Has anyone experienced extra or missed heartbeats after being on the Atkins diet for a period of six weeks or more?

Hi there Bluepepper,

What does your doctor say about the "missed beats?" If you haven't consulted your doctor about this yet, please do so as soon as possible.

There are many causes of extra beats - among them low potassium. However I feel you should seek medical attention (if you have not already) and let your doctor be the one to determine the cause.

Rosebud

I know I've had irregular heartbeats, after having the flu and my potassium became too low. I was able to correct it with eating foods rich in potassium. My doctor was hesitant about giving me potassium supplements. I would encourage you to seek medical attention. But also, ask your doctor what types of foods are rich in potassium. I also use "lite" salt which uses potassium chloride as well as salt, to increase my potassium. Victoria

Bluepepper,

Rosebud's right! You should see your doc about extra beats....it's important to have it evaluated. There are many things that can cause extra beats. Trying to figure this on your own isn't wise.

Victoria, your doc may have been right in being reluctant to order potassium. If your blood level was within normal limits, you don't need it. If you didn't have a blood level done, then s/he should have ordered one.

Potassium, sodium, other electrolytes, minerals are all involved in taking care of the heart and how it works. Taking too much of one or more can be as dangerous, sometimes even more dangerous, than taking too little!

Cindy

I get that occasionally. For me it isn't potassium that I need, but magnesium.