The Theory Behind the AB Blood Type Diet
The blood type diet is a dietary concept based on the idea that a person's blood type (A, B, AB, or O) should determine their food choices. For those with AB blood, the diet borrows principles from both the Type A and Type B diets, suggesting a versatile but specific eating plan. Key theoretical considerations for Type AB individuals include having naturally low stomach acid, which can make digesting meat more challenging, and a combination of tolerances and predispositions from both Type A and Type B ancestors. This theory, however, has faced significant criticism from the scientific and medical communities, as there is a lack of high-quality, peer-reviewed evidence to support its claims. Any health benefits observed are likely due to adopting a healthier, less processed diet overall, rather than being linked to blood type.
Scientific Perspective on the Blood Type Diet
It is important to understand that the blood type diet is not supported by mainstream medical science. A 2013 review published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found no evidence to validate the diet's purported health benefits. A subsequent study in 2014 did find some cardiometabolic improvements in people following the diets, but concluded that these benefits were independent of blood type and likely a result of following a healthier, more restrictive meal plan. Before making any significant dietary changes, it is always recommended to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional.
Food Recommendations for the AB Blood Type
For those who wish to follow the principles of the AB blood type diet, the plan is more vegetarian-based than the Type O diet, yet more diverse than the Type A diet. The recommendations below reflect the guidelines set forth by proponents of the diet.
Beneficial Foods
- Proteins: Lamb, turkey, and rabbit are considered beneficial. For seafood, options like tuna, cod, mackerel, and trout are recommended.
- Dairy: A variety of dairy products are suggested, including yogurt, kefir, and certain cheeses like mozzarella and feta. Eggs are also considered beneficial.
- Beans and Legumes: Lentils, navy beans, pinto beans, and red soy beans are good sources of protein and fiber.
- Grains: Rice is a preferred grain over wheat. Options include brown rice, puffed rice, millet, and oats.
- Vegetables: Many vegetables are encouraged, such as broccoli, cucumber, cauliflower, kale, and garlic.
- Fruits: Cherries, plums, grapes, kiwi, and berries are considered beneficial.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
Due to the lower stomach acid levels associated with Type AB, proponents of the diet suggest limiting or avoiding certain foods.
- Meats: Red meat like beef and pork are discouraged, as are smoked or cured meats, which proponents claim can be linked to a higher risk of stomach cancer. Chicken is also advised against.
- Grains: Wheat and corn are often mentioned as foods to avoid.
- Legumes: Kidney beans, lima beans, and black-eyed peas should be avoided.
- Seeds: Sesame and sunflower seeds are on the avoidance list.
- Fruits: Bananas, mangoes, coconuts, and oranges are suggested to be avoided.
- Beverages: Caffeine and alcohol should be consumed with caution.
Comparison Table: AB Blood Type Food Groups
| Food Group | Beneficial | Neutral | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meat | Lamb, Mutton, Rabbit, Turkey | Goat | Beef, Chicken, Pork, Smoked Meats |
| Seafood | Cod, Mackerel, Trout, Sardine | Salmon, Swordfish, Sole | Anchovy, Halibut, Lobster, Shrimp |
| Dairy | Yogurt, Kefir, Goat Milk/Cheese | Cheddar, Swiss, Feta | American Cheese, Butter, Ice Cream |
| Grains | Rice (all types), Millet, Oats | Spelt, Barley | Buckwheat, Cornflakes, Kamut |
| Legumes | Lentils, Navy Beans, Pinto Beans | Soybeans | Kidney Beans, Lima Beans, Fava Beans |
| Vegetables | Broccoli, Cucumber, Kale, Garlic | Carrots, Tomatoes, Spinach | Corn, Black Olives, Peppers |
| Fruits | Plums, Grapes, Berries, Kiwi | Apples, Apricots, Peaches | Bananas, Coconuts, Mangoes, Oranges |
Sample Meal Ideas for AB Blood Type
- Breakfast: Egg and banana pancakes, yogurt with berries and walnuts, or oatmeal with a handful of plums.
- Lunch: A salad topped with grilled tuna or tofu and an olive oil vinaigrette, or leftover lamb with steamed vegetables.
- Dinner: Pumpkin lentil dal, turkey stir-fry with rice and assorted vegetables, or baked cod with roasted broccoli.
- Snacks: Plain yogurt, rice cakes, a handful of walnuts or peanuts, or a mix of recommended fruits.
Lifestyle Considerations
In addition to dietary suggestions, the AB blood type plan includes lifestyle recommendations. Proponents suggest a mix of calming, spiritual exercises and moderate aerobic activity. Regular physical activity, such as cycling, swimming, yoga, or tai chi, is advised to help relieve stress and support overall health. Combining a balanced diet with regular exercise is a well-established path to wellness, regardless of blood type.
Conclusion
The AB blood type diet offers specific recommendations for dietary choices, drawing from principles of the A and B blood group diets. It proposes an eating plan focused on a semi-vegetarian mix of vegetables, seafood, dairy, and moderate meat, while avoiding certain processed items and specific foods thought to be incompatible. It is crucial to remember that this diet is based on a theory with limited scientific backing. For anyone considering a significant dietary change, prioritizing a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, staying physically active, and consulting a healthcare provider or dietitian are the most reliable strategies for maintaining good health. More research is needed to determine the validity of the blood type diet as a reliable health tool.
