In his book "Eat Right for Your Type," Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo argues that the secret to healthy and vigorous living is as simple as knowing your blood type. According to the author, each of the four main blood types -- A, B, AB and O -- evolved on different foods, and in order to maintain healthy weight and maximal energy it is important to emphasize the foods that are best suited to your type.
Type O: The Hunter
Dr. D'Adamo labels type Os as hunters. Type O persons are meat eaters with hardy digestive tracts best suited to diets high in animal protein. This blood type thrives on intense physical activity, as a result of centuries spent chasing prey. However, type Os can suffer from overactive immune systems and are intolerant to dietary changes, so sticking with a meat-centered diet is recommended.
Foods to Choose
Dr. D'Adamo recommends that type Os eat lean beef, lamb, turkey, chicken and many types of fish as often as desired. Exceptions include bacon, pork, ham and lox, which should be avoided. Other highly beneficial foods for type O blood types include walnuts, pumpkin seeds and many fruits, including figs, plums and prunes. Among the recommended vegetables are artichokes, broccoli, onions and a variety of greens including kale, lettuce, spinach and Swiss chard.
Foods to Avoid
Type Os should restrict consumption of grains, breads, legumes and beans, notes D'Adamo. These foods encourage weight gain. The gluten found in wheat products is a leading factor in weight gain, and eating it is akin to putting the wrong kind of octane in your car. In other words, don't. Certain vegetables also promote weight gain by inhibiting thyroid function in type Os. These include cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and mustard greens. Additionally, type Os don't do well with dairy and eggs.
Sample Meal Plan
Since type Os generally do not tolerate grain products well, Dr. D'Adamo recommends restricting breads to sprouted varieties such as Ezekiel bread. A breakfast of toast with banana is recommended. Lunch options include meat products such as roast beef with a spinach salad and a side of fruit. Dinner should emphasize meat, recommended vegetables and mixed fresh fruit rather than legumes or grains.
Considerations
Opponents of the blood type diet include Dr. Joel Fuhrman, author of "Eat to Live." Dr. Fuhrman contends that D'Adamo makes unscientific and incorrect claims that show a poor understanding of human physiology and are not based on solid science. Specifically, Dr. Fuhrman addresses D'Adamo's claim that type Os have a tendency toward low thyroid function because they do not produce enough iodine by indicating that your body does not produce minerals but rather obtain them from food. Before starting any new diet or treatment, always talk to your health specialist.
References
- "Eat Right for Your Type"; Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo; 1996
- "Eat to Live"; Joel Fuhrman; 2005
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