Some people claim that eating a vegetarian diet can help those with type A blood lose weight, improve digestion, and boost well-being. However, no research currently supports this.
The A blood type diet involves consuming a vegetarian diet. Followers of the diet avoid eating meat, fish, and seafood.
While weight loss is possible with the diet due to focusing on fruits and vegetables, there is no indication that it is particularly beneficial for people with type A blood.
Read on for more information about the A blood type diet, whether it works, and more.
The theory of the blood type diet dates back to 1996. It was created by Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo, who suggested that following a certain eating plan can help with:
- weight loss
- improving digestion
- boosting overall well-being
D’Adamo described different diets based on a person’s blood type. For blood type A, the theory suggests that people should focus on consuming a vegetarian diet, while avoiding eating meat, fish and seafood.
This compares with the blood type B and AB diets, which involve eating both plant and animal products, and the blood type 0 diet, which is mostly plant based with some lean meats.
There is currently no evidence to suggest that the A blood type diet works.
A 2021 study found that there was no link between a person’s blood type and their body weight or body fat when following a plant-based diet.
While a plant based diet is different from a vegetarian diet, the study suggests that following a plant-based diet for blood type 0 has no additional health improvements compared with the benefits of the diet for people with type A blood.
According to a 2022 article, people who are vegetarian and follow the A blood type diet typically consume:
- fruits
- vegetables
- tofu
- whole grains
People following the diet avoid consuming all meat products.
It is best to contact a doctor if a person has concerns about weight loss, their digestive heath, or other purported benefits of the A blood type diet.
Their doctor can provide information about foods to eat and avoid that may be more beneficial.
A registered dietitian can help create a suitable eating plan based on the individual’s own circumstances and health goals.
The A blood type diet involves consuming a vegetarian diet and avoiding meat and fish. Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo first wrote about the diet in 1996, suggesting that it could help with achieving weight loss and boosting well-being.
However, there is no research to support any of the claimed benefits of the blood type diets.
If a person is considering the blood type A diet or making other changes to their eating habits, it is best to contact their doctor or a registered dietitian for advice.