Archives for: January 2001

Mosquitos, root canals, flax ~ the smell of cancer? and a note for Cyndi

January 27th, 2001 , by admin



Heidi, thank you for your comments about my son. In my last email I added some symptoms he has that I hadn't realized (numb feet, legs and hands, prickly in other parts of the body, dizziness, nausea) when I first wrote to you. I was wondering if this added information modified the approach you had recomended I take with him. Does it call for anything different than what we were going to start with? I don't have the faintest idea what these manifestations imply. I still am going to propose the methylcobalamin and cortigard, per your suggestion, and see if I can get him to knock off the sweets and dairy. And add the beneficial vegies and fruits. The symptoms he mentioned are scary to him, and no wonder! Could they be part of an irritated nervous system, with B12 deficiency part of the picture? I think we had already covered how to deal with the intestinal pain and cramping. Best, Cyndi

Hello, Cyndi ~ Yes, in fact a range of B vitamins (nutritional yeast in a smoothie or juice) should be taken daily, along with calcium and magnesium supplementation until his numbness, prickliness and dizziness recede. What does his doctor say? In a few months, he may be grateful for the "scary symptoms" through which his body got a message to him in time to avoid serious illness. Hang in there, and keep me posted, Cyndi! :-)




Hi Heidi! Mosquito season is upon us and after my husband pronounced that I must taste good to them since I (B) get bitten, along with my sons (AB), and he doesn't (A), I suggested that perhaps since they suck blood, they like the sugars in B blood more than A. Have you heard anything similar, or am I taking the BTD concept too far, as he thought? Ann

Hey there, Ann ~ I don't know that you're taking it too far... you may just be ahead of your time! :-) We had hugely long discussions about bitable BTs on the message board of yore, but in the end it appears that all types are equally subject to the pesky little suckers, and that the classic recommendations of using physical means to block them are still among the best. I've found that pure citronella oil does a lovely job of repelling most biting insects, so I always carry a little bottle of it with me when entering skeeter-infested territory (or seasons) and dab it about me at will. Good luck, and if I hear anything of note on the flying-pest front, I'll post it here. ;-)




I am responding to Rose regarding root canals. I strongly support your switch to a mercury-free dentist, but I would like to bring to your attention some disturbing information regarding root canals.

Dr. George Meinig has written a book called Root Canal Coverup, which describes in detail why no one should have a root canal. Dr. Meinig was a founder of the American Association of Endodontics and is recognized as a pioneer in developing the root canal procedure, so I give his opinion significant weight.

Basically, Meinig found that, even with today's technology, there is no way to ensure that a root canaled tooth is free of bacteria before it is sealed, and there is also no way to prevent a root canaled tooth from leaking in the future. The result is that the tooth (which is a dead tooth) accumulates deadly toxins in its cavity, which leak through the canal to all parts of the body, causing systemic disease. Only a strong immune system can keep such infections at bay.

He has reams of research to back up his conclusions, and is basically apologizing for having foisted such a dangerous procedure on the public (the alternative procedure is extraction, and a bridge replacement with compatible ceramic materials). While having all of my metal removed (O-, ns), one tooth nerve was damaged. Rather than have a root canal, I had the tooth pulled after reading Meinig. The book is availbale on Amazon and also from the Price-Pottinger Foundation (http://www.price-pottenger.org/Books/root_canal_coverup.htm). RM

Roy, thanks for that! I hadn't considered that amalgam removal could entail nerve damage, necessitating tooth removal and bridges. A warning to everyone to take excellent care of their, and their children's, teeth, since remedies for the use of amalgam carry their own additional risks. It's heartening that Dr. Meinig has publicized the dangers of root canals. And I truly appreciate your effort in bringing this issue to our attention ~ thanks again! :-)




Please ask Dr. D'Adamo if I should be concerned about taking Flaxseed oil, I am type O+, because on May 19, 2003 he said (The lignans in flaxseed oil appears to influence the growth of breast cancer largely through blocking the enzyme aromatase) I know it is good for me, but my Mother died of breast cancer. How much should I take every day. Thanking you in advance. Joan Pesek

Hi, Joan ~ You shouldn't be concerned about taking flax oil; blocking aromatase is a good thing, not a bad thing. In other words, the "influence" Peter mentioned is an influence *against* cancer cell growth. However, the footnoted article on rat mammary gland structures is one that I can't access.

Flax oil/seed is not listed in the cancer prevention protocols in the Encyclopedia, so there's no specific dosage I can offer you, but Peter did say at the end of that Ask Dr. D.: "Adding at least one tablespoon of properly processed flaxseed oil to our diets on a daily basis can significantly add to the proper balance because flaxseed oil has a 1:3 omega-6 to omega-3 ratio." I would add, a high-lignan oil would be a good choice. Best wishes, dear! :-D




Dear Heidi, I have been on the diet for about 3 years now, am 52 years old. I have noticed a smell I don't like, sweetish, tiny bit acrid, so hard to describe. I thought it was a new clothes soap, stopped using it, now am afraid it comes from me. I have heard that cancer can have a smell, have you heard of this? I don't take any hormone treatments, but fit all the risk group profiles for breast cancer. The diet has been a life saver for me in many regards, but I don't want to be stupid about this. I am overweight, about 40 pounds, but a high red belt in tkd. I ski all winter, and I attribute my being able to do this to the eat right diet. I have sweated out toxins before, am hoping this might still be true. I am feeling better than ever, just 'obsessing', as we a types are wont to do, on this smell. Thanks for your attention, Judith

Hey there, Judith! The best response to fear is action. Begin the Cancer Prevention and the Detoxification protocols found in the Encyclopedia. The smell you're noticing could be the result of any one of hundreds of causes, so I'd do those protocols, as well as including fresh fruit and vegetable juice in your diet daily, and see if your smell improves in a few weeks or a month. Detox and fresh juices will also help you lose a bit of weight, if you want to do so. That in turn will also change your body's scent. Is yoga part of your daily routine? It can modulate all the organ-based aspects of this problem.

Apparently, cancer does have a smell, to which some animals seem particularly sensitive. There are plenty of anecdotes which star dolphins, monkeys, even a chihuahua who insistently "pointed out" cancer cells in a human companion ~~ in fact, Cambridge University scientists have proposed a study on the subject. I'm not sure too many humans' sense of smell can be relied upon to detect cancer, so I'd like you to see a good naturopath as well. If you'd like assistance finding one in your area, please let me know! and remember that Peter's clinic will do telephone consultations in a pinch. :-)

Best wishes to you! Don't worry, get active! Let me know how you do!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Hair Loss, Energy AMPamp; Protein ~ Anemia in Celiac ~ Prganic vs. Pesticide-Free ~ and neonatal jaundice !

January 26th, 2001 , by admin



Hi Heidi!! Hope you're doing well over there! My protein deficiency warning bells have been firing over some recent letters, I can't not write in about it! If I write in too much, just tell me & I'll hold back.

Today's reader who wrote about his wife with the hair loss, a lot of nutrient deficiencies can cause that, but people with extremely low protein intake like she seemed to have, they often lose hair. Protein deficiency can also masquerade as thyroid trouble, because temp will be low (metabolism/heat production slows) and weight won't come off, so it's one to check even though thyroid trouble is common.

And Paige, she reminds me of me, three years ago...if you aren't eating hardly any food, you won't have energy til you increase protein. (It'll take more than protein because likely need other nutrients too, but protein is about bottom line survival.) Depression, muscle stiffness, weight that won't come off, fatigue -- all of that, protein deficiency would be enough to cause, though other things could cause it too. If you're very protein deficient there's usually little hunger, just feels like being so very sleepy/dozey that crawling off the couch would be an enormous task. You end up not eating because you haven't the spunk.

I didn't have the energy to cook either, and the only way I could do it was to try to follow the beneficials as much as I could bring myself to, but bottom line, I ate 3 protein shakes a day. I used soy protein, not a beneficial for an O (check secretor status, nons can't), but it was easy to make or buy & digest. If a person is really low on nutrients then meat is hard to digest even for an O because you won't have enough stomach acid. (That makes for a picky eater, the body isn't inclined to eat even good food if it knows it can't digest it.)

Once I increased my protein I felt better, then I could gradually think about cooking & eating better. So wanted to encourage Paige, if I can crawl out of the "too little energy to eat" slump, she can too. But you have to eat even though you're not hungry. (o:Maia

P.S.: Oops on the protein shakes, should have made it clear I ate them in *addition* to the real food I was trying to eat! As a 5'6 1/2" O, I show protein deficiency signs if I don't get 100 grams a day, though people are all different & A's might need less. Below 50 grams, my understanding is any adult is in starvation.

Maia, it is ALWAYS a joy to hear from you, and I'm sure the people who have asked for help are very grateful for your experienced views on these subjects. thanks, my dear, and keep shining (AND writing)! :-)




I am writing in response to GPF's question for his wife about IBS and celiac disease. Yes, you can have either or both without anemia. You can also start with a blood test that tests for the antigens associated with gluten intolerance and celiac without doing a biopsy. Usually, if the blood work comes back positive for an intolerance, the doctors like to do a biopsy to solidify the diagnosis. However, with the symptoms that his wife has, if her blood work came back positive, that would be enough for me.

If she does find out that she has celiac disease, simply not eating the assocaited grains (wheat, rye, barley, maybe oats) may not be enough for her to get well. She may have to be more careful about contamination. For instance, using the same butter to butter her gluten-free toast as someone else used to butter their wheat toast. There is a lot more information on this if you do a search on celiac on the internet. Celiac disease and its symptoms are easily cured by the avoidance of gluten, and there are wonderful support groups to help one understand how to go about this in the beginning. I wish the best for GPF and his wife in their search for good health. Thank you , Heidi, for all the support you give to others. April

April ~~ thank you so much for your expert advice & encouragement! It is most welcome!! :-D




Bonjour Heidi! I'll make this a fairly short and simple question for a change.... I'm entering into the summer season in France when it is very difficult to find organic veggies that fall into the beneficial category for O+ Nonsecretors. I buy my produce at the local market or health food stores, so some is organic, but most is pesticide -free, but not really "organic."

Never see kale or certain other green leafy vegetables any time of year- only one I can find throughout the year is green chard. Spinach during the winter. I try to eat and LOVE brocolli, but it is now only available at the market in the stalls of "imported" produce - maybe from northern France, maybe Spain. Definitely suspect as to pesticides.

Escarole is now finished for the season, so salads are from various neutral lettuce varieties, basil, onions and tomatos. For the moment I can get carrots, so that makes green chard and carrots the only non-salad beneficial veggies I can find, though red peppers will soon be available.

Question is, is it better to eat zucchini and green beans, or other pesticide free veggies than it is to eat suspect brocolli??? Since brocolli is the only cruciferous veggie allowed for O nonnies, I hate to give it up due to the colon (and other) benefits. Hmmmn, so much for being short! Sorry.......

Ooops, forgot another question..... I often see various critters crawling around my produce here. Good sign that is is pesticide-free, but I'm never sure I have washed off all the bugs - I see snails, aphids, ants, tiny worm-like things, etc. Any thoughts on whattado on this issue??? As always, I thank yaou for all your great help. Sending you love, Abby PS. I'll soon let you know what my doctor had to say on the mercury problem, if you think it would be of interest to other readers. Let me know, okay?

