulating
your Vagus nerve to release
chemicals to stabilize your
heart rate. Here are 11 of the
most effective techniques (in
no particular order):
i. Coughing.
ii. Holding your breath.
iii. Close your eyes, stay still, sit
down, focus on a relaxing
scene and take deep, slow
breaths.
iv. Blocking your nose and
mouth and breathing out so
your ears pop.
v. Immersing your face in cold
water.
vi. Tensing your muscles as if
you are having a bowel
movement.
 vii. Push from your stomach as if
you are giving birth.
viii. Lying upside down with your
feet above the level of your
head.
ix. Thumb over the wrist.
x. Rubbing the top of your
eyelids in a circular motion.
xi. Gagging.
xii. Massaging the carotid artery
(the big vein running up the
side of your neck).
xiii. “Humming” strongly for a
while utilizing the nose
(increases blood nitric oxide
levels).
xiv. Pill in the purse/wallet
(Hopefully unnecessary, but
a practical last resort
solution).
Please put into practice some of
these suggestions that you think will
work for you. Also, any feedback on
these methods or any you have
personally found successful is
appreciated. If you have a question
or queries, please forward an email
to help@stoppalpitations.com. It is
my heartfelt wish that you find here
the long-term solutions that will
prevent palpitations happening in
yours.
 Appendix A: Further
description of
Arrhythmias
1) Atrial Fibrillation.
a. This is a rapid heart rate
caused by chaotic electrical
impulses in the atria. These
signals result in fast,
uncoordinated, weak
contractions of the atria.
Episodes may last from a
couple of hours to several
days. Some episodes may not
end unless treated. Most
people with atrial fibrillation
have some structural
abnormalities of the heart
related to such conditions as
heart disease or high blood
pressure. Common
contributing factors include
having a heart valve disorder
or hyperthyroidism.
2) Atrial flutter.
a. This is a very fast, but
regular, rate of the atria
 caused by irregular circuitry
within the atria. The fast rate
results in weak contractions
of the atria. The rapid signals
entering the AV node cause a
rapid and sometimes
irregular ventricular rate.
Atrial flutter may last a
couple of hours or several
days, or the condition may
persist unless treated.
3) Supraventricular
tachycardias (SVTs).
a. These originate somewhere
above the ventricles, are
caused by abnormal circuitry
in the heart are usually
present at birth and creates a
loop of overlapping signals.
Episodes may last only a few
seconds or several hours.
Supraventricular (soo-prah-
ven-trick-u-lar) tachycardia
(tak-ee-kahr-dee-ah), or SVT,
is a condition where your
heart beats much faster than
it should. With SVT, your
heart may beat anywhere
from 140 to 260 beats per
minute. SVT usually comes
and goes, and may last a few
seconds to several days. If
your SVT comes and goes, it
is called paroxysmal (par-ok-
 siz-mal) supraventricular
tachycardia, or PSVT.
b. In one form of SVT, an
abnormality in the AV node
may "split" an electrical
signal into two, sending one
signal to the ventricles and
another back to the atria.
Another common
abnormality is the presence
of an extra electrical
pathway from the atria to
the ventricles that bypasses
the AV node. This may result
in a signal going down one
pathway and up the other.
Wolff-Parkinson-White
syndrome is the most
common disorder featuring
an extra pathway.
4) Ventricular tachycardia
a. It is a rapid rate that
originates with abnormal
electrical signals in the
ventricles. The rapid beat
doesn't allow the ventricles
to fill and contract efficiently
to pump enough blood to the
body. Ventricular tachycardia
is often a life-threatening
medical emergency.
Ventricular tachycardia is
usually related to damage to
the heart muscle from a
 previous heart attack or
disease of the heart muscle
(cardiomyopathy).
5) Ventricular fibrillation
a. This occurs when rapid,
chaotic electrical impulses
cause the ventricles to quiver
ineffectively instead of
pumping necessary blood to
the body. This serious
malfunction results in death
if the heart isn't restored to a
normal rhythm within
minutes. Most people who
experience ventricular
fibrillation have an
underlying heart disease or
have experienced serious
trauma, such as being struck
by lightning (exert from
Georgia Department of
Community Health, 2010).