(title)

Some people say that people can biologically benefit from eating certain foods based on their blood type. But is this just a way for people to steer others towards specific food items based on agricultural availability, or is this concept potentially revolutionary?

The blood type diet states that in order for the body to function at maximum efficiency, people should eat and avoid certain foods, and even activities, based on their blood type.

Type A people should consume a vegetarian diet free of dairy and wheat. Type B people should focus meals around vegetables, eggs and uncured meats while avoiding most grains and lentils. Type AB people should focus on seafood, greens and dairy while avoiding caffeine and chicken. Type O people should consume lots of animal protein while avoiding dairy and beans.

The “founding father” of the blood type diet is Peter J D’Adamo, a registered natural doctor (ND). In 1990 D’Adamo was awarded the title “Physician of the Year” by The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians for the years of his medical career spent creating and studying blood diet concept. Since then D’Adamo has written books such as “Eat Right 4 Your Type” and “Live Right 4 Your Type,” that aim to help people achieve health and wellness through diet and lifestyle changes. According to D’Adamo’s website, critics have praised him for conducting research that delineates the “simple logic that is the diet’s foundation.”

Since D’Adamo’s studies and claims, there have been many physicians who ventured to find the truth. One 2018 study done by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition stands out when assessing the validity of the theory. The study closely monitored the cardiovascular status, waistline and overall health of 1,000 individuals with all blood types who strictly ate the specific diets outlines by D’Adamo and followed specific activity regimens.

The study found that each person, regardless of blood type, benefited from switching to A and B diets, most likely because they place emphasis on fruits and vegetables rather than high fat meals. It further concluded that there was no pattern based on blood type and improvement in biomarkers, disproving D’Adamo’s claims.

While it may seem comforting to think that simply adjusting your diet to align with predetermined “blood type” foods will allow your body to function better, it’s not so black and white. There are many other factors to consider when adjusting your lifestyle.

Editor’s Note: The Pioneer is not responsible for giving medical advice. Please refer to a medical professional for serious concerns regarding personal health.