Effect of an Exercise and Nutrition Program on Quality of Life in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: The Atrial Fibrillation Lifestyle Project (ALP)

Abstract

Background: Studies of separate exercise and weight loss interventions have reported improvements in quality of life (QoL) or reduction in atrial fibrillation (AF) burden. We investigated the impact of a structured exercise, nutrition, and risk-factor-modification program on QoL and AF burden. Methods: and nonpermanent AF were randomized to an intervention (n = 41) or control group (n = 40). The intervention consisted of cardiovascular risk management and a 6-month nutrition and exercise program, followed by a 6-month maintenance program. All participants received usual AF care. The primary end-point was QoL at 6 and 12 months. Results: = 0.036) remained significant. The burden of AF as measured by Holter monitor and Toronto AF symptom score was not significantly changed. Conclusions: A structured exercise and nutrition program resulted in significant sustained improvements in QoL, without reduction in AF burden. This type of program may provide an additional treatment for people with impaired QoL due to AF.