Which factor can commonly trigger episodes of atrial fibrillation?

Excessive caffeine consumption is a well-documented factor that can trigger episodes of atrial fibrillation. Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system and can lead to an increased heart rate and heightened excitability of the heart's atria. In patients predisposed to atrial fibrillation, high levels of caffeine can disrupt the normal electrical activity in the heart, leading to irregular heart rhythms.

While the other factors might have their own health implications, they are not commonly associated with the immediate onset of atrial fibrillation episodes. For instance, excessive sleep and low physical activity generally do not provoke arrhythmias; instead, they might contribute to other health issues over time. High fiber intake is associated with various cardiovascular benefits and does not have an established link to causing atrial fibrillation. Therefore, caffeine stands out as a known trigger for this condition.