The blood type diet has been trending thanks to claims that sound personal and convincing. This eating approach is said to support overall health, help people looking for tips on how to lose weight, and even lower the risk of certain conditions. So, what exactly is the blood type diet and how is it supposed to be practiced? Keep reading for the complete explanation.

What Is the Blood Type Diet?

This idea was popularized by Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo through his 1996 bestseller, Eat Right 4 Your Type. He proposed that proteins found on red blood cell surfaces are also present along the digestive tract. When these proteins interact with blood type antigens, they are thought to trigger blood clotting, inflammation, digestive problems, and fatigue.

From this perspective, each blood type is believed to require different foods, aligned with ancestral eating habits during human evolution.

Blood Type O

People with blood type O are described as the “hunter type.” As a result, a pattern rich in animal protein, vegetables, and fruits is considered most fitting, often framed as a blood type diet menu tailored to type O blood. In contrast, wheat, legumes, and dairy products are suggested to be limited.

Blood Type A

Blood type A is often called the “farmer type.” A plant-forward or vegetarian pattern is recommended, spotlighting vegetables, soy, whole grains, and organic choices that are considered to match their bodies better.

Blood Type B

Blood type B is labeled the “nomadic type.” The suggested pattern is broader, including meat, dairy, vegetables, and grains. Even so, certain foods are advised against, such as chicken, corn, tomatoes, and peanuts.

Blood Type AB

Blood type AB is viewed as a blend of A and B. Recommended choices include tofu, seafood, low-fat dairy, and leafy green vegetables. On the other hand, caffeine, alcohol, and processed or smoked meats are discouraged.

Is the Blood Type Diet Scientifically Proven?

Even though it sounds intriguing, strong scientific evidence does not support this theory. Studies have not demonstrated specific health advantages linked to eating by blood type.

Respected nutrition experts, including Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RDN, have even described this plan as more of a marketing approach that nudges people toward healthier habits. In many cases, weight loss and improved energy likely come from cutting back on processed foods and added sugars during the plan, not from the blood type itself.

Is the Blood Type Diet Necessary?

Dietitians stress that the best eating plan is one that is healthy, sustainable for the long term, and tailored to your health status, not your blood type.

For instance, if you have high cholesterol, a pattern low in saturated fat will be more helpful whether your blood type is B or AB. In contrast, if you follow strict blood type diet rules to the point of avoiding fiber-rich foods like legumes, whole grains, or tomatoes, you could miss essential nutrients such as fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.

With that in mind, think carefully before trying this approach. Discuss your options with a doctor or a nutritionist to get recommendations that are safer and better suited to your body’s needs.

You can also consult a doctor through the Ai Care app’s consultation feature, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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