Allo, Abby! So nice to hear from you, darlin'!

That "pesticide-free" thing is neat, ain't it? Funny you should write in with these concerns, because today I went shopping at Healthy Pleasures (University Ave. at 11th Street, NYC) instead of LifeThyme. Why? SIX WEEKS OF NO DECENT ONIONS AT ALL!! NO YELLOWS, NO WHITES, NO REDS, NO NOTHING. Just a few sad, swollen, sprouty, soft yellow specimens, sitting there week after week. ARE WE BACK IN THE 60's??? Bryan (a-non) is also fond of zeke-buns with sesame. HOW LONG SINCE THEY'VE HAD THEM? I'VE LOST COUNT. Sorry for shouting, but Jesus Marian Davies, if my lauded HFS to which I've been loyal for ten years can't manage these basic items -- ONIONS, for Heaven's sake?? -- well, HI! I'm off to better hunting grounds.

So there I was, a newcomer in this place (good joint, by the way), and right after my system received the immense shock of seeing red peppers offered at $9.00 (nope, you haven't gone blind, that's USD 9,00) per pound (you know the ones with the very long green HEAVY stems?), I turned to see some "pesticide-free" tomatoes, picked one up, and asked it, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? ARE YOU SECRETLY GMO? SPEAK UP!!!" to the great entertainment of my fellow shoppers who've certainly been wondering about the same thing. Found my zeke buns, found beautiful onions resplendent in four colors, and exchanged a wink with a woman who'd just discovered that each red pepper weighed about one half POUND (that's USD 4,50 to you, oh Mary)!!

Any chance you can get artichokes? They should be abundant in Europe now, all sizes, shapes, colors! No dandelion? Chicory? Your organic grocer should have brought in fiddleheads and spring garlic by this time, as well. What I'd do is talk to the produce manager about broccoli. Ask where the regular variety comes from -- is it clean but uncertified? and whether there is an organic producer anywhere. Express your concerns. In your situation, I'd be hesitant to chow down on it if it's not reasonably free of toxins. But chard, onions and as much neutral veg as you can pack in will be fine for you!

The silver lining in this cloud is that your local markets are forcing you to eat seasonally. This is a very good thing, which frustratingly masquerades as limited choices in the beneficial category. What you're getting in return is food your body senses is "correct" by its natural correlation with temperature and environment. Eating the widest variety of everything and anything available in the neutral category is the best revenge.

Bugs? HOORAY! Free protein! (well... protein at vegetable per-pound prices!) I make the ultimate sacrifice of transferring my lady bugs to the outdoors rather than ingesting them, but clean buggies & worms and such are nothing to worry about. In fact, our ancestors valued them properly, and crunched them up YUM. You might even get a tad of that elusive slug lectin we're all trying to get hold of. ;-D I don't suppose that suspect brocc has healthy critters among its fronds? that would be a very good sign, too.

That'll do from me ~ YES, we most definitely want to hear your medical report on the metal toxicity issue, dear! Write early and often! :-D




I,m a type A and I love asien food. Now according to the book I cant eat red chillies, what about green chilles? I would also like to cook with fish sauce and oyster sauce, which is very common in the thai citchen, are this products ok for an A type or not? and how about egg noodles? I would appreciate you answering my Question! Many thanks and best regards!! Hetty

Greetings, Hetty! Fish sauce made from anchovy only is fine. Check the ingredients of the oyster sauce -- if it contains any avoids for type A, it would be an avoid for you. All chilis of every color are avoid for type A. For the egg noodles, again, just check its ingredients against the book.

I hope the next time you write, I can offer cheerier news! Welcome, dear, and please do keep in touch!! :-D




Heard Dr. D when he was in April. He is very impressive in his dedication to good health while maintaining his humbleness. I for one greatly respect his giving credit to the tons of scientific research that has been done which supports the BTD in addition to the good anecdotal experience. My heartfelt thanks to Dr. D. and you for all the good information and help.

One question I have about babies relates to jaundice which I did not find answered in the baby book. It seems that quite a few new born babies have jaundice. Is there any relation to the blood types of the parents or is there some other cause? Is this jaundice something which will create a problem(s) for the child later in life? Intellectually curious, Conrad

Hello, Conrad! I'm glad you enjoyed Peter's presentation ~ remarkable fellow, isn't he? ;-) may his tribe increase!!!

I do enjoy this kind of question. I get to scramble around looking for research and try in my unschooled way to offer at least a qualified response on the problem. :-) From what I've found, it appears that jaundice in babies is due to (1) the shorter life of red blood cells in newborns, and the cell death involved in bruising in the birth process, resulting in (2) greater demands on their tiny livers and intestines to process & excrete the dead blood cells, causing (3) a rise in the liver pigment bilirubin in the blood which can't be excreted quickly enough, presenting as (4) yellow color in the skin and eyes. You're right, it is quite common, and babies usually need no treatment (although many hospitals routinely use phototherapy to help them along, and in the rare case where bilirubin levels are dangerously high, a blood exchange is done).

Experienced midwives of my acquaintance tell me that ABO incompatibility (meaning that Mom is type O and baby is type A or B) can indeed cause jaundice, through the transfer of blood during and immediately after birth which allows Mom's antibodies to A and B to kill lots of those "alien" baby blood cells. If there is reason to suspect possible incompatibility, the attending midwife will clamp the cord immediately in order to minimize this damage -- whereas the normal procedure is to preserve the open link between mom & child as long as possible, leaving the cord intact to pulse until it is empty. This is a case of extreme caution, since serious concerns over jaundice usually arise only in premature babies.

If any of our distinguished readers can offer additional insight, do please write in & continue our education! Many thanks in advance! and it was lovely to receive your message, Conrad!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Laryngitis ~ NADH DOSAGE ~ and a bevy of blood types!

January 25th, 2001 , by admin



Dear Heidi, I've got laryngitis...again! I seem particularly susceptible to having a cold lodge in my throat -- it seems that one to two times a year I completely lose my voice when I have a minor head cold. My husband and daughters think it is hilarious, but it's getting rather annoying to me. I am type O+. Do you have any ideas about this? Any preventives? Anything!?! Thank you again for your input, time, energy...you're a huge help! ~ Ruth



Hey there, Ruth ~~ :-) Common laryngitis is caused by swelling in the vocal cords, which in turn is a result of inflammation -- either from misuse & overuse, or from infection. Once they're in that state, the best thing to do is stop talking altogether. The more you try to use them, the more you irritate them.



If tolerated, I'd start taking quercetin throughout the day. 500 mg caps, six to eight daily until your voice returns to normal. Then a maintenance dose of one or two per day, if you like. Warm herbal tea, like chamomile or something else that's soothing, is good for it as well. I feel for ya -- it's amazing how difficult things become when we have to whisper and use sign language with the hub & kiddies!! :-D








Dear Heidi, I am a type 'O' non-secretor that is significantly overweight and suffers from chronic fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, chronic depression and chronic pain that appears to be the result of either stress (tense muscles) or myalgia. I currently take two different anti-depressants (Wellbutrin and Celexa) as well as Ranitadine daily. I really want to follow the BTD program but have had a lot of difficulty. I find I am often too tired to prepare proper meals or exercise (as well as unmotivated). I don't eat often enough; often only once a day because I'm not terribly hungry and can't think of anything I want to eat (I'm a relatively fussy eater), then, when I'm finally really hungry and still can't think of anything I want, I end up eating something fast and tasty-inevitably some junk that is terrible for me.



At any rate, I am always looking for something to improve my energy levels and boost my motivation. I have been reading a bit about pregnenolone and wonder if it's for me. Is it safe to combine with the drugs I currently take? I am seeing a Dr. regularly and have had my hormone levels checked many times. I am not hypothyroid (too bad :) ) although we did supplement T3 for a while to see if I was subclinical and if it would help-it didn't. I am 32 and have been clinically depressed to some degree for 27 years. I have been on several different antidepressants over the years with varying success. I have tried to stop taking them, but find I inevitably become suicidal. Right now, I would describe myself as being about 70% 'normal' (whatever normal is) with occasional dips to about 50%. I just can't seem to get over this fatigue and lose weight. I know they are interconnected, but I just think that if I could jump start my energy I could get myself on the road. Any suggestions? Cheers, Paige



DEAR PAIGE! I'm so glad you wrote! I'd like to cover a couple other things you asked me, too. First, I just got the answer on the NADH dosage in the Encyclopedia: it should be 5 mg, NOT 50 mg. A zero crept in there -- it's a huge book, so I'm pleased there are so very few errors to announce. ;=>



You asked about agave, too, around the time I answered someone else's question about it -- you can find that column by entering "agave" in the search form at the bottom of this page, if you've not yet read it.



Now for the bad news (lol!) Between the long history of neurochemical imbalance (your depression is physically expressed as too much of some chemicals and too little of others), and the medication along with the harmful foods, I don't think that adding pregnenolone would be the way to go. However, if you decide it's worth a shot, then go to your doctor and explain what you plan to do and ask him if he knows of any drug interactions with pregnenolone. Pregnenolone may help your "master gland," the pituitary, and the adrenals, for which you weren't tested. I would definitely visit or call the doc to check and see if it would be harmful for you to take it --- that's the only question I'd ask him. Whether he thinks it would do any good isn't important, because if you're willing to find out if there's some good from it, and he says it won't be harmful, then it's open for you to try.



That said, I know what it's like to take everything in the book, and see no improvement in energy -- we Os just seem to REQUIRE the basic things, and don't seem to respond much to supps alone if we're not doing the basics.



Because the first and most basic step to benefit from this plan is doing the diet and exercise, that's where I hope I can help you get on track. I know it's a heck of a challenge, and you've already said you have a devil of a time even getting started, but that is the thing you need most of all. What I'd like to do is hook you up with someone local to you, either a BTD practitioner or some layperson who is skilled in using this diet with whom you can work out some details. Or, do you have a friend who could help you get the right foods into the house and maybe cook up some storeable foods for you once or twice per week? There are simple things that he, she or you can make, stick in the fridge or freezer, and just heat up when you're hungry. There are also good snacks that require no preparation, like rice crackers and almond or walnut butter -- If you write back and tell me what you absolutely can't face eating, I'll make up a shopping list and a simple set of meals that can be had with minimal effort on your part.



