Humans have four distinct types of blood, A, B, AB and O. Each of these blood types have attributes that helped early humans adapt to their environments and nutritional needs. Developers of the blood-type diets researched the evolution of each blood type, and they found that the nutritional needs of each group varied greatly. These experts believe that modern-day dieters will benefit by replicating the eating patterns of their blood-type ancestors. Diets for type A positive blood typically include plenty of vegetables.
Ancestry
The blood type diets evaluate the origins of each blood type, determine the nutritional needs of those earliest of humans and develop an eating plan for dieter to follow today. Type A blood developed as man moved away from hunting and gathering and turned to agriculture as a way to sustain life. Therefore, it is no surprise that the type a diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, while it limits all but extremely modest meat consumption.
What to Eat
Dr. Michael Lam, an originator of blood type dieting, recommends limiting meat, seafood and dairy. When they are eaten, chicken, turkey, grouper, red trout and yogurt are preferred over other sources of protein and calcium. Type As should embrace most of the vegetable family. Broccoli, carrots, greens, artichokes, sprouts and tofu are safe to consume, as are fruits such as berries, plums and prunes.
Foods to Avoid
With the exception of a small amount of poultry and fish, type As should avoid meat and milk products. Most grains are fine to consume, avoiding processed, instant cereals is recommended. While most vegetables are encouraged, for optimal digestion Lam recommends avoiding tomatoes, sweet potatoes, lima beans and cabbage.
Caution
While following any healthy eating plan will help you shed extra weight, not all in the medical community are sold on the practice of diets based solely on the blood type of the dieter. David L. Katz, M.D., director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center and editor-in-chief of the Childhood Obesity Journal, understands the scientific principles behind blood type diets. He cautions that these diets are not well-rounded and are lacking in vital nutrients.
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