You probably don’t give too much thought to your blood type unless you’re making a donation to the Red Cross, but according to neuropath Peter J. D’Adamo, knowing your blood type could be the key to unlocking a healthier, leaner body. D’Adamo is the creator of the Blood Type Diet, a program that recommends specific food groups based on your blood type. At our gastroenterology practice, Digestive Health Centers located across DFW, our GI doctors want to help patients in North Texas understand the impact of their diet on overall health.
In this article...
The Blood Type Diet Recommendations
According to D’Adamo, every time you eat, a chemical reaction occurs between your blood and a diverse group of food proteins called lectins. When you consume foods that are incompatible with your blood type, these lectins can bind with blood cells and cause them to stick together, a process known as agglutination. By building your diet around the right food groups for your blood type, D’Adamo claims you will digest your food more efficiently, lose weight, increase energy levels and lower your risk of disease.
Eating for Blood Type O
A high-protein diet consisting mostly of lean meats, poultry, fish and vegetables. Grains, beans, legumes, and dairy should be very limited.
What to Eat for Type A
A vegetarian-based diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and whole grains. Ideally, foods should be fresh and organic.
Eating for Type B
A balanced omnivore diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, eggs, and some meats. Chicken specifically should be avoided, as well as corn, lentils, tomatoes, and some nuts and seeds.
Diet for Blood Type AB
A mixed diet of meat, seafood, tofu, dairy and green vegetables. Alcohol, caffeine, and meats that are smoked or cured should be avoided.
Scientific evidence supporting the Blood Type Diet is extremely limited. Only one study has examined the effects of this diet, and while participants with certain blood types did lower their cholesterol, there is no evidence to conclude that the Blood Type Diet was solely responsible.
Because the Blood Type Diet focuses on whole foods, vitamin supplements, and regular exercise, it is likely to result in weight loss. However, patients with specific dietary needs or chronic conditions such as diabetes should proceed with caution, as diet recommendations may not line up with your current treatment plan. As with any diet program, it is always wise to consult a doctor before making any changes.
GI Care at Digestive Health in Dallas, Texas
The Blood Type Diet offers an interesting perspective on personalized nutrition. If you are considering dietary changes, we recommend speaking to one of our gastroenterologists. At the Digestive Health Centers in Dallas, Plano, and Bedford, our expert gastroenterologists like Dr. Syed Hasan, Dr. Elizabeth Odstrcil, and Dr. Adnan Badr, provide personalized GI care. Take control of your digestive health—schedule an appointment today so your dietary choices align with your overall health needs.