Peter D'Adamo, M.D., proposes a theory in his book "Eat Right 4 Your Type: The Individualized Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer & Achieving Your Ideal Weight," that people with different blood types react differently to food and should eat vastly different diets to obtain optimum health. People with type A blood function best as vegetarians, according to D'Adamo.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables of all kinds should be staples in the diets of people with type A blood, according to D'Adamo. No fruits or vegetables are off limits, although citrus fruits and dark leafy vegetables are ideal. Citrus fruits, such as oranges, clementines and grapefruit, are rich in vitamin C, which D'Adamo says boosts the immune system. Dark leafy vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach and romaine lettuce, are rich in vitamin K, which D'Adamo notes is particularly important to the overall health of people with type A blood.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are preferred over processed grains for all people, but it is especially important for people with blood type A to favor whole grains, according to D'Adamo. Brown rice, whole wheat pasta, whole grain bread, quinoa and corn are ideal whole grain choices for people with type A blood, notes "Eat Right 4 Your Type: The Individualized Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer & Achieving Your Ideal Weight."
Protein
In addition to avoiding meat-based sources of protein, D'Adamo suggests people with blood type A avoid all dairy products. He notes that people with blood type A are more likely than the general population to suffer from lactose intolerance. Eggs and fish should also be avoided, as D'Adamo says these sources of protein are poorly digested in people with type A blood. Therefore, soy, tofu, legumes and nuts are regarded as the optimal sources of protein for people with type A blood.
Considerations
The medical community at large does not support the theory that blood type impacts nutritional needs, but instead believes that all people have the same basic nutritional requirements, with changes to this baseline occurring as a result of medical conditions, says "Contemporary Nutrition." According to "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies," diets that suggest you cut out entire food groups are likely fad diets without much scientific backing. Consult a dietitian if you are struggling to develop a healthy and balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs.
References
- "Eat Right 4 Your Type: The Individualized Diet Solution to Staying Healthy, Living Longer and Achieving Your Ideal Weight"; Dr. Peter D'Adamo; 1996
- "Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies"; Frances Sizer; 2008
- Eat Right for Your Type: What Makes 'Type A' an Individual?
- "Contemporary Nutrition"; Gordon M. Wardlaw, et al.; 2007
