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.
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