Eating for your blood type is controversial, but vegetables are best for type A blood.
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The idea that you should choose your foods based on your blood type is controversial. The Blood Type Diet theory was popularized by naturopathic physician Peter D'Adamo after his study of genetics, medical history and anthropology. However, others in the medical community cite a lack of independent research to back his claims about a link between health and the compatibility of foods with each of the four major blood types.
Blood Type Theory
D'Adamo argues that the antigens that determine which blood type we have also affect how our bodies digest food proteins called lectins. He says eating the right foods can make you feel better, while eating the wrong foods can contribute to weight gain and a host of health problems. The foods that he says are best for each blood type are based on when that blood type evolved in human history and the types of foods being eaten by early man at that time.
Type A Foods
If you're shopping for Type A meals, head to a farmer's market or the produce section of your local grocery store. D'Adamo recommends a vegetarian-style diet for Type A's because he says this blood type evolved during more settled, agrarian times in human history. A type-A grocery list would include plenty of fruits and vegetables that are "fresh, pure and organic" to suit a Type A's more sensitive immune system. Grains, nuts and seeds are good, too. In addition, D'Adamo says Type A's thrive on calming exercises, such as yoga and tai chi.
Most Beneficial
When it comes to vegetables, garlic, onions, broccoli, carrots, collard greens, kale, pumpkin, spinach, artichokes, chicory, greens, okra, parsley, alfalfa sprouts, tempeh, tofu and turnips should be on the shopping list. Berries, plums, prunes, figs, pineapples, cherries, apricots, grapefruit and lemons are among the best fruits for Type A's. The most beneficial grains are listed as amaranth and buckwheat. Peanuts and pumpkin seeds are on the most beneficial list, along with flaxseed and olive oils. The most beneficial seafood include carp, cod, grouper, red snapper, rainbow trout, salmon, sardines and whitefish.
Foods to Avoid
If you're trying to follow the Blood Type Diet, D'Adamo also lists foods that are not beneficial for each of the blood types. If you have type-A blood, stay out of the meat and dairy sections of the store. These protein-rich foods are on the "avoid" list for Type A's. Poultry and eggs should be avoided, too. Animal foods are said to slow the metabolism of people with type A blood. D'Adamo recommends that everyone avoid processed foods, regardless of blood type.
FAQs
Those with type A blood should choose fruit, vegetables, tofu, seafood, turkey, and whole grains but avoid meat. For weight loss, seafood, vegetables, pineapple, olive oil, and soy are best; dairy, wheat, corn, and kidney beans should be avoided.
Are eggs good for blood type A? ›
What diet is best for people with A+ blood type? The diet recommends eating protein at the start of the day. Canned sardines or a smoothie made with silken tofu and goat milk may be a good option. Limited amounts of animal protein, such as turkey and eggs, are allowed on this diet plan.
Is oatmeal good for blood type A? ›
Blood Group: A
You should be largely vegetarian and follow a high carbohydrate, low fat diet. They should eat lots of rice, oats, rye, pasta, pumpkin, seeds, peanuts, apricots, figs, lemons, raisins, buckwheat, wheat, soy foods, walnuts, garlic, mushroom, pine apple, blueberries, ginger and green tea.
What cheese can blood type A eat? ›
Digesting dairy is allegedly difficult for people with type A blood, but certain types of dairy may be acceptable, including: yogurt. kefir. cheeses, including mozzarella, feta, goat cheese, ricotta, and string cheese.
Are bananas good for blood type A? ›
A Blood Type – Foods to Avoid
Also if you're a fan of beer, liquor and soda, you may need to cut back on that as well, as they don't support the immune system for Type A blood. Tropical fruits such as coconuts, papaya, bananas, and orange may irritate the stomach and cause digestive problems.
What is the best breakfast for blood type A? ›
On the blood type diet, a good breakfast if you're type A is whole-grain cereal, such as steel-cut oatmeal, along with fresh mixed fruit. Typical snacks for type A are foods such as fruit, nuts, seeds, rice cakes and peanut butter. For lunch, it's typical to have a large, hearty salad with lots of fresh vegetables.
Is peanut butter good for type A blood? ›
Why is peanut a poison for Type A, while peanuts and peanut butter are highly beneficial? Blood group A in general has higher levels of cholesterol and significantly higher rates of heart disease. Peanut oil, while relatively unsaturated, is surprisingly atherogenic (causes atery plaque formation).
What meat is best for blood type A? ›
According to Dr. D'Adamo's BTD, all four blood types can eat meat. However, the recommended diet for type A is mostly vegetarian and only recommends poultry and fish, while the type O diet is mostly animal protein-based.
Is Tuna good for blood type A? ›
Neutral seafood for blood type A is shark, beluga, sea snail, swordfish, pike, tuna fish.
What is the best cereal for blood type A? ›
Grains and Cereals
Incorporating grains like quinoa, brown rice, amaranth, buckwheat, and oats into your blood type A diet provides sustained energy, supports digestion, and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.
In terms of supplements, Vitamin B12 is important especially since the Type A diet is low on animal proteins. As mentioned before, Vitamin C as well as E is important in protecting against stomach cancer and heart disease. Calcium, iron and small amount of zinc are helpful supplements.
What pasta can blood type A eat? ›
Rotini or penne pasta [BTD compliant]
What exercises are good for blood type A? ›
Type A – The Intellectual
People within this blood group function mostly on nervous energy. They have an inclination to utilize more psychological energy in their workout. The best exercises for this group are calisthenics, yoga jogging, tai chi, light swimming, gymnastics and hiking.
Can type A eat watermelon? ›
(AVOID): Bananas, Coconut, Mangoes, Melon (cantaloupe, honeydew), Oranges, Papayas, Plantains, Rhubarb, Tangerines.
What is the best diet for type A blood? ›
Group A people should consider vegetarian food because your stomach produces too little digestive enzymes so it cannot handle meat very well. There is a higher risk of cancer among Group A than other groups. Some diet techniques to lose weight include: Eat fish, such as mackerel and salmon, to boost your protein level.
What's special about a+ blood? ›
You Have the Power To Save Lives
Your platelets are the most powerful part of your A+ blood. Platelets can be donated as often as every seven days, recommended every 14, and up to 24 times a year. Platelets are in high demand by hospitals and help cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
What drinks are good for blood type A? ›
For Blood Type As, the health benefits of green tea are synergistically combined with those of licorice root, carefully balanced with tangy notes from rosehips and sweetened with natural pineapple flavor. Dr. D'Adamo's tea is specifically crafted to harmonize with Blood Type A and support your individual well-being.
What is the healthiest blood type? ›
Of the eight main blood types, people with Type O have the lowest risk for heart attacks and blood clots in the legs and lungs. This may be because people with other blood types have higher levels of certain clotting factors, which are proteins that cause blood to coagulate (solidify).
