Dr. Peter D'Adamo founded the notion of constructing a person's diet around his blood type. Blood type diets question the philosophy that one type of diet "fits all." Dr. D'Adamo constructed blood type diets based on the genetic history of blood types and the biology associated with blood types. People with type A positive and negative blood types flourish best with a vegetarian-based diet that focuses on stress reduction.
While D'Adamo's blood type diet has become very popular, not enough sound scientific research has been conducted to prove its effectiveness. Some doctors express concern that following this diet could result in nutritional problems.
Genetic Heritage and Biology
According to D'Adamo's theory, the ancestors of 21st-century type A individuals developed a life based on the cultivation of grains rather than hunting and gathering. Given this, type A individuals thrive on a no-meat diet. Type A individuals tend to have low levels of acid in the stomach and high levels of digestive enzymes in the small intestines. This balance of acids and enzymes makes it easier to digest carbohydrates, and much more difficult to digest and metabolize animal protein and fat.
Many scientists, such as Michael Klamper at the Toronto Vegetarian Association, question the validity of D'Adamo's theory, stating that it lacks scientific evidence. They express concern that the blood type diets D'Adamo constructed based on his theory may lead to nutritional problems.
Vegetarian Diet
According to D'Adamo, the type A diet centers around a vegetarian diet. Eat food in as natural a state as possible. In other words, eat pure, fresh, organic whole foods, rather than processed or canned goods. Type A stomachs most easily digest these kinds of fresh, whole foods.
Stock your diet with a wide range of vegetables, which are a key source for nutrients and antioxidants. Avoid peppers, potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes and eggplant, which tend to be hard on the type A digestive system. In place of meat products, eat nuts, seeds, beans, legumes and tofu to get protein. Type A eaters can eat some types of fish, including salmon, sea trout and mackerel. Avoid dairy, which is harder to digest. You can eat small amounts of some mild dairy products such as yogurt, mozzarella and ricotta.
Stress Management
According to D'Adamo, type A individuals tend to have high levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, in their bodies. Adjust your diet to balance cortisol levels. Limit sugar, caffeine and alcohol in your diet. Be sure to eat all meals, including breakfast. Eating several small meals throughout the day will help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Eating Habits
According to D'Adamo, to help accommodate the cortisol levels and biological makeup of Type A individuals, it is important to develop certain eating habits. In addition to eating frequent small meals throughout the day, eat more protein in the morning and less at the end of the day. Don't eat when you're anxious, since this will upset your digestion. Chew your food thoroughly; this makes digestion easier.
Lifestyle
According to D'Adamo, type A individuals can control their cortisol levels by making lifestyle adjustments as well. Lower your stress level by avoiding exposure to crowds of people, loud noises and extreme weather conditions. Avoid smoking, overworking, and watching violent TV and movies; get enough sleep at night. Try to maintain a positive outlook on life; negative emotions increase stress. Engage in focusing, calming exercise activities such as tai chi, hatha yoga and meditation.
Benefits
Studies conducted by D'Adamo show that the type A diet can result in noticeable weight loss, since your body must adjust to a meat-free diet. Participants in D'Adamo's study also showed improved digestion, decreased stress, and increased energy and mental clarity. D'Adamo's studies have been criticized widely for not having enough scientific basis.
According to D'Adamo, type A individuals tend to be susceptible to heart disease, cancer and diabetes; the type A vegetarian-based diet helps prevent these illnesses.
Precautions
No scientific research has been conducted to support Dr. D'Adamo's blood type diet. To avoid nutritional and health problems, consult your doctor before making a radical change to your diet.
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