Can Any Blood Type Eat Chicken? The Facts Behind the Fad

December 1, 2025 •

3 min read

A 2013 review in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no scientific evidence to support the claims made by the blood type diet, a theory that suggests your blood type determines which foods you can eat. This article explores the validity of the blood type diet's specific claims, particularly regarding which blood type can eat chicken, and provides factual information on how to make informed dietary choices.

Quick Summary

This article examines the unproven blood type diet theory, which claims certain foods like chicken are harmful for specific blood types. It presents the scientific consensus that blood type is not a determinant of dietary needs, debunking popular misconceptions about food compatibility. Instead, it advocates for a balanced diet based on established nutritional principles. The information helps readers navigate dietary trends with accurate, evidence-based knowledge.

Key Points

Blood Type Diet Lacks Scientific Proof: There is no scientific evidence to support the blood type diet, with multiple reviews confirming the theory is unsubstantiated.
Chicken Is Healthy for All: Scientifically, chicken is a lean protein source and a healthy addition to a balanced diet for individuals of any blood type.
Dietary Improvements Are General: Any health benefits from following the blood type diet are likely due to the emphasis on whole foods and reduced processed foods, not blood-type-specific rules.
Type B Restriction is Unfounded: The claim that type B individuals should avoid chicken due to specific lectins is a key part of the unsupported blood type diet theory.
Personal Needs Matter More Than Blood Type: Age, health status, activity level, and personal preference are far more important factors in determining a healthy diet than one's blood type.
Consult a Professional: For personalized and safe dietary advice, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.
Focus on Variety: A balanced and varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is the foundation of evidence-based nutrition.

The Origins and Theory of the Blood Type Diet

The blood type diet, popularized by Peter J. D'Adamo, suggests that your blood type dictates your ideal diet, based on the supposed diets of ancient ancestors. The theory posits that specific proteins (lectins) in certain foods can negatively interact with blood type antigens. For example, Type O is linked to a meat-heavy diet, Type A to a vegetarian one, Type B to a mixed diet with some restrictions (like chicken), and Type AB as a combination.

Blood Type and Chicken: What the Theory Recommends

According to D'Adamo's theory, the compatibility of chicken varies by blood type:

Type O: Allowed as part of a high-protein diet.
Type A: Permitted as a limited poultry option within a mostly vegetarian diet.
Type B: Should be avoided, as the theory claims chicken contains an incompatible lectin.
Type AB: Recommendations are mixed, sometimes suggesting avoidance similar to type B, other times allowing it in moderation.

The Scientific Reality: No Link Between Blood Type and Diet

Scientific research does not support the blood type diet. A 2013 review found no evidence for its claimed benefits. The idea that food lectins harmfully interact with blood types is unsubstantiated by research. While some raw lectins can cause issues, cooking neutralizes most, and they aren't blood-type-specific. A study showed health improvements observed in those following blood type diets were independent of blood type, likely due to generally healthier food choices.

Comparative Analysis of Blood Type Diet vs. Evidence-Based Nutrition

| Feature | Blood Type Diet | Evidence-Based Nutrition | | Focus | Prescriptive based on blood type; often restrictive. | Balanced, flexible; considers individual needs, preferences, and health goals. | | Role of Chicken | Restricted for some blood types (e.g., B, potentially AB). | Lean source of protein, recommended for most healthy diets. | | Scientific Basis | Lacks robust scientific evidence; considered a fad diet. | Supported by extensive research and consensus among dietitians and medical professionals. | | Health Benefits | Attributed to blood-type compatibility, but benefits likely from overall healthier eating. | Linked directly to a balanced intake of all food groups, not elimination based on blood type. | | Risks | Potential for nutritional deficiencies due to restrictive nature (e.g., avoiding dairy for type O). | Minimizes risk by promoting variety and consulting healthcare professionals. |

The Role of Chicken in a Balanced Diet

Scientifically, chicken is a valuable source of lean protein for most individuals, regardless of blood type. It provides essential amino acids, B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium. Choosing skinless chicken breast is a way to limit saturated fat.

General Dietary Recommendations

Instead of blood type diets, health experts recommend evidence-based guidelines:

Prioritize whole foods: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are key.
Limit processed foods: Reduce intake of foods high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium.
Eat a variety of foods: This ensures a wide range of nutrients.
Consider individual factors: Age, gender, activity level, health status, and preferences are crucial for dietary planning.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Chicken and Blood Type

The claim that certain blood types cannot eat chicken is part of the blood type diet, a theory not supported by science. Multiple studies have found no evidence to validate its claims. Chicken is a healthy protein source suitable for most diets, regardless of blood type. For reliable dietary advice, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can consider your individual needs.

Resources for Evidence-Based Nutrition

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can eat chicken regardless of your blood type. The theory that your blood type determines which foods you can eat is not supported by scientific evidence. Chicken is a lean source of protein that is suitable for most healthy diets.

No, the blood type diet lacks scientific basis. Multiple scientific reviews, including one in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2013, have concluded that there is no evidence to support the diet's health claims.

The blood type diet theory claims that people with blood type B should avoid chicken because it contains a lectin that supposedly reacts negatively with their blood type. However, this claim is not backed by scientific research.

According to the blood type diet theory, blood type O individuals are 'hunters' who thrive on a high-protein, meat-based diet. However, this historical premise is part of the overall unproven theory and is not supported by mainstream nutritional science.

Any health improvements experienced while following the blood type diet are likely due to the fact that the diet encourages eating more whole foods, like fruits and vegetables, and less processed food, which benefits overall health for everyone.

When planning your diet, focus on evidence-based nutritional guidelines. Consider factors such as your age, gender, activity level, personal health needs, and any existing medical conditions. A registered dietitian can provide personalized and safe dietary advice.

The idea that lectins in chicken are harmful specifically to certain blood types, like B or AB, is unfounded. The majority of lectins in food are either destroyed by cooking or have no known blood-type-specific effect on the body.