Examining the Blood Type Diet Recommendations for AB+
The blood type diet, popularized by naturopath Peter D'Adamo, is based on the idea that a person's blood type dictates which foods they should eat and avoid to optimize health. The theory posits that proteins called lectins in incompatible foods can negatively interact with specific blood type antigens, leading to health problems. However, it is crucial to understand that reputable scientific reviews have found no evidence to support these claims. For those curious about the specifics of the diet for AB+ individuals, a number of foods are recommended for limitation or avoidance based on the theory.
Meats to Avoid or Limit
Individuals with blood type AB are believed to have a more complex digestive system, combining traits of both A and B types. The theory suggests they have low stomach acid, making it harder to metabolize certain meats.
Meats to limit or avoid include:
- Chicken: The diet considers chicken problematic for type AB, despite it being a common source of lean protein.
- Beef and pork: Due to perceived low stomach acid, red meats like beef and pork are recommended to be consumed in very limited quantities.
- Smoked and cured meats: The diet advises against processed and cured meats, such as sausage, bacon, and smoked salmon.
Certain Grains and Legumes to Sidestep
Some grains and legumes are also flagged for AB+ types in the blood type diet due to perceived lectin incompatibility.
- Corn: Corn and corn-based products are frequently mentioned as a food to avoid for AB+ individuals.
- Buckwheat: The diet suggests that buckwheat can be problematic for those with AB blood.
- Kidney Beans: Red kidney beans are another legume specifically listed for avoidance.
- Other beans: Some variations also mention avoiding adzuki and lima beans.
Beverages and Dairy to Watch Out For
- Caffeine and alcohol: Both are on the list of items to avoid according to the blood type diet theory for AB+ individuals.
- Whole milk: While some dairy is considered beneficial, whole milk is generally advised against.
- Black tea: The diet lists black tea as a beverage to avoid.
The Lack of Scientific Consensus
It is critical to contrast the unproven claims of the blood type diet with the overwhelming scientific evidence. Numerous studies have failed to validate the diet's central thesis.
- A comprehensive 2013 review in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no evidence to support the purported health benefits of the blood type diet.
- A 2014 study found that while some individuals experienced health improvements, these effects were independent of blood type and likely due to the generally healthier food choices involved.
- Health improvements observed by followers often come from simply eating more whole, unprocessed foods and fewer processed items, which is widely recognized as good dietary practice for everyone.
This means that any benefits experienced by following the blood type diet are not caused by blood type-specific food interactions, but rather by the general improvement of one's eating habits.
Blood Type Diet (D'Adamo's Theory) vs. Conventional Nutritional Science
| Feature | Blood Type Diet (D'Adamo's Theory) | Conventional Nutritional Science |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Claims that blood type determines optimal diet based on evolutionary history and lectin interactions. | Recommends a balanced diet based on extensive research into general human nutrition and individual health needs. |
| Specifics for AB+ | Recommends avoiding or limiting chicken, corn, kidney beans, and processed meats due to low stomach acid and lectin reactivity. | Recommends a balanced intake of lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, emphasizing variety. |
| Scientific Evidence | None. Multiple systematic reviews have concluded there is no scientific basis for the diet. | Strong. Backed by decades of peer-reviewed research, clinical trials, and epidemiological studies. |
| Explanation for Health Benefits | Attributed to eliminating 'incompatible' foods and specific lectins. | Any observed health improvements are attributed to replacing processed foods with whole foods, not blood type-specific food matching. |
| Primary Recommendation | Follow specific food lists tailored to your blood type. | Follow a balanced diet, focusing on whole foods, and consult a doctor or dietitian for personalized needs. |
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach is Key
While the blood type diet offers a specific list of what should AB+ not eat, the lack of scientific evidence means these guidelines should not be followed blindly. Instead of focusing on your blood type, a far more effective strategy for improving your health is to embrace a balanced, varied diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, regardless of blood type. Reducing or eliminating processed foods, excessive caffeine, and alcohol is a generally sound nutritional practice for everyone. Before making any significant dietary changes, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. For further reading on the scientific debunking of the blood type diet, consider exploring the research summary by the British Dietetic Association.
Note: The recommendations in this article that are specific to blood types are based on the unproven theories of Peter D'Adamo and should not be considered medical or nutritional advice.
What Should AB+ Not Eat? - A Quick Summary
- Chicken and Red Meat: D'Adamo's theory advises limiting or avoiding chicken, beef, and pork due to perceived low stomach acid.
- Corn and Buckwheat: These are singled out as potentially problematic grains based on the unproven lectin theory.
- Processed Foods: Smoked and cured meats, and other highly processed items, are generally discouraged for AB+ types.
- Specific Beans: The diet suggests avoiding certain beans, particularly kidney and fava beans.
- Caffeine and Alcohol: Recommended for avoidance within the blood type diet framework.
Author's Note: Remember that scientific consensus does not support the blood type diet, and general healthy eating principles are more beneficial for everyone.
