The concept of eating or avoiding foods depending on your blood type was developed by Dr. Peter D'Adamo in the 1990s and was popularized by his book "Eat Right For Your Type." He contends that antigens found within blood interact with the nutritional components of food differently, so your diet should reflect which is most beneficial your blood type. Dr. D'Adamo's theories were developed based on personal experience within his practice and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the medical community-at-large. Always consult with a registered health practitioner before making changes to your diet.
History
Blood type AB is the modern merging of type A and type B; it is the rarest blood type. The multiple antigens of AB blood types allow them to easily adapt to environmental and dietary conditions, according to the diet's proponents, although they tend to have a sensitive digestive tract and need to be aware of what is in the foods they are eating. It can be difficult to clearly outline a diet for AB types because they can inherent tendencies predominant in either type but may not know which one they tend toward.
Meat and Protein
Type ABs tend to do well with a mixed diet, but need to be aware of portion control and frequency for certain foods such as red meat. While AB types are more tolerant to meat than type As, they still have the low stomach acidity of A and should tend toward lean animal proteins, tofu and seafood. Type AB also does well with proteins recommended for type Bs such as lamb, mutton, rabbit and turkey.
Grains
Grains and cereals are favorable for AB blood types, although the inner kernel of wheat grain causes acidity in AB types and should be avoided. Consuming too much wheat can cause AB types to develop excess mucous and inflammation in the body, contends Dr. D'Adamo. Buckwheat and corn should also be avoided, and bran should only be consumed once per week. Oatmeal, soy, millet, and rice are beneficial cereal grains for AB types.
Nuts, Seeds and Beans
Antigens in type B blood can cause detrimental insulin reactions when certain beans, seeds and nuts are consumed. Specifically, kidney and lima beans, corn, buckwheat and sesame seeds can cause hypoglycemia in AB types, so limit consumption of these. Type AB prefers peanuts, which boost the immune system, and lentil beans help fight cancer in type ABs. Type ABs tend to have gallbladder problems, so Dr. D'Adamo suggests consuming nut butters as opposed to whole nuts.
Dairy and Eggs
In terms of dairy foods, type ABs tend to follow type B predispositions and benefit from cultured and soured dairy products. Type ABs have an easy time digesting yogurt and sour creams. However, excessive consumption of dairy can lead to production of mucous, to which type As are prone. If you develop respiratory or sinus problems, including asthma, cut back on the consumption of dairy and wheat products. Eggs are a good source of protein and are tolerated well by AB types. However, eggs are high in cholesterol, and since AB types can be susceptible to heart conditions, it is recommended that you eat two egg whites for every one egg yolk.
References
- "Eat Right for Your Type"; Dr. Peter D'Adamo; 1996
- Dr. Lam: Blood Type AB
Member Comments