The second thing I can offer is the simplest and briefest (yet effective) exercise plan I've ever seen: it's the 5BX Plan and I will be happy to walk you through it. It's just four simple movements, and a jog, or a "jog in place" which can be done in whatever way you are comfortable doing it. It can be done anytime you think of it -- it takes only a few minutes to do. No sweating, no equipment, nothing but enough space to stand up and lie down is required. If you can make the motions of getting out of bed, of picking up a sock, of looking at the ceiling, you can most CERTAINLY do this plan!! and it's amazing how different you feel afterward! I'd be very glad to discuss it and assist you in any way I can!!! Keep me posted!! :-D








Hi, Heidi: I wrote to you a few days regarding a nickel allergy. And I wanted to let you know about the results of my blood work. My doctor couldn't find a thing wrong with me. My thyroid, liver function, and my hormones were all normal. I didn't have anemia and I didn't have a high level of metal in my body either. She also did various other tests, but I'm not sure what they were. I'm not sure why I'm reacting so serverely to so many of my highly benefical foods, but apparently they all contain traces of nickel. In your previous advice you told me to take the supplement quercetin, which I already take. I was doing yoga every other day and walking on the alternate days, and now I don't have the energy to do either anymore. As soon as I get home from work, I put on my pajamas and climb into bed. I've also just come down with a case of shingles. I'm really at a loss as to what I can eat. I'm only eating chicken, soy products, rice products, and some vegetables. I can't eat lettuce, spinach, brocolli, fish of any kind, nuts of any kind, or any beans without having a reaction. I've made an appointment with a holistic doctor here in town, who is an advocate of the blood type diet. I'll take my blood test results to him and hopefully he can help. Any suggestions from you would be greatly appreciated. Shelley



Shelley, you're doing exactly what I'd recommend -- getting professional advice. I'm not at all familiar with what you're dealing with. If anyone writes in with experienced advice for you, I will put it up here post-haste! Best wishes to you, and please keep those updates coming --- very much appreciated! :-)








Heidi, Hello again. I was all ready to embrace Dr. D'Adamo's dietary suggestions for myself and family (we're all Os, secretor type unknown). But then, I came across a book called Eat to Live by Joel Furhman, M.D., and now I'm very unsure. Have you read his book? It's new. In it, Furhman makes a very case based on 1,000s of scientific articles/studies for eating 80-90 percent of one's diet from mostly raw vegies and some cooked, and fresh fruit. He says that the data strongly support eating meat/poultry/fish/eggs only as condiments and only occasionally, and eating only a cup or so of grains each day. What's a Type O to do??? Any feedback you can offer is appreciated. Thank you, Kathryn



Hi, Kathryn ~~ :-D Well, it sounds so close to what Peter recommends, that I'm sure there are some good points in that book. Tell me, does Dr. Furhman say that everyone will profit by a cup or so of grains daily? and does he make any distinction at all between raw food items, based on the differing biochemistries among individuals? For instance, does he consider whether the particular food contains elements which agglutinate certain blood type material, or raises urinary indican levels, or protects against disease (or is common in the diet of certain individuals with certain diseases), or contains enzymes which react with ABO type expressed in the mucus tissues, or stimulates opposing blood group antibody reactions? That's just the tip of the iceberg that I'd want to ask about.



If his plan does not ascertain and take into account all those things, then I'd say all you need to do is follow the O diet (which DOES take into account all those factors, and many more), and eat as much in the way of beneficial and neutral raw vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds as you like, along with the animal foods which we thrive upon. There are too many of us who have found that vegetarianism and constant grain intake sets us up for low energy in the short run, and failing health and disease over time. In good conscience, I could never recommend a one-size-fits-all plan to you and your family. thanks for your note, Kathryn!! :-D








I have purchased both the book Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type and the small companion book of food lists for my blood type O. The problem is that there are descrepencies between the list of Highly Beneficial, Neutral and Avoid in the book and that of the paperback Blood Type O Food Beverage and Supplement Lists. Which one should I do by? For instance, in the Food Beverage and Supplement book it lists Goose as neutral but the book says to Avoid goose; Food Beverage and Supplement says Avoid Pinto beans the book says they are highly beneficial. What happened? I want to know which to avoid and which is beneficial. Will there be another Food Beverage and Supplement printed that is more complete and proofed better? Thanks, Jean



Hello, Jean! Scroll to the bottom of this column, and read the last few paragraphs there starting with "Found Contradictions." Thanks, dear! :-D








Dear Heidi, my 4 years old child(O plus)is ging to be operated on his both eyes, in a month time. they use narcosis to make him sleep and explaind me that he might feel very bad after. I was wondering if you could recomend pre and after operation treatment which wil help bust health before entering surgery and going back to normal more rapidly after surgery.(He eats according BTD and I give him every day multi vitamins for children plus vit-C)thanks a lot, Lisya



Lisya, do you have the Encyclopedia, the big paperback book? It contains surgery recovery protocols, to be used two weeks before and continued two weeks after surgery. He would take them at 1/2 dosage. Let me know if I can help you find the book where you are. Or, send an email to info@stacktheme.com and ask the European folks about getting that book. If you can't obtain it in the next week, write again and I'll try to help with the supplements. Best wishes for your little one, Lisya! :-)








How do you feel about crystallized ginger? Does the fact that ginger is a beneficial for O types outweigh the evil in the sugar? It's a tasty treat ocassionally. Maureen



Whoa, it's mighty sugary! ;-) The ginger is still beneficial, and the sugar is still... well, sugar. The good effects ginger has upon digestion, however, may be somewhat difficult to notice when your tum is faced with dealing with all the sugar. As a sweet, I think it's superior to lots of other things one might choose, but I guess I'm trying to say it's more of a candy than a beneficial food. :-D








Hi Heidi, thanks so much for your long answer to my long questions about the lung cancer thing. I did look in the Practitioner Registry but couldn't find some who is certified. And even with that, there didn't seem to be that many choices, which surprises me since I live in the San Francisco Bay Area (zip code 94947). I may not entirely understand how to use that particular search function but I didn't come up with much. If you could point me to anyone that is good around here, I would really appreciate it. I don't think I can know who would be good or who not so good. And then on a very small note, I'm glad to hear that coconut milk is in the fruit, not the oil, category! How much coconumt milk would equal one piece of fruit? Oh, and on the subject of tumor markers and A non-secretors, I guess my real question is: if a tumor marker is not present, would that result be as reliable for a non-secretor? Thanks again, Heidi. JoanV



Hi, Joan ~~ Coconut milk? I'd say 8 ounces would be roughly equivalent to one piece of fruit. And I think your tumor-marker question is custom-made for Doc Bron! I'd pop right over there and ask that question of him. He is sure to know the authoritative answer!



How weird! I couldn't find any San Francisco practitioners in the database, either! I did see one in Aptos, about two hours from you, but... hmmm! The way I searched was, I asked it to sort by state (from the pulldown menu on the left), then I typed in "CA." 33 hits, and not one in your city.



Hey, you SF folks out there! Must be loads of BTD practitioners in your neck of the woods. Any suggestions for Joan? Perhaps some of you who attended the conference met an ND from her area? All suggestions and recommendations welcome!



Take good care, Joan, and I hope you're doing well! :-D By the way, Sarah's been thinking of you... see below!








Hello again Heidi. In today's column (17 May) you printed a question from Joan who has lung cancer. She had lost a lot of weight and wanted to put some back on. She said "And then there is the limitation on fats for my A diet. I get as far as thinking about a smoothie with almond butter, water and berries." I have always assumed the limitation on fat for As derived from our propensity to heart disease. If this is the case I would respectfully suggest that Joan can worry about heart disease later once her lung cancer is under control. Weight loss can be a big problem with cancer. It seems to me it is more important for Joan to get food and calories into herself in any form that (a) she can tolerate and (b) will not overburden her immune system & liver. This means avoiding her allergic foods and the A-non avoids, especially the lectin-based avoids. A-nons have fewer avoids as well as fewer beneficials. Fat is not in itself an avoid. If I were her I would not worry just now about sticking to fat portion controls. I would just try to concentrate on getting enough of each category of food, preferably beneficials, to keep me well. When she is on chemo she may find she can tolerate certain types of food better than others and they may not always be the ones most highly recommended for her type. I do not generally eat any meat, even the neutrals, but there are points in the cycle when tempeh tastes like dung to me and salad feels like steel ribbons, and all I can get down is turkey & root veg soup. Joan will have to be adaptable & make occasional compromises. I wish her all the best in facing her challenge. This is a horrible time for her and I think we ae all sending her our very best wishes. I'd like to recommend a couple of books and a website that are full of hope and have been very helpful for me. The books are Dr Bernie Siegel's "Love Medicine & Miracles" and "Peace, Love & Healing", and his website http://www.ecap-online.org which also has a message board. Love, Sarah XXX



Elizabeth Kubler-Ross said: "If there were no windstorms, the rocks would not be carved into such beautiful shapes".



Great advice, and lovely inspiration, Sarah ~~ thank you so much!!!

:-D






Posted in On The Diet

Notes for Joan V, Paige, Rachel and Karl ~ and.... well, LOTS MORE !!

January 24th, 2001 , by admin



I a type A Vegan. I just picked up your book and was fascinated by it (especially by the foods that I have always, natrually, hated that are on my avoid list). I also follow several Vegan websites. I read an interesting article and would like your feedback on it: http://www.all-creatures.org/health/zonebloodtype.html I tend to read all points of view and then pick what seems to work for me. I am following several points of the ERFYT books, and I like it very much. Could you please address the article above? Thanks, Rachel

:-D Hi, Rachel! I'm smiling because Peter addressed that Klaper webpage some years ago. People do still ask about it occasionally, though, so I'm always happy to direct them to the appropriate page here ~ Episode 2 of 'Fun with Critics'.

It's too bad Dr. Klaper didn't stop by the IFHI conference this past February. He would have gleaned an enormous amount of clinical and laboratory research on the blood type health system which he could have used for his patients, as well as had the opportunity to have his criticisms addressed first-hand from the biologists and physicians there (that's if any questions remained for him after the nine hours of expert lectures and the multitude of presentation materials & handouts).

I hope you will indeed read everything you can find on this plan. There's an abundance of research literature available, as well as loads of other info, linked from the home page. Enjoy, dear! and thanks for writing!! :-D




This is in response to JoanV with lung cancer, looking for a practitioner in the bay area. Christine Chan is in Castro Valley, which is in the East Bay. She can find her in the registry. Also, Dr. Bron will do phone consults at Dr. D's clinic. The clinic number is 203-348-4800. -- Lisa




Not a question but a comment. I live in the San Francisco Bay area as well and there is one practictioner (Moses Goldberg ND) that includes the BTD program. He's in Santa Rosa but that's only about a half hour from 94947 (Novato) in non-commute times of course. The webaddress is www.imcsr.com. Hope that helps. -- Diane




This is a response for Paige (May 22nd) who does not have the energy to fix the food for the diet. I can totally relate. When I started on the BTD I was the exact same way. It took me two weeks to clean out my house of all "avoids" and get the food in the house to start. Then I made it as easy as I possibly could by cooking once or twice a week for quick meals.

I make a marinated salad (I'm an O secretor but you could adjust the vegetables to any blood type). My salad contains blanched broccoli, artichoke hearts, parsley, and onions. I make a huge quantity that fills a Tupperware Cake Taker - several heads of broccoli. I make a dressing of 3 parts lemon juice, 1 part olive oil, garlic, cayenne pepper, finely grated dry mustard, vegetable glycine or honey and sea salt. Pour over vegetables and refrigerate.

Then I buy lean cuts of deli roast beef and whole breast turkey and package them in 3-4 ounce zip bags and freeze them. Cook enough fresh fish for 2-3 meals and refrigerate. Voila, scoop out some salad, thaw some deli meat or serve cold fish and you have a dinner or lunch (I even eat it for breakfast).

