The U.S. government sets guidelines for healthy eating that are designed for all Americans. These guidelines are not based on specific blood types. The theory that certain foods are better or worse for you depending on your blood type was advanced by naturopathic physician Peter D'Adamo in a 1996 book titled "Eat Right 4 Your Health." D'Adamo's claims are not backed by sufficient independent scientific evidence.
Blood Type Diet Basics
D'Adamo's Blood Type Diet is based on the theory that food proteins, called lectins, are digested differently by people of different blood types. He argues that, if you eat foods that are incompatible with your blood type, you may gain weight or suffer from certain medical conditions. For example, he recommends a high-protein diet for people with type-O blood, a vegetarian-style diet for people with type-A blood and a combination diet for those with blood types B and AB. He says everyone should avoid processed foods.
History
D'Adamo says his eating plan is based on his studies of anthropology, medical history and genetics. He claims that his diet recommendations echo the evolution of early man and the appearance of new blood types. For instance, he says blood type O appeared first in the ancient hunter-gatherers who ate a diet of meats and some plants. Blood type A appeared as man moved to a more agrarian lifestyle. Types B and AB followed, and D'Adamo says the diets of these individuals bridge the gap between the O and A diets.
Health
According to D'Adamo's blood type theory, people are predisposed to certain health conditions because of their blood types, and a blood-type based diet may help alleviate some chronic medical conditions or even help prevent diseases such as cancer and diabetes. D'Adamo also recommends exercise plans suited to each blood type, and he sells a line of supplements to help make up for nutrients that might be lost on the restrictive diet plan. Federal health officials stress that a balanced diet is best, and supplements should not be necessary for most people who eat healthy meals.
Blood Type Diet vs. USDA Guidelines
The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a new graphic in 2011 that replaces its well known food pyramid. The graphic and accompanying guidelines are available at MyPlate.gov, which says that everyone should enjoy a variety of foods in properly sized portions. These guidelines advise you to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, make at least half your grains whole grains and switch to fat-free or low-fat milk. The USDA also recommends that you drink water instead of sugary drinks. These guidelines apply regardless of blood type.
References
- USDA: ChooseMyPlate.gov
- Dr. Peter D'Adamo: Eat Right For Your Blood Type
- MayoClinic.com: What Is the Blood Type Diet?; Katherine Zeratsky; August 2010
- Doctors of USC: The Blood Type Diet; Maria Adams; December 2009
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Weight --- It's Not a Diet, It's a Lifestyle!
- USDA: MyPyramid.gov
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