Popularized by the 1996 book, "Eat Right for Your Blood Type" by Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo, the blood type diet refers to the idea that your blood type should determine your diet, workout program and medical choices. This plan is also sometimes referred to as the biotype diet. However, no scientific studies have proven the effectiveness of the diet.
Premise
The general idea behind the blood type diet, according to MayoClinic.com, is that food proteins known as lectins are digested differently depending on on your blood type. Food that isn't digested well because of your blood type can cause health problems, such as a slow metabolism leading to weight gain, allergies and asthma, as well as more serious problems such as cancer and heart disease.
Health Benefits
According to proponents of the diet, following this plan offers myriad health benefits such as weight loss and improvement of chronic health conditions. While the diet is frequently touted as a weight-loss plan, it actually focuses on improving the health of the body overall rather than just shedding pounds.
Foods
The diet divides 16 food groups into three categories: highly beneficial foods, neutral foods and foods to be avoided.
Type As should eat food that is as fresh and organic as possible, because their immune systems are more sensitive, according to D'Adamo's website. A vegetarian diet is ideal, according to Health.com.
Type Bs' weight can be influenced by corn, wheat, buckwheat, lentils, tomatoes, peanuts and sesame seeds, so those foods should be avoided to maintain a normal blood sugar. They should also avoid chicken, due to its agglutinating lectin, and instead eat goat, lamb, mutton, rabbit and venison, as well as green vegetables, eggs and low-fat dairy.
Type Os flourish with high-protein meals that include 6 oz. of lean organic meats and limited amounts of grains, legumes and beans. Stay away from dairy and wheat products, which will cause weight gain, according to Health.com.
Type ABs' food sources reflect both A and B diets. They should focus on tofu, seafood, dairy and green vegetables and avoid corn, buckwheat and sesame seeds like Type B. Seafood is an excellent source of protein for AB, including salmon and tuna.
Exercise
Along with food, the blood type diet also recommends certain types of exercise for each blood type. Type As should participate in stress-relieving exercise such as hatha yoga and tai chi, as well as intense physical activity, as long as they don't over-train. Type Bs should choose physical activity that challenges their minds as their bodies to maintain the balance unique to their blood type. This includes tennis, martial arts, cycling, hiking and golf. Type Os should exercise three to four times a week, engaging in aerobic activity for at least 30 to 45 minutes. Exercise should be brisk and frequent, taxing both the cardiovascular and muscular system. Finally, Type AB should mix three days of aerobic exercise such as biking and two days of stress-relieving yoga or tai chi.
Criticism
No scientific research exists that supports the claims made about the blood type diet. Concerns arise when people are encouraged to eat foods that might not be good for their body, such as a Type B who is told to eat dairy but is lactose-intolerant or a Type A who requires more protein than a vegetarian diet can provide. There is also concern about increased cholesterol levels and weight gain, according to MayoClinic.com.