Once you start eating right and the light exercise that you recommend (5BX), Heidi, the energy returns quickly. Within two weeks I was amazed at how much energy I had and could begin to cook more. Now I am hiking, walking, bicycling, and swimming - it has been less then 4 months since I started. However, I still make my weekly marinated salad because it is an easy way to avoid snacking on something that is not healthy for us and for packing a lunch for work. I even have the salad as a snack if I'm craving or hungry after my dinner. Good luck, Paige. Find the energy once a week to ensure success every day. It is worth it. -- Peggy

Ladies, thanks most sincerely for your kindness and generous help. Inspiring, as always ~~ and VERY much appreciated!! :-D




I'm following the type "O" diet currently and have three of your books, Eat Right For Your Type, Live Right For Your Type, and the small pocket reference book for Type O people. One discrepancy I've noticed is that some of the food items listed in the Eat Right For Your Type (ERFYT) book conflict with your recommendations made in the small pocket reference book. Any clarification would be very much appreciated. Thank you! Karl

Hello, Karl! Please go to the last few paragraphs at the bottom of this column, beginning with the words "FOUND INCONSISTENCIES?" The answer you're looking for is there. :-)




Dear Heidi, I looked everywhere in the BTD books and I couldn't find anything about GRAPESEED OIL. Can you tell me if it is good for my blood type which is A+. Thank you again. Ana Bela

Hi there, Ana Bela!! We have no rating for it, but I expect it to be classified as a neutral for all types. Choose your brand carefully -- Spectrum is one brand I know which doesn't use hexane or other organic solvents to extract the oil, so look for that info on the label. Even so, Spectrum's grapeseed oil is not certified organic. I'm still searching for an organic version! :-) thanks for writing, dear! :-D




I have searched several sites including yours and cannot find this answer. I am a type A. I have added vanilla soy milk to my diet. I have a box of silken tofu yet to be used. If I used the tofu in making a meal and have leftovers, will the tofu be ok to be reheated. Thanks Clara

Sure it can, Clara! enjoy!! :-)




Hi Heidi, I have a couple of questions. One for the Typebase and one about my daughter. The Typebase is about sugar. In LR4YT, sugar is an avoid for all nonsecretors. [wish there were a spell check on this, I almost wrote "for tall nonsecretors" :p ]But in Typebase and Encyclopedia, Brown/White Sugar is a neutral for A regardless of secretor status. What are your thoughts on this? I thought best to avoid sugar because of our immune systems being affected. Just wondering because found a great soy milk by YU (with umlat over the U) with millet, amaranth and buckwheat but has brown sugar.

Speaking of immune systems, I believe my daughter has a low grade sinus infection and has one for a long time maybe as long as a year. She easily gets stuffed up along with a cough. It lasts anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Tomorrow will be a couple of weeks on this one. I have an OMD who gives her herbs(doctor of oriental medicine) when nothing else will do but it just feels like I keep treating it and not really addressing it completely. She cannot swallow pills yet. She has tried.

Here is what I give her. She is 5 yrs. old and an A nonnie: 1) powdered ARA daily in her juice about 3-4 times per day - approx. 1/8 tsp each time. Juice is diluted 75% water & 25% juice. But she goes in phases for past 2 weeks it has only been water. Then I struggle with what to put the ARA into. 2) 1 tsp. of Proberry daily (that stuff is SO delicious) 3) chewable Acerola C - does contain sucrose 4) chewable vitamins by Animal Parade, chewable zinc and echinacea, in morning and at night 5) 1 tsp. Heallix in morning and in night (she even squirts a little diluted Heallix up each nostril with a dropper. she is amazing.) 6) when she gets really stuffy and can't breathe, chewable Benadryl and 2 tsp. liquid ibuprofen 7) I run a vaporizer in her room at night She seems to get congested when she does not drink enough. She is very sensitive to this. She goes to preschool and I send water along with her. Everyone tells me kids get sick but rather than treating it, I would like to help her to avoid it altogether. Truthfully, she gets sick so much less than other kids and when she it really is "just" stuffiness with a cough. She has only had 3 ear infections in her life and that is when she was eating wheat (we didn't know about secretor stuff then). Given that I she is an A with an A mom and she had her first ear infection in her first year of life, I think she has beat the odds superbly. I don't think I am setting my sights too high but who knows.... Of course avoiding wheat and too much sugar makes a difference. Here is generally what she eats. Morning: 2 hardboiled eggs Lunch: 1 1/2 tofu hotdogs OR a sliced turkey sandwich on spelt bread - (turkey from Whole Foods - no nitrates or carrageenan) one frozen ice cube tray size of Trader Joes apple raspberry sauce - unsweetened OR a carob rice cake with barley malt for swee spelt pretzels Snack: Sweet potato with Earth Balance "butter" (natural flavor from corn) OR sardines with organic ketchup (has vinegar) OR homemade barley/soy flour cookies with veg glycerine Dinner: Grilled Salmon OR Tuna salad with mayo (with vinegar) with cut up carrots and onions OR cut up pieces of turkey. 2 organic kiwis OR 1/2 grapefruit for dessert. The only green vegetable she really eats is artichokes. She is crazy for them. There was a time when she would eat okra with me. I have the picture to prove it. And salads and pumpkin seeds in Braggs and olive oil. But now all she wants is what you see. Having you and the BTD community is very meaningful for me. Thanks in advance for your taking the time to think about all of this and be there for so many. Nina

What a little toughie! -- Your daughter, that is! ... well... you, too!! :-D

The cause of her stuffiness looks a little difficult to pinpoint. Two questions: do the congestion episodes begin after she comes home from school, and does she feel a little "warm" on arriving home? or can they start anytime, even when school's not in session? and without elevated temperature? Second, have you tried a full adult dose of PolyFlora-A caps (opening them and giving them to her in a little warm water)? I would certainly start giving her ghee instead of Earth Balance product, as her immune system needs some bolstering. She is managing to get some sugar and corn sweetener everyday, and I wonder if she may be extremely sensitive to corn & sugar. Any way she could be persuaded to eat her eggs as a neat little omelette with some turkey & onion? A little extra protein in the morning may help her body exeunt the baddies. Any chance the humidifier is incubating irritants or allergens?

(that was supposed to be two questions. Oh, well. :-})

I was interested to hear Dr. Tom Kruzel's IFHI conference lecture. He professed himself very pleased to see kids with snotty noses, as this indicates their immune systems are building up apace. Could this be some happy news about what's going on with your girl? Unpleasant for the present, but you're doing a beautiful job of diet design for her. I don't see a great deal more that you could do. The only further thing I'd try is doubling the Heallix dose. It cannot harm her, and I feel she could use more help from it if this is a persistent sinus infection rather than a recurring reaction to food or environment. Try these ideas, and let's see in a week or two if there is any change.

There are still discrepancies between TYPEbase and what it should be, because I haven't restored it yet. Hang in there, I'm only a couple of weeks late! :-} "Sugar (Brown/White)" IS an avoid for ALL nonsecretors, and a neutral for all secretors. ;-)

Best wishes, my dear ~~ I love the mental picture of the okra party, and your little toughie squirting Heallix up her nose. :-D




Dear Heidi, Hi! After reading about mercury toxicity in "On the Diet", I made an appointment with a new dentist that practices mercury free dentistry. After a full set of x rays, he found that I have an abscess in my upper front cuspid tooth. (It is ironic that less than a week earlier my dentist of 30 years who advocates for amalgam fillings as the best, told me my teeth were fine after my routine 6 month cleaning and examination from him) and after the teeth cleaning I had a headache for 4 cont. days and felt weak and achy.

I am o+ and have brown hair/hazel eyes. I am going to have a root canal done in 2 weeks and I am taking Heallix and extra vit. C and wonder if you have any other suggestions? Other than feeling tired I have no other health prob. Thank you very much for all your help and information. I thank you for the early detection of my tooth abscess. Rose

Hi, Rose! :-) If you were a nonsecretor, Peter would recommend a course of antibiotics before invasive dental work. Since we don't know your status yet, it's up to you -- but I think you'd be well-served by using the "chelation pesto" I mentioned, before and after your dental work. If you decide to do the antibiotics, just take PolyFlora-O for a week before you start and two weeks after you complete the antibiotics. Heallix will do a very good job for you. It takes a little longer to rout the infection when it's lodged in the bony mass of the jaw. Keep me posted, Rose! I'll be thinking of you, dear!! :-D




Dear Heidi, How are you? EVEN THOUGH THIS IS NOT A PART OF DR. D'ADAMO'S BLOOD TYPE SERIES PUBLICATIONS, I wanted to bring to your attention a New York Times Bestseller book titled: THE OKINAWA PROGRAM- How the worlds's LONGEST-LIVED people acheive EVERLASTING HEALTH- and how you can too; LEARN THE SECRETS TO HEALTHY LONGEVITY: 16 ways to eliminate Excess Calories, 10 Healing Foods and Herbs, 4 keys to Becoming and Staying Optimistic, Tips for Achieving a Healthy Protein Balance and much more- BASED ON THE 25-YEAR OKINAWA CENTENARIAN STUDY. This book was written in 2001 by these 3 authors: 1)BRADLEY J. WILLCOX, M.D., M.Sc, an internist and a geriatrics fellow in the Division on Aging at Harvard Medical School, a resident scholar at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa Japan, and a co-investigator of the Okinawa Centenarian Study; 2)D. CRAIG WILLCOX, Ph.D., a medical anthropologist and gerontologist, an assistant professor at Okinawa Prefecural University-College of Nursing and a co-investigator of the Okinawa Centenarian Study; 3)MAKOTO SUZUKI, M.D., Ph.D., a cardiologist and geritrician on the faculties of the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa International University, is the principal investigator of the Okinawan Centenarian Study. NOTE: DRS. BRADLEY J. WILLCOX AND D. CRAIG WILLCOX ARE IDENTICAL TWINS. Dr. D'Adamo had mentioned in his 1st book, BTD, that Japan has some of the highest concentrations of blood type "A" people in the world. If one reads this book, THE OKINAWA PROGRAM, one would discover that the diet, excercises, and life style suggestions, are VERY SIMILAR TO DR. D"ADAMO'S SUGESTIONS FOR BLOOD TYPE "A" PEOPLE IN THE U.S.A. AND ELSEWHERE. However, THE OKINAWAN PROGRAM truly goes into much greater depth in this INTENSIVE STUDY. As mentioned from the back cover of this 484 page paperpack, THE OKINAWAN PROGRAM, authored by a team of internationally renowned experts, is based on the landmark scientifically documented twenty-five Okinawan Centenarian Study, a Japanese Ministry of Health-sponsered study. THIS IS ALSO MENTIONED FROM THE BACK COVER OF "THE OKINAWAN PROGRAM": "If Americans lived more like the Okinawans, 80 percent of the nation's coronary care units, one-third of the cancer wards, and a lot of the nursing homes would be shut down."-FROM THE OKINAWAN PROGRAM- I went through alot of the book,with time permiting. The diet emphasizes lots of vegetables, plant foods, OMEGA-3 foods and oils which is basically alot of coldwater/ocean fishes, whole grains as wild rice, very common staple in the Orient, lots of soy foods, and frequent drinks of teas (green tea along with various herbal teas). Also emphasized, in addition to regular excercise, is the practice of Tai-Chi as well as various other health enhancing martial arts. ALOT OF OTHER EXCELLENT SUGGESTIONS ARE WRITTEN INSIDE THIS BOOK. The ELDERLY people of Okinawa have the LOWEST rates of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, as well as the LOWEST rates of high blood lipid levels; LDL Cholestrol, Triglycerides, and Homocystein, compared to other elderly persons of other countries throughout the world. THIS IS TRULY AN AMAZING ACCOMPLISHMENT. It would be SUPER WONDERFUL if the U.S.A., Canada, Northern/Western European countries, along with other countries throughout the world could accomplish all this. I TRULY BELIEVE IT CAN BE DONE, EVERYBODY HAS TO WANT IT BAD ENOUGH TO ACCOMPLISH ALL THIS! I also realize that there would have to be an ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF CO-OPERATION with all levels of government, The American Medical Association, all the state medical associations, and all levels of the educational establishments; from kindergarten thru post college graduate schools and all the boards of education throughout the country. Heidi, God Bless you and your family! God bless the U.S.A.. Marshal in Wichita, KS

