Blood Type Diet

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Based on the popular book Eating Right for Your Type by Dr Peter J D’Amato, the blood type diet entered the weight loss diet scene about 10 years ago. The diet touts genetic backing, but does it really work?

The Blood Type Diet

Everyone has one of four basic blood types, O, A, B and AB. Dr D’Amato believes that “blood type is the key that unlocks the door to the mysteries of health, disease, longevity, physical vitality and emotional strength” Dr D’Amato has developed a diet to go with each blood type. In his book Eat Right for Your Type Dr D’Amato makes the following diet suggestions.

Type O: This diet recommends increasing the intake of lean, chemical-free meats, poultry and fish. It also recommends decreasing dairy products and grains. For weight loss it is suggested to restrict the consumption of grains, breads, legumes and beans and focus on intense physical activity.
Type A: This diet promotes a vegetarian diet that centers on foods that are fresh and organic. For weight loss eliminate meats, and toxic foods from the diet.
Type B: This diet should be balanced and wholesome. It should include a wide variety of foods. For weight loss corn, buckwheat, lentils, peanuts and sesame seeds should be avoided. Moderate physical exercise is recommended.
Type AB: This diet is a combination of the A and B diets. Most foods that are avoided on the type A and type B diets should be restricted. For weight loss it is suggested to eat only small amounts of meat that can be supplemented with vegetables and tofu. A combination of the exercises for types A and B is advised.

Who is Dr Peter J. D’Amato?

He is a naturopathic physician. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine defines naturopathic medicine as a whole medical system that aims to support the body’s ability to heal itself through the use of dietary and lifestyle changes together with complementary and alternative medicine therapies such as herbs, massage and joint manipulation.

Dr D’Adamo has been practicing for over 20 years. He has written multiple books on the Blood Type Diet. He has also done research on human blood groups, nutrition, and the field of natural products. Dr. D’Adamo founded the Institute for Human Individuality in 2003.

What Does the Research say About the Blood Type Diet?

While many literature papers, all written by Dr. D’Amato, are available there are currently no clinical studies to provide data to determine if the diet is credible. Poleszynski stated in an article in the Norwegian that based on literature by Dr D’Adamo, the doctor is mistaken on certain points and vague on others. While his general theory seems to be based on scientific studies, more testing and clinical research needs to be done.
Although many testimonials of the success of the diet are available, there is no clinical proof that the Blood type diet is a viable diet program. While the basis of each of the diets is not harmful, a person following the diet should take care to make sure to follow a balanced diet that includes foods from all food groups. A person should also be aware that Dr D’Amato promotes expensive nutrition supplements that may be unnecessary.