How Your Blood Type Affects Your Health
Your blood type is inherited from your parents and falls into one of four main groups: A, B, AB, or O — known as the ABO system. These types are defined by antigens on red blood cells, which influence how your body responds to diseases.
Health Risks by Blood Type:
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Pancreatic Cancer: People with A, B, or AB types have a higher risk due to certain bacteria (like H. pylori) that thrive in their bodies.
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Heart Disease & Erectile Dysfunction: A, B, and AB types are more likely to have “stickier” blood, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and erectile issues. Type O has lower clotting protein levels, offering some protection.
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Infections: Type O blood provides some protection against severe malaria, but may be more prone to group A strep infections.
The Blood Type Diet: Dr. Peter D’Adamo’s Eat Right 4 Your Type suggests diets based on ancestral links to each blood type:
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Type A: Plant-based, avoid red meat.
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Type B: Balanced, avoid chicken, corn, and wheat.
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Type AB: Mix of A and B, avoid caffeine and alcohol.
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Type O: High-protein (meat, fish), avoid grains and dairy.
While intriguing, the blood type diet isn’t backed by strong scientific evidence, but many people find it useful as a general guide.