Blood Type Diets

You may have noticed that there is a lot of buzz about blood type diets in the media lately. The theory of blood type diets came from Dr James D’Adamo, who thought that because all people are different, they should not be consuming the same foods. Obviously, when a diet suits an individuals needs, then it is not only easier to live by, but may also be more beneficial. He pondered that there had to be a reason why some people might lose a large amount of weight sticking to a certain diet, whilst others adhering to the exact same eating plan fail to lose any weight whatsoever. To test this theory, Dr D’Adamo gave individuals of different blood types different diets, and tested their reactions.

What were the findings?

Type A blood types performed poorly on high protein diets, but did well with lots of vegetable protein – such as tofu and soy. Interestingly, dairy products produced a large amount of mucous production in A blood types. When it came to exercise, high intensity activity caused fatigue quite quickly, whereas lighter forms of exercise, such as yoga, made them feel more energetic and alert.

Type O blood types performed well on high protein diets and felt invigorated when performing high intensity, short burst interval exercises.

So what did further research find?

O is for Old – has been around the longest, so also known as the ‘hunter’ blood type. Protein was the main fuel, therefore digestive processes were tailored to a high meat intake. O types have a ‘hardy’ digestive tract with an overactive immune system. This type responds best with stress – which can be attributed to high intensity interval training. This blood type requires an efficient metabolism to stay lean and energetic. O blood types are also unfortunately the best at storing fat, so fatty foods and refined carbohydrates need to be limited.

A is for Agrarian – initially appeared in Asia/Middle East and is based on cultivation of grains and more farming. This blood type has a better tolerance to grains, and therefore is better at digesting plant foods than animal products. It is also said that A types need to take on an organic, natural diet, as they have poorer immune function than those with O blood type.

B is for Balance – developed after the A blood type, originating in the Himalayan Highlands (Pakistan and India), suggests that B types should enjoy everything in balance, but limit things like wheat, corn, tomato, and peanuts. These foods are thought to effect metabolism and can make the digestive system sluggish. Chicken should be enjoyed occasionally, with red lean meats the preferred protein component of the diet. Exercise should involve the mind as well as the body.

AB is for Modern – people with this blood type (less than 5% of the population) have been found to inherit qualities from both A and B blood types. They often have a lower concentration of stomach acid than other blood types, so red meat can be problematic. Foods that are considered beneficial include seafood, dairy, tofu and green vegetables.

What does this all mean?
As we all know, anything referred to as a ‘diet’ is probably going to be hard to stick to. There are certain aspects of each blood type diet that will always promote weight loss. Obviously, eating lots of vegetables and seeds and cutting out fatty meats is going to aid weight loss in all individuals. Balance is the key to good health, so while these diets may help you lose weight, no eating plan should cut out entire groups of foods. You’re best to stick to a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and wholegrains to not only lose weight, but to promote healthy eating for life.

Email me at kirsty@dynamicnutrition.com.au if you want some more information, or have any other questions.

Maintain My Weight Loss!

Here is a great tool for you all to help you with your weight loss journey. Nicki from maintainmyweightloss.com has created her website, with lots of helpful resources and recipes. My favourite part is that all recipes contain their nutritional content, so you know exactly what you are eating and how many kiljoules you will be consuming! Very helpful if you're trying to burn more than what you are consuming! Have a look:

www.maintainmyweightloss.com

Lunchtime Rut!

From my experiences, the meal that most clients struggle with is lunch. Not only will a nutritious lunch provide many health benefits because of the high vitamin and mineral content, but it will also set you up for the rest of the day and prevent the dreaded 3.30-itis!!

Bringing lunch from home is always going to be the best option when it comes to making healthy choices. When you buy your lunch, serving sizes are usually too generous, you’re never really sure what you're getting, and it can also be very pricey! Many things you can bring for lunch can be prepared the night before, so saying you have no time in the morning is no excuse. Try some of the following lunch ideas:

- Salad with a protein source – these don’t have to be boring! And as an added bonus, you will be adding up to 3 serves of vegetables to your day. Try a mix of dark green leafies, tomato, grated carrot, cucumber, capsicum, spring onion, avocado, with a tin of flavoured tuna or 4-bean mix. The protein will keep you fuller for longer.

- Wholegrain wraps – fill with lots of salad vegetables and chicken, tuna or lean ham off the bone to fill you up.

- Leftovers – your body needs energy most during the day when you’re out and about, so don’t be afraid to have your biggest meal at lunchtime. Pasta stirred through a tomato based sauce with chopped up vegetables is a perfect lunch, can be served hot or cold, and will give you plenty of energy for the afternoon.

- Frittatas/quiches – easy to cook a big slice to feed a few family members, or feed yourself for a couple of days. The combination of egg, noodles and vegetables provide a good mix of nutrients.