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Blood Type Diet

What is now most commonly referred to as the Blood Type Diet was brought to the limelight by a book called Eat Right For Your Type by Dr. Peter J. D'Adamo. The book claims there are certain foods people should and shouldn't eat according to their blood type.

The book's basic premise is that Type O's are the dominant, hunter-type, genetically required to eat meat, while Type A's are docile vegetarians, and Type B's are dairy-eating omnivores. However, the "blood type diet" theory and the book which promotes it, present many scientific and nutritional problems which have raised the concern of numerous scientists and health professionals.

The Idea of the Diet
The idea is that by following a specific diet based on your blood type will improve digestion and cause weight loss.

The Diet Advises:
Type A types
should basically stick to fruits and vegetables (high carbs / low fat). They have thicker blood than other blood types, a sensitive immune system, and should not consume dairy products, animal fats and meats. They are at a heightened risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.

Type B types
types should consume a balanced diet (fruits and vegetables, grains, fish, dairy, meat, but avoid chicken). They have the best chance of bypassing or overcoming everyday types of diseases, including heart disease and cancer.

Type AB types
types should consume a mostly vegetarian diet, and only on rare occasions some fish, meat (no chicken), and dairy.

Type O types
types should basically stick to a high protein diet (including red meat), low carbs, and enriched with fruits and vegetables. They should limit the intake of wheat germ, whole wheat products, corn, and avoid dairy products and most nuts.

Type O types are commonly affected with hypothyroidism, high stomach acid (leading to ulcers), and thinner blood with greater resistance to blood clotting.

Pros of the Blood Diet
If you like following a set list of foods that you can and cannot eat, this diet may be for you. Specific guidelines are given for foods, amounts and timing of meals. Weight loss will result from restricting your food intake.

Cons of the Blood Diet
This plan is unrealistic if members of one family have different blood types, causing them to each follow a completely different diet. Each plan unnecessarily eliminates specific groups of foods, which can result in nutrient deficiency.

You must purchase the book to figure out what you can and cannot eat; you also need to know your blood type.