Blood Type Diet

A protein type diet called, the Blood Type Diet, is based on the theory that protein-like compounds in food called lectins react with different blood types to cause a wide variety of health complaints. To help you avoid eating lectins that are incompatible with their blood type, you must learn which foods that are beneficial and those that should be avoided, for each blood type. Although, many food lectins are destroyed by cooking and/or digestive enzymes, so many critics argue that the number of lectins absorbed through the digestive system is minimal.

Ideas are rooted in evolutionary history, and the observation that different blood types (Type O, Type A, Type B, and Type AB) emerged as the environmental conditions and eating styles of our ancestors changed. According to The Blood Type Diet, our ancestors' successful adaptation to environmental changes hinged on the relationship between diet and blood type and as a result, the key to optimal health is to eat as our ancestors with the same blood type ate. Each of the four blood types has a very detailed list of foods that must be avoided.

Type O was the blood type of the earliest humans, who were hunters and relied on a diet of wild game and plants. As a result, if you have Type O blood, you should basically stick to a high protein diet (including red meat), low carbohydrates, and enriched with fruits and vegetables and you are encouraged to eat lean beef, lamb, turkey, chicken, and seafood. You should limit the intake of whole wheat products, corn, and avoid dairy products and most nuts.

People with Type A blood are believed to thrive on a plant-based diet, and should consume large amounts of vegetables, fruits, lentils, soy beans (and soy products), pinto beans, black beans and whole grains. According to this diet, if you have Type A blood, you should not consume dairy products, animal fats and meats.

The diet for individuals with Type B blood is more varied than the other blood type diets and is more balanced. If you have Type B blood, you are encouraged to eat seafood, beef, lamb, and dairy products. Oats and millet, green vegetables, and all fruits are beneficial.

Those with Type AB blood should consume a mostly vegetarian diet, and only on rare occasions some fish, meat (no chicken), cultured dairy products (yogurt and sour cream), eggs, rice and tofu.

Many people follow this diet to improve their overall level of health. Although weight loss is not the focus of the diet, according to the theory, weight loss is a natural consequence of following a diet tailored to your blood type.