Hi, Marshal!! You always bring up great research, and you have marvelous ideas. One of the keys to the Okinawan's diet is hyaluronic acid, abundant in cockscombs and some of their native plants such as Japanese sweet potato. I've been looking for them in our markets, but they're dashed hard to find. Any tips? Many thanks, dear, and blessings flow to you!! :-D




Hello Heidi, Next week (May 27), Udo Erasmus is giving a presentation in a town near me. His Udo's Blend contains Flax oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil,evening primrose oil,lecithin, rice bran and germ oils, d-alpha tocopherol which is supposed to be a healthy balance of omega 3 and 6. Since I am type O, I can't buy it because the sunflower oil is an avoid for O's. Is the sunflower oil significant to take anyway to get the benefit from the blend or should i just stick to straight flax and olive oil? thanks jayne

Hello, Jayne! Sunflower's a bit high in the ingredient list for my liking -- I wouldn't use it. Why not use flax, EPO, lecithin, rice bran oil and a mixed tocopherol supp instead? You could make your own brew! :-)

Know what? Your question is a great one for Mr. Erasmus himself. Explain that.... you're "allergic" to sunflower oil, and does he have a product you CAN have which would do similar things? (or is there a way to mix the oils you CAN have to do the same thing, but I doubt he'll answer that one, LOL!) SECOND, ask him if the rice bran component is organic.... and if so, I WANT TO KNOW WHERE TO GET ORGANIC RICE BRAN OIL, GOSH DARN IT! :-D Enjoy the presentation, Jayne, and let me know what you learn!! :-D




Hi Heidi, I am a 42 years old female(A neg,non-secretor) from Holland and on the diet for about two years now, with great results for IBS and immune system. In january I started to follow the guidelines in LR4YT for non-secretors. So I stopped eating sugar because I tend to have problems with candida(I guess) and hypoglycemia. Is it possible that my body has become more sensitive to sugar, beacause I seem to have more hypo's and fatigue when I eat something sweet now. (only on special occasions, like birthdayparties) I know there is also a lot of stress involved, I'm a nervous type, (A's huh) so I try to practice yoga as much as I can. Do you have suggestions for supplementation to keep those hypo's umder control. I'm taking a multivitamin and probiotics and a mineral supplement from orthica, a dutch brand, because NAP supplements are quite expensive here. I've used cortiguard but I ran out of that now. I have limited my coffee intake to one cup in the morning, beacause lots of coffee seem to make it worse. I try to minimize in the graincategory but that's rather difficult here. In Holland we are used to eating (spelt)bread or cereals for breakfast and lunch. Your advise is most welcome, thank you very much. Greetings, Wil.

Oh, yes. Your body wasn't designed to deal with refined white sugar at all! so now that you've been away from it, having a little will set off alarms. Instead of sugar, seek out vegetable glycerine for all your sweetening needs - from tea to baking. Searching (at the bottom of this page) for "glycerine" will bring up a number of columns -- just read the one with the title which includes "ALL ABOUT VEG GLY" and proceed to the others for more.

Wil, I wish you could come to the States and see the breakfasts and lunches we "are used to! -- you would see what I am faced with! I must order carefully if I'm out, and for the greatest part I eat at home or with others who understand this diet. However, with time it has become quite normal for me, and quite pleasant, to eat as I do. If you like, you could have bread for lunch one day, and cereal for breakfast the next. But do switch grains when you can -- between oatmeal, amaranth, spelt, kamut, as many as you can find in your market or baker or health food store. If you have an extra serving or two during the week, I don't think that is too terrible! ;-)

If you use only one product from NAP, please use the probiotic. There is nothing else like it. Others can contain a wide selection of inappropriate organisms, and no other product is designed specifically with blood-group flora interactions in mind. For a nonsecretor, it is very important for your immune system health. And Cortiguard is more effective that any supplement I've ever seen for regulating cortisol, leading to better healing, peaceful sleep and vibrant energy -- and a calm focus throughout the day -- but I certainly understand if the expense is difficult to justify for you. Besides, you do yoga!

I'm very pleased you do your yoga! It's such a wonderful thing!! I think you're doing a great job, and please keep in touch!! :-D




hello heidi, this is the little scots lady again i hope you are well as you would have to be coping with all the questions you get from btd people you are very patient my Question is i've ordered DGL Licorice from stachtheme your uk distributer and as i am on rabeprazole sodium 20mg for GERD and i also have HBP can i still take DGL i've got a feeling i can but i wanted to be sure thank-you for all the support i've had in the past when i visit my sister in new jersey i intend to make a trip to one of your seminars cheers mary mccormick.

Well, hello, dear! Oh yes, you can still take the DGL. It's designed especially so that it does not raise blood pressure, and it is good for the tum. Did you try the ginger juice as we discussed before?

Let me know if you plan to attend an event ~ I'd love to meet you! go well, Mary! :-D




Hi Heidi, Thanks for the info on all the different peppers and for informing me that I can have fish sauce, i just can't get enough of Thai food. I have another question - I am seeing a naturopath for dry eyes and for a throat complaint, not sure what its called but it feels like I have something stuck in there all the time, the specialist told me its just acid from my stomach causing the muscles in my throat to tense up. Anyway since i have seen the naturopath and she put me on chinese herbs they have been getting better. She said that my liver is causing these problems so thats what she's treating. Its just that whenever I am in airconditionig for a long time my eyes just seem to get worse (they are better overall) again and its like a yo yo, it gets very frustrating at times and I dread airconditioning although sometimes its hard to avoid. i was wondering if there is anything I can do diet wise that will help improve them quicker. I am type O and am about 90 - 95% compliant. Thanks in advance. Chantelle [Oz]

Hello, Chantelle! First thing I'd do is drink a whole lot of water, every day. At the minimum: 1/2 ounce of pure water for each pound of bodyweight, and a pinch of gray sea salt added to each quart. It will help your liver, it will help your eyes, and your skin will look beautiful! (among other, unseen benefits). Keep me posted, dear!! :-D




In the Blood Type Encyclopedia on Page 348 under Group A-Specific Lectins, it has Pinto Beans, cinnamon,and apples listed with the bad lectin foods when they are good for Type A's. I am a Type A secretor and I eat a lot of peanuts, peanut butter, and apples and also soy products. Can you overdose on peanuts and soy beans???? Thank you for your answer. Carol

AH! Hi, Carol! Go to the search form at the bottom of this page, and type in "errata." Start at the bottom and read through! thanks for writing!! :-D




Hey you, this is CINDI, and first of all, thank you and the other readers who responded about my friend who has ringing in her head. I pass the info on to her, unfortunately she loves the morphine more than she cares to notice. I will keep working on her though. Anyway, moving on, Heidi, as you get told often, not often enough, you are a god send and i may not have gotten so into this change of eating habits if not for you and this column's info. Remember when I wrote about not losing weight? I stopped gaining but wasnt losing, well I took a close look at my life up until a couple years ago and then the most recent years, which i slowly put on this extra 20-25 pounds and I discovered that it started when I had to move into a Condo and then an apartment and there is no yard work for me to do. Seriously, I would love to work up a sweat mowing and gardening and now I dont have that. I am usually already tan by now and I wont even put on shorts because I am not used to looking chubby, I am only 5'2" so 25 extra pounds, looks like 50 extra. I am miserable everytime i look in the mirror and I have started walking at least 4 times a week. The trouble is I am a waitress and walk at work 8 hours everyday. My feet hurt and its not that fun to walk. Oh i walk to the store instead of drive,etc, but this isnt as much exercise as gardening and no where near as fulfilling. I take Bladderwrack by "Nature's wonderland" but sometimes I forget and miss a day. It says on the bottle "not recommended for long term use" What is considered to be "long term"? I also stopped the 1/2 cup of oatmeal a couple times a week in the morning, and I buy the organic beef, cost way more, but oh well, and i am very compliant all the time, except for the Bartles and Jaymes "Hard Lemonade" flavored beer that I drink a few times a week. It is so refreshing and I wonder if that is a huge problem.. I used to drink a four pack every day, now about one in a week. I stopped eating candy and all of us at work snacked on grapes instead, took it to the point that i cant look at a grape for awhile, they were a thirst quencher and I figured better than the Gummy worms, but maybe I over did them and they are on the nuetral list, can too much of something on the neutral fruit list be exceptionally harmful? Okay, I will let you read someone elses stuff now, sorry for rambling, but I was just wondering and wanted to thank you and the others who took the time to help me and my pal. Could I maybe be a non secretor? or are these problems not signals of being a nonny? I just got the test kit and need to get to spittin and mail that baby in to find out huh? :-Þ Cindi (O+)

Whoooops! Did I call ya Cindy? Or Cyndy? Or Cyndi? (I hope I was that close, anyway! lol!)

Ah, well, me dear: opiates are exceedingly seductive. Her doctor's got her addicted to them now. Not a happy prospect. :-( She'll have to want to get off them -- your caring friendship is wonderful, but it's gonna be up to her.

Is there a community garden near you? Check the websites and the yellow pages! You might find a place to work out by your preferences, and bring home some veg as well! Or, go to the bottom of this page and type in "5BX" -- it's a marvelous exercise plan that incorporates many gardening moves, and it's designed to challenge you wherever you are (or your weight is). About the bladderwrack? All herbals should be stopped for a few days & started up again, say every few weeks or a month. It will NOT hurt you if you don't -- that procedure just allows the herb to take breath and attack afresh.

Neutrals will never hurt you. Whatever's in the "Hard Lemonade" might! What does the label say? Not some load of corn sweetener, is it? Try a good brand of hard cider instead -- like Woodchuck Dark & Dry, or (if you can find it) their Granny Smith Varietal. (on that label, the woodchuck's holding a green apple, lol).

Get to spittin,' girl! I look forward to hearing the results! And don't you worry... slowly and surely is the way to success. You'll do it. No doubt about that! :-D




You column is fantastic. Thanks so much. Please help me with Hot Flashes. I feel like I have tried everything the past 3 years: herbs, chinese herbs, progesterone creme, vitamins, accupuncture, chiropractor etc. and nothing seems to help. I have been on the Eat For Your Blood Type plan since Christmas. My blood type is O and I am a non-secretor. My hot flashes are awful. Your advice would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Lynn

Hello, Lynn! Have you tried the herb Rhodiola rosea? Maca? Black cohosh? the FemBalance product in our Store here?

Tell me more about the herbs/supps you've tried, and we'll work out a protocol for you that won't go over old ground. By the way, the Eat Right 4 Your Type Complete Blood Type Encyclopedia has great protocols for female issues. Thanks for writing, and hang in there ~ relief is on its way!!! :-D




I put 1 drop of oregano oil, & 1 drop of thyme oil on my pimples, acne, & cold sores, this helps me. ?many diets emphasize not eating/drinking beverages after 6 or 7pm. What does the blood type diet say about this? brian

Oil of oregano (and thyme) is a potent anti-microbial, so I'm not surprised that it works nicely. Thanks for that tip!

We encourage people to eat their main meal as breakfast, a smaller meal at lunch, and a light one for dinner -- and to finish all food intake at least two hours before retiring to bed. :-D




Hello, Heidi!! I would like to thanks Gwyneth for her tip about my shin splint. It is always welcome any advice about it, although I know my reason... (or I think I do). Do you run?? Heidi, Thank you very much for your advice about the pills. I am not gonna take it! Question: I would like to know if a person who has fungus in his nail(type O)should avoid products that have yeast as part of the ingredient, like some breads. Is that anything in a diet that should be taken more carefully to clean it or not get it worst??? Thank you for been you!!! Bcha.

You're very sweet, Bcha! I hope Gwyneth sees your note!! Yes, I'm a happy runner. Not nearly the mileage I used to do, since I'm trying to focus more on strength training these days (and I've been sitting at the computer more and exercising less... it's driving me nuts, and something's going to change real quick!!), but I miss those perfect-morning-ten-miles up & down the hills of Bronxville! ;-)

Someone with nail fungus should see to his intestinal critters. Yeast ingestion has no effect on this -- but eating the wrong diet, and not taking an ABO-specific probiotic along with food for the wonderful little buddies (like ARA6) will help continue the systemic fungal environment. Here's what to do: clean and dry the feet thoroughly, and apply one drop of any cheapo white vinegar you can find - full strength plain white vinegar. Do this twice per day, and keep the feet clean and dry as much as possible -- kick the shoes and socks off at every opportunity. Nails take a minimum of six weeks to grow out -- do not skip a day, keep up with it twice every day.

You're always such a ray of light, Bcha! keep that big smile shining, dear!! :-D









Posted in On The Diet

Moms & Moms-to-be ~ Maia & Yelena ~ and Micturation! :-D

January 23rd, 2001 , by admin



Hello Heidi, I'm pregnant (8 weeks) and type A (secretor status not known). I'm taking a standard pregnancy multi-vit supplement plus acidopholus while I wait for Live Right 4 Your Baby and the D'Adamo type A pregnancy supps to be shipped over to me in the UK. But I'd really appreciate your advice on the following: If I am eating a healty diet AND taking supplements, can I overdose on certain vitamines and minerals? And could this be harmful for the developing foetus? The National Health Service in Britain does NOT recommend supps during pregnancy, apart from Folic Acid, as it's impossible to regulate what an individual is already getting in the diet and, therefore, determine what extra doses are needed. They claim supplementation COULD lead to chemical inmbalance and be damaging to the developing baby. For example, I just bought some nutritional yeast then realised that, combined with my daily multi-vit, I'd be getting excessive doses of certain B vits along with various others like potassium, sulpur etc. That's just an example - I could have chosen any food stuff. The prolem is, I'm not a scientist and I don't know what's dangerous and what's not. Yet if I stop taking the supplements, I might be missing out on other essential vits and minerals. It's really hard to know what to do. As you know, the first 3 months are crucial in the baby's development because it's making all the vital organs, brain, nervous system etc. The last thing I want to do is damage my baby because I ate too much of a good thing. What do you think? Also, could you recommend a good smoothie or snack I could make when I'm feeling queezy and the last thing I want to do is cook or eat. Thanks so much. Katy

Hello, Katy! For the most part, your diet should provide everything you need. Folic acid is a good addition, and for now I'd concentrate on the beneficial foods (all organic, OK?) emphasizing leafy vegetables, fish, nuts, beans, seeds and fruits. When you get the book, you'll have the full low-down on which herbs or supps are good for you, and which are to be avoided. For now, the low doses of your multi combined with the foods shouldn't do you or the baby any harm.

How about a cup of pineapple chunks, half a cup of strawberries & a half-cup of soft tofu? Thin with juice or water (makes a double batch)! :-D I think that may keep the queezies at bay!

My very best wishes to you and your growing babe, Katy! Drop me a line now & again, let me know how you're doing! :-D




Thank you for your reply to my question about my son. I am preparing my whole presentation to him, and I wanted to give you a little more information about his condition, which I just learned. He has a constant pain in the right lower abdomen, which has never been explained in any of his many tests. This shifts around. He wakes up with nausea and dry heaves. He has numbness in his feet, legs and hands, and sometimes a prickly numbness elsewhere as well. He is really thin--no muscles and no fat either. I have a feeling the B12 is going to help, and the other supps you mentioned as well. If the added info here seems to call for addtional suggestions, please let me know. Meanwhile I'm going to propose the first step of the probiotics, methylcobalamin, and Cortigard. And try to persuade him off of sugar and dairy. I did give him some sips of a fresh-sqeezed vegie juice I had, and he pronounced it delicious. Regarding the question on where to get pure and effective supps, I'll work up a list and send it! Cyndi

Great, Cyndi! You're making wonderful progress with him already. Nothing more convincing for newbies than great-tasting food ~~ I'm so pleased he liked that juice! I'll await your supp list! :-D




All my thanks for your daily answers. I am O, probably no- secretor, my children also. We are all the 3 ADHD, on the diet for 1 year, strict for me and a little less strict for them: my level of energy and attention is past from 20 to 50 %, what was already a big victory for me but there is still 50 % of deficit. I did not adjust either Candida. For my boys, I notice that they are less violent when they do not eat wheat and they digest better without milk. They take recently Ritaline because they have enormous problems of concentration and so big school problems. The encyclopedia is not translated into French ( will it be one day ?) so any protocol for the ADHD and the treatment of Candida is the welcome. One thousand thanks, Anne-Françoise.

Hello, Anne-Françoise ~ I'm sure the Encyclopedia will be translated someday, but in the meantime I hope you will pick up a copy of it and write to me with questions if there is anything you don't understand. The reason I suggest this is that there are three protocols for each of those conditions you are asking about. Each of the six protocols has several items involved, along with additional notes -- so it would be a very long answer for you, and I'm afraid I'd make an error somewhere in typing all the names and numbers!

For type O, you can start with pycnogenol: 60-100 mg daily for 2 weeks, then 30-50 mg. Vitamin B6: 20-30 mg per kg of bodyweight. Calcium, 500-750 mg daily. Those are the adult dosages. Also, when you write back, let me know the ages of your children in order to figure out how much, and what, of all of it would help them. Best wishes to you and your kids, and please do write again! :-)




Hi Heidi! I'm still on the B vitamin/brewer's yeast roll, wanted to comment on the readers with heart palpitations & urinary tract trouble -- heart palpitations can come from a lot of things, but for me it's definitely linked to the vit B's. I also found internet info that vit B's can affect absorption of zinc & vit A, and deficiency of those two is thought to make the body lose the amino acid taurine through the urine -- and taurine plays a major role in heartbeat regularity. (I can't prove the B-zinc-vit A link, internet info is suspect to me, but it does seem likely since I know from better resources that B vitamin deficiency affects metabolism of protein, fats & carbs -- pretty much everything, and that would affect a lot of nutrients.) On urinary trouble, my old nutritional chiro said that is often linked to B vits, especially folic acid. Folic acid deficiency can lead to urinary tract irritation, contributing to UTI's he said. Also contributes to incontinence, because the irritation may be just enough to make you suddenly need to go when you don't really. So I'm still pushing the brewer's yeast for B vits. Though the rosacea I'm working on with the B vits just got worse again when my chemical burns got worse (chemical burns cycle, heal & then burn again.) But I'm still very happy, because the burns were much better than they have been, barely there a all -- I think my body can detox the chemicals through the liver better with the B vits, so they don't have to burn out through the skin. Rosacea probably won't go away til the burns finish & I can use the B vits for better things. Sorry this went kind of off the BTD subject! I am thanking you for your helpful column! And looking forward to my next batch of your molasses chocolate chip cookies! Yum. (o: Maia

P.S. -- Woops! When I said internet info is suspect, didn't mean you! Only resources where I don't know their information foundation & motivation. Woops! Foot in mouth!

Hey now! Don't start thinking I'm not suspect!! SUSPECT US ALL!! :-D

Thanks for your observations! They're such a wonderful contribution to the wealth of knowledge everyone is so generous with... it's a joy!! :-D




Heidi,thanks for your response about my wrestler son, Andrew. College wrestling weight classes range from 125 to 285, and the last weight below heavy-weight is 197, so Andrew is already above the next lowest weight class, and he is the only one who can go heavy on the team - they already have four 197ers. An 88-lb. range is huge, and obviously, the more muscle-weight (not fat) Andrew has, the better, since many of the wrestlers are at the top of their range. Andrew wrestled heavyweight as a high school senior weighing 215 and had a 45-3 record, but we worried about the risk from much heavier opponents, and his college coach wants him to gain, as well. Gaining weight is not the typical problem for wrestlers! I want him to gain it safely, and using the foods A's can eat. Is there any limit on the amount of protein he can ingest daily from soy, other beans, nuts, seeds,fish and poultry? He just burns energy at a tremendous rate, and really has to work at gaining - there is not an ounce of fat on him, now. Any daily tips you can give on diet will be much appreciated. And thanks for the creatine info! Kim

Ah! Thanks for that, Kim! Yeah, he's almost 40 pounds above the 197 level, so the idea of stepping down is a no-go. I was thinking that he'd be facing plenty of guys near the top of the HW range, and hoped to work him down to the next class for that reason, but that's OK, we'll move on! Wrestling success is as much skill as weight (a lot more, actually), so I'm sure he'll have a great season just with the better diet which you're doing such a great job promoting to him!

The only limits he should think about are proportional. Look at the portion/frequency tables and keep them in balance one to another. He'll be eating somewhat larger portions on a more frequent basis. For now, I'd add 50% to each portion, and spread the servings out into four to six meals. He'll want a good meal in the morning, a normal lunch, and decent-sized but not enormous dinner, but the snacks and shakes in-between (and one small snack or shake two hours before sleeping) will be part of the "spread." The idea is to avoid overstuffing him, but have him snack whenever he's hungry between meals. Every food group should get the same boost. The vitamins & minerals from veg & fruit are just as important to his muscle growth and stamina as the proteins -- they all work together!

Best of luck, Kim, and please keep us posted on his progress over the summer!! very exciting! :-D




Hello Heidi! It's Yelena again. (I am B+ secretor). Doctor Adamo writes in his book that one should not use the protocols from the book without a help of a naturopathic provider. Is it possible for you to forward the below information to Doctor Adamo, so that he can either correct it or perhaps I should make an appointment with him. I need to know the total costs and how many visits I need because my insurance does not cover any alternative medicine, just as it does not cover my ancologist and the ancological center too. Below is some details on what is going on with me. Following the protocols without professional help is too complicated a procedure, and probably not effective. I can be contacted by e-mail: fisher@escape.com. I have been on a ABO diet since November 2002. Unfortunately I have also had a continuous stress during all this time. Apparently I was unable to contain the stress. The surgery is a result. Funny, just a month before the surgery I had a physical exam, and my physician have not noticed anything wrong. My diagnosis was "Sarcoma of the stomach with metastases in uteris and pancreas". The surgeon has also removed a gallbladder, half of the stomach, uteris and a piece of pancreas. During the surgery they have used a local chemotherapy in the abdomen, but only for a short time. This week they want to start a introvenous chemotherapy. After the surgery my hemoglobin level was at 8-25, (with normal range 13-35). We are using 5 protocols from the book. I take: chemotherapy protocol: bupleurum (620 mg capsule once a day), Itaru green tea, probiotic; surgery recovery: plantain (790 mg) once a day L-Arginine (500 mg) once a day zinc 25 mg once a day Vitamin C from Rose Hips (do not take it because the stomach can not take anything acidic) Bromelain 500 mg - do not take because feel pain from it; cancer prevention: coQ10, 50 mg x 2 day Liver Support: Beet Root 100 mg Licorice Root from a capsule Yelena

Hello, dear Yelena! If you made an appointment with Peter, you'd be waiting for a very long time -- perhaps a year. Do call the phone number for the clinic, and see if Doc Bron can see you soon. The clinic info and address/phone are located on this page, linked as "Clinic" at the top of the home page. The phone number is 203/ 348-4800. They will explain the costs involved, and let you know how you can send your records and the report above to them. Love to you, and warmest best wishes!! :-)




Hello Heidi, Thanks to Glenn for posting the updated information on the pathology lab in Melbourne-I've made an appointment for the secretor test as I'm like a dog with a bone, and want to make sure that my intuition is matched by science. Next, I've just enjoyed reading about the mitochondrial DNA links from each of us back to a single past gggggreat grandmother (Prof Bryan Sykes,"The seven daughters of Eve" and wondered at what point in this scientific journey does Peter's work intersect with Sykes? Also,I've looked at Peter's module on gene theory and anthropology and it seems to imply a different hypothesis than the one in his printed books where you get the impression that the A and B mutations happened fairly recently in response to dietary changes in the landscape, while in the module the implication is that the ABO genes have always been with us. I know you have touched on this in past letters, so hope you can update me. Thanks for your reply about the volume of drinking water.I am experimenting to find the right balance between good digestion and acceptable micturation keeping in mine that as I am an A and really don't do much sweaty exercise and it is coming on to winter here, my water requirements could be less than prescribed. Salut- Jenny

:-D "acceptable micturation," eh? :-D I admire your elegant locutions, dear! By the way, over a couple of weeks' time of increased water intake, the micturation frequency will fall back to pre-super-hydration levels. ;->

I've not read that book, but Peter does give some timelines in BTD which may aid you in discovering the answer to your question. It also gives a simplified version of the ABO developments (types "arising" at various times) in order to communicate the basic idea to a wide audience. The rigorous answer is, yes - they've always been with us. Mutations are (or were) constantly in the works, however, spurred by the necessity of adaptation to new climates and foods. Many thanks for writing, Jenny!! :-D








Posted in On The Diet

IBS/Celiac ~ Foods, Newbies & Old Hands ~ All types!

January 22nd, 2001 , by admin



Regarding the IBS treatment of 5/5/03, my wife was not upset with the rice/blueberry diet, but to the long term avoidance of garlic which is a highly beneficial food for A secretors. (Quote: . . . Eventually you should be able to eat more fruits, vegetables and carbs, but garlic, lot of onions/leeks, . . . and a diet based on lots of cabbage family vegetables (like broccoli) will probably never be tolerated again. . . end of quote). There are few foods left that she can tolerate or like without flavoring them up with some garlic. Quercetin also is high in the onion family and is needed to control the allergies she has. The word “never” made it seem unendurable to her. Actually, she has been doing a lot better since staying off of grains (except rice and amaranth), dairy, and sugars, even in spite of eating the garlic with her braised vegetables, which she is determined to do anyway. I suppose you meant moderation and not avoidance, especially in the case of garlic. At least, that’s what she hopes you meant. By the way, is it possible to have both IBS and celiac disease, without having anemia? And is there a way to detect celiac sprue without having a biopsy of the small intestine? GPF

Hello, GPF! Thanks so much for clarifying your wife's concerns. In Joachim's advice, instead of the word "never," I'd like her to look one back to the word "probably." ;-) All these recommendations are simply information for your use, and certainly not carved in stone. It enables people to narrow down potential food problems, by giving them a few specific items which they can then use for testing purposes. For instance, when she feels she's healed, she could try some garlic and see if that made things worse, or if it had no effect. Right now, it may seem an impossible task to isolate what's continuing her illness, so these guidelines are there for her use if desired.

Quercetin is one substance in yellow onions, but is not the irritant, so isn't an issue for her. I'm not familiar with the medical testing aspect of celiac and IBS, so I couldn't say whether anemia is always present, nor can I comment on celiac sprue testing. Perhaps one of our expert readers could offer this advice?

I'm really pleased that she is doing a lot better now! I believe and hope she will continue to improve, and I would be grateful if you'd continue posting on her situation!! thanks so much! :-D




I have read the book: eat right for your type. but i have one important question to ask, I am blood type O+ and according to the diet i am supposed to eat lean meat and poultry, but I am a vegetarian (but eat fish and eggs). How do i stick to the 0 blood type diet, but remain a vegetarian? Please, I would be really greatful for an answer. Thanks for a great book. Angela

Hi, Angela! You would choose from the beneficials and neutrals in the non-animal-protein categories. Coleus forskohlii is reputed to boost energy metabolism in vegetarians who have blood types which require animal protein for optimal health. Best wishes, dear!! :-D




Hi, I am Type A Blood Group and would like to go on the diet however I am allergic to Peanuts, Soy and have mild reactions to most legumes. How do I get enough protein in my diet if I am not eating much red meat or dairy? Kelly

Start by following the diet very closely, meaning "aim for 100% beneficials," but do not eat the foods which you react badly to. Use all the beans and pulses and nuts and seeds that you CAN tolerate, whether they are beneficial or neutral (don't use avoids). And fill in with the beneficial fish and the neutral poultry. You should do very, very well, no worries! Thanks for writing, Kelly, and welcome to the BTD! :-D






Hello there again Heidi. First a sit-rap, than a truckload of questions: Been following the BTD lifestyle for exactly one year. I’m O secretor, Rh-, male, 37 years. A was a wheat, potato and corn junkie. My two motivations for BTD’ing is weight loss and maximizing general health, but no other known health issues.

Well anyhow, the first six months went along very fine, lost 16 kg and increased energy. Problem is the last six months. I still have 20 kg. to loose, but the scale have not moved further down, neither has chest etc. measurements. And believe me I have been doing it all: Only beneficials for two months, no grains except beneficial veggies, drinking 4 liters of water every day, exercising two – three days a week (running and intense weightlifting) and any other advice I pick up from my daily reading of your fantastic column.

Lately you have on at least two occasions commented on hypotherose. I have the last days measured my temperature in the morning, before I go out of bed, and the temperature is steady 96,40 Fahrenheit, which then should be a strong indication of to low thyroxin production. Can this be the sole explanation for the lack of weight loss or is there other theories about plateaus when one goes down in weight?

In spite of high intensity of my training, my body have not adapted to any extent to the training, and I know that it is not due to overtraining. As I understand it, low thyroxin often means high adrenaline, can that be a possible explanation on the lack of training progress? I’m seeing my doctor two weeks from today in order to check the thyroxin levels. Any suggestions for other test I should do when I’m there?

If the test confirms my suspicion, you did mention here the other day some general suggestion (glands etc.) of thing to take in stead of the chemicals the doctor would normally give. I must admit I didn’t quite understood what you meant, can I kindly ask you to specify. Finally, I have a question about the presence of lectins (wheat for example) in the gut. When one completely drop eating a specific lectin containing substance, for how long can the lectin hang in there before it goes a way? Best regard Geir

Allo, Geir!! That is indeed a low basal temperature. There are plateaus, but six months is far too long after you had a steady weight loss in the preceding six months. The inexpensive glandulars I mentioned to a woman in the U.S. are made by Vitamin Shoppe. I'll give you the ingredient rundown so you'll have a reference to search for a similar product in Scandinavia.

"Thyroid Complex" -- Thiamin (B1) 10 mg, riboflavin (B2) 10 mg, pyroxidine HCL (B6) 10 mg, cyanocobalamin (B12) 25 mcg, iodine (from kelp) 150 mcg, magnesium oxide 100mg, zinc 3 mg, selenium 70 mcg, copper 150 mcg, manganese 3 mg, molybdenum 150 mcg, L-tyrosine 150 mg, and multi gland complex 35 mg (from bovine liver, lung, pancreas, heart, kidney, spleen, brain). The zinc, selenium, copper, manganese and molybdemun are in the form of amino acid chelates. One to three capsules per day, with meals. If you can find an organic source of the multi-gland complex, that would be spectacular. The B vitamins are "helpers," along with the other minerals & trace elements.

Lectins remain attached to the cell pretty much permanently. Once the cell dies, it's replaced with a new, clean one. Hooray! As I understand it, the lining of the intestinal tract renews itself about every 14 days with an entirely brand-new epithelium. Yours has been sparkling clean for a while, so I don't think that is the issue. Try a glandular, and keep testing your basal temperature. Once it's in the normal range for a week or two, you should see better results in your muscle mass and in fat loss.

Thank you for writing, Geir ~ it's really nice to hear from you! :-)




Hello Heidi, I really enjoy this column and read it everyday. Your care and attention are truly appreciated. I have a couple of questions. I am bloodtype AB+. My first question is about plantains. I did a search and saw where you said ripe plantains had the taste and texture of bananas. How do I know if a plantain is ripe? Also I thought plantains had to be cooked. Is this right? Also in the books plantain is listed under fruit. But I thought it was sort of starchy. As you can tell I am plantain illiterate. Thanks for your help. Also I was wondering about a fish called Char. I did a search and found nothing and it's not in the books so i deemed it neutral. As I thought about it a little more I wondered if maybe it has another name or something. Just being careful.(I had some today sauted in a little walnut oil and man was it good). O.K. last question. This one concerns tomatoes. Since all non-avoid vegetables have no limits on consumption does that go for tomatoe sauce as well?(organic of course) Thank you so much for your time! Best Wishes and GOOD VIBES Mike

Hey there, Mike!! :-) Great to hear from one of you rare ABs! :-D

Bananas and plantains are slightly different botanically. Most plantains shipped to the U.S. are a hybrid of two species: Musa balbisiana and Musa acuminata (the latter includes the yellow banana we know and love). Plantains have starchier fruit and less sweetness than bananas, and are a traditional starchy food in the tropics. They make a wonderful fried starch vegetable-like side-dish when green but can be eaten raw when ripe (they turn color somewhat and smell sweeter, just as bananas do -- the color depends on the cultivar).

Char is something I was introduced to years ago here in NYC, at an Italian restaurant run by Yugoslavians. :-) It's a lovely delicate, sweet fish, Salvelinus alpinus (Linnaeus). All the other Salvelinus fishies are trout of various sizes and characteristics. Our char appears to be a sea trout... sadly, trout is off-limits for AB secretors. Did you say you were a nonsecretor?? :-) Hey! Now's the time to find out!! :-D

The vegetables are recommended in unlimited amounts in the hope that you'll get a variety of them, OK? :-D yep, tomato counts as one. :-D best wishes, Mark ~ thanks for your message!




Hello, Heidi: I haven't been able to convince my wife (an "O" who doesn't like eating much meat and doesn't want to give up wheat, diet pop, etc.) to stay with the BTD, but have had some success in treating her with supps recommended by Dr. D'Adamo for a different matter.

However, my question is this, what can she do to help prevent hair loss and acne? The hair loss started about two years ago, the acne about a year. The dermatologist recommended Rogaine and tetracycline. An endocrinologist, after many tests, thought a trial of metformin may be in order because the only abnormality was a high DHEA level. The tetracycline did clear the acne but the Rogaine didn't help much, and she still hasn't tried the metformin. She tried strenuous exercise regularly for a few months with no apparent change.

Her daily fare typically consists of either no breakfast or a piece of toast, a can of diet pop about 3x/week, no lunch or just a piece of fruit, and an average size dinner of a little meat, some veggies and a carb. Her caloric intake is less than 1500/day but she can never seem to lose the 15 lbs she'd like to, even when she worked out hard and even when she did try the BTD with about 70% compliance (although it wasn't the weight loss menu plan--she said she'd be too hungry on it and didn't want to eat so much meat).

Anyway, can you recommend any supplements or other advice for the hair loss and acne? She has about half the hair now at 39 then she had at 24. I haven't checked her secretor status, but assume she's a secretor because she's generally quite healthy. Thanks, again. :-) Todd

Hello, Todd! I'm smiling because I'm remembering my condition just before I started the O diet. I was doing a juicing and fasting regimen, "mucusless" fruits and vegetables. ;-) For the life of me, I couldn't figure out why I had

hair loss

and acne

:-) Those little troubles sent me to an acupuncturist, who checked me over, said the little problems were signs of much bigger ones, asked what my diet was, and said I was probably type O and should find out right away and start doing the BTD!! By the way, I was your wife's age, and I'd had the acne and hair loss for many months, just as she has.

First, I can testify that, as to the drugs, she should save her money. The Rogaine has deleterious DNA activity, and the tetracycline will foul up her GI tract even further than the wheat and soda do, but most important of all -- they're not going to work in the long run. Metformin is a diabetes drug, which I'm glad she hasn't tried.

Here's what the Australian DEA have stated -- bear in mind that this is how they approach diabetes even with ELDERLY people!

"Diet and exercise remain the cornerstone of management for Type 2 diabetes, with the aim of achieving and maintaining ideal body weight and reversing potentially damaging metabolic consequences of diabetes. In general, if an average of 3 months of diet and exercise intervention fail to achieve optimal glycaemic control, then pharmacological treatment should be commenced."

If your wife were willing to give the O diet a full trial for one month (no avoids) according to Live Right's portion/frequency guidelines, and eating a big breakfast, small lunch and smaller dinner (throw the calorie concerns to the winds!) I know that the weight loss would start up and proceed gradually along, and her skin, hair and digestion would be blessed with the changes. I'd also suggest drinking pure water to the tune of 1/2 ounce per pound of body weight, and continuing the exercise plan she started.

The "calorie system" honestly does not apply here -- she would see that difference immediately if she spent a month eating 1500 calories per day from grain and vegetables, then spent a month eating 2500 calories per day from meat, fish and vegetables. She'll gain or maintain on the first, and she will lose weight (fat, that is) on the second. Right now she is eating so little that her body is forced to starve during the day, then gets fuel at the end of the day when it's not needed. So, it's stored as fat.

There are some inexpensive supplements such as horsetail which may help if she's low in silica and if that is part of the cause of her hair loss. It sounds, however, as if she is protein deficient -- especially if it turns out she is a nonsecretor. Has she done the basal temperature test? If she finds it's low, then the "thyroid complex" product I mentioned above to Geir could help her, but she will still very much need that protein.

I've gone on and on, and probably been of very little help to you, but I do want to say that I applaud you for doing so much to help your wife resolve her health troubles. I wish I had an army of pills at my disposal that would be useful in her condition, but the fact is, the diet is the first and foremost thing -- without it, my hands are sort of tied. I think you're doing a marvelous thing, and I wish the very best for both of you! Let me know how it goes, OK? :-)




I am a type B and have been following the BTD diet for several years. Since type B's are dairy tolerant, I was wondering why ice cream is an avoid. I can attest that if I eat regular commercial packaged ice cream, I do get stomach upset, etc that I do not get with frozen yogurt. Is this because of the additives in ice cream and if so, then is home made ice cream not an avoid? I do not eat much of commercial ice cream anyway but do notice the ill effects if I do. Also now that summer is here, can you give me good tips to help avoid heat exhaustion? I had my first problem with this when I was about 22 and since then have to watch being in the heat and humidity. Thanks Joyce

Hi there, Joyce! Yep, you figured it out -- the reason ice cream is listed as an avoid is because most commercial brands contain loads of yuck. Homemade ice cream from OK ingredients would be fine for you, YOU LUCKY B!!! :-) sigh! Frozen yogurt with OK ingredients is even better, as cultured dairy products are ideal for you.

Heat exhaustion can be easily avoided with plenty of salted water (1/2 ounce of water for each pound of body weight, with a pinch of gray sea salt per quart) -- along with the customary precautions about exercise above certain temperature/humidity indices, which you'll see on every weather broadcast. Bananas and other high-potassium foods are a good idea. Eating lightly but maintaining your protein intake is also very helpful in avoiding heat stroke. Enjoy the summer!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Notes for Sarah C, GPF, Pauline ~ and glucosamine, supps & slugs!

January 21st, 2001 , by admin





Hi Heidi, Sorry about the mix up with Sarah's email. I have sent her an email a couple of times. One to the "sayrah..." one that you sent me and one to "sarah..." without the "y" just in case and no response yet. :P Thanks for everything. Nina

PS. My O nonnie sister went to see Doc Bron and found out she is an A nonnie after all. Yeesh. He was wonderful with her. You guys are the best.

Sarah C (who asked to be put in touch with Nina) ~ are ye there? :-) Let me know whether you've received Nina's email, and if there's some other address she should use... thanks, dear! :-)

Yep, Doc Bron's a marvelous fellow, ain't he? I'm greatly pleased your sister enjoyed her visit ~~ and that we've got her firmly pegged as an A! Hoo-rah! :-D




I am blood group type "A" and notice that Broad beans are listed twice, once in the avoid category and once in the neutral category. As I am really fond of broad beans, would appreciate confirmation of which category the bean belongs.... Thanks very much Linda

Hello, Linda! Broad beans are beneficial for A secretors (about 85% of As are secretors) and neutral for nonsecretors. :-)




Dear Heidi, Yet again I have to tell you that you are brilliant. Firstly I am so grateful that you answer my questions and it is wonderful to have your support. I must tell you about my Morphea lady. When I got back to her after your message, she said that she was so thrilled, she had stuck to the diet religiously for a month, been back to the skin specialist and they both noticed that the morphea was receeding, so she has turned down the steriods and is on the Deflect pills instead! Thank you. My Spondylosis chap is just starting his diet and supplments as are both my Ank.Sp. people, watch this space. THANK YOU.

My question about the Glucosamine Sulphate and the Glucosmine Hydrochloride is still confusing me. In the 1998 Rheology lecture that Peter gave he says that no-one knows whether the results that we get from people taking Glucosamine Sulphate for arthritis are because of the Glucosamine itself or the fact that it is binding the lectins. So I still don't know whether the Hydrochloride version will do the same thing. Would you be able to check on that for me please?

Another, final question....Peter has spoken in the past about slug lectins being brilliant for MS people (not snails) along with the stinging nettle tablets. Has anyone formulated a slug pill yet? I have been working with a particular MS client for 5 years who, up to now has been stable. She is starting to degenerate and I would like to be able to stabilse her again. Any ideas about the slugs? Thank you Heidi SO MUCH A big hug to you Sarah

:-) I'm thrilled you're seeing great results in your clients, Sarah! What a gem you are! :-) I'm most certainly not brilliant, but I'm clinging tenaciously to the coattails of those who are! :->

I will put the hydrochloride question to the experts, but it may be some time before I can obtain a reply. Whether the glucosamine is only binding lectins, or if it does what some claim, namely stimulates the body to produce its own glucosamine in the joints, is an issue which I think has not been definitely settled yet.

I do understand your interest in obtaining cheap glucosamine! In fact, were it not for glucosamine hydrochloride's role in veterinary medicine as an anti-arthritis compound, sparking subsequent testing for humans, glucosamine would never have made it to the HFS shelves. There are a multitude of items in veterinary catalogs which are either identical to the pharmaceuticals targeted for human use, or which have the identical effect in humans, and which cost half or a quarter as much. I do hope the hydrochloride version of glucosamine is one of these items!

As to the slug lectin from Limax flavus, I did an extensive search and learned a few things, but nothing in the way of a supplement form of the lectin popped up. Here is Dr. Ronald Miller's research description page on the Medical University of South Carolina site. And here is the only place I found online that lists this lectin with a catalog number -- indicating that they sell it. However, I couldn't find an English version of any other information/page there, and it appears to be a company in China. I will do my best to source a "slug pill" for you ASAP!

In looking around the online lectin references, I found lots of fun stuff: as one example, it looks like an enterprising inventor believes lectins can be used for birth control! :-D

Anyway, let's see what I can dig up ~~ warmest wishes to you, my dear! :-D




Hello Heidi! Thanks for your response to my plea for health help! I found out that I'm an O neg secretor, so perhaps my body IS fighting off my husband's AB positive secretor baby making juices:-) Like you, Dr. D, in his author tour talk, also told us that pregnancy can still happen for us (cross your fingers) and suggested green tea and Vitamin C (only from acerola cherry food source). We figured we got the "blessing" from the king himself so it can't be long now! Right?:) Following up on my previous post on not feeling too well...is it possible that supplementation can have an adverse effect? I stopped taking some of my supplements and feel MUCH better. Go figure! How can we figure out what we truly need and what we are already getting enough of from food? Are there certain vitamins and minerals that Os MUST supplement with or does it all depend on the individual? Thanks for providing guidance, your great! Susan

Hey there, Susan! you're very kind! Yes, you certainly may find that one or another supp is not what your body needs. Staying tuned in to those signals is the key to figuring it out, which you seem very skilled in doing! :-) For the most part, if you're eating a wide variety of beneficial & neutral foods and avoiding the rest, you're likely getting plenty of everything that you need.

We encourage supplementation based on: (1) the widespread depletion of soils and the long transit time between harvesting and sale of fruits and veg. Both conditions greatly reduce the nutrient content of foods; (2) the enormous addition to the baseline (or ancient) stresses in daily life. The demands we place on ourselves to earn a living in a crowded and tax-heavy world, and the toxic chemicals in our environment, are but two examples of what our genomes didn't expect to face, and which severely affect our need for nutrients and ability to assimilate them; (3) chronic illness, injuries, surgery, or drug use in the individual, any of which can require supplementation to bring him or her "back from the cliff" and set them on the road to healing.

I'd say the basic supps that a moderately healthy O would benefit from would be PolyFlora and Phytocal. Now, if one's digestion, stress response and general immunity are excellent (visible as shining skin, hair & eyes; only the rarest cold or flu; and no constipation or unformed stools -- and felt as a vibrant pleasure in living), clearly no