Should We Eat For Our Blood Type? These Celebrities Certainly Think So

Though this type of eating may seem like a mere eyebrow-raising headline, it actually isn’t: eating according to blood type has existed since 1996, with evidence that suggests there are benefits to be reaped by doing so.

Made popular by naturopathic physician Dr. Peter D’Adamo through his New York Times bestseller, Eat Right 4 Your Type, the blood type diet or group diet encourages people to eat only certain foods. Sticking to such a diet, according to Dr. D’Adamo’s book, can help individuals lose weight and feel healthier. That and it’s also known to reduce the risk of many diseases. Model Miranda Kerr has been following the diet since 2010, as does Hailey Baldwin (Bieber) who confirmed this during an interview with Women’s Health. Here’s a breakdown: 

 

• The Hunter or O blood type: high-protein. This means lean meat, poultry, fish, and select fruits and vegetables. Dairy, legumes, and grains are consumed in moderation, if at all. 

 

• The Cultivator or A blood type: vegetarian. This means a plant-rich diet (vegetables, fruit, legumes and whole grains) with no meat at all. 

 

• The Nomad or B blood type: can eat both plants (green vegetables) and meat (with the exception of pork and chicken), eggs, and low fat dairy. However, some foods to avoid are chicken, wheat, corn, peanuts, and tomatoes to name a few. 

 

• The Enigma or the AB blood type: can eat a bit like the A and B blood types—dairy, beans, tofu, grains, green vegetables, and seafood. A big no to the following though: chicken, beef, corn, and kidney beans. 

 

But how does it work? The diet claims that our blood type actually determines how different nutrients are broken down and absorbed by our bodies. It has something to do with each blood group having its own antigen marker—the process in which the body recognizes something foreign and new—and that said marker can react to certain foods. As a result, eating outside of your group can impact your health in a negative way. 

The good news is, based on the types of food that this diet encourages people to eat and the lack of processed food plus the emphasis on natural ones (like fruits and vegetables), means you’ll definitely be eating healthy. But as in every diet that you want to try, if you want to make sure that it’s right for you and that you’ll be getting the most out of it, it’s best to check with a professional: see a dietitian if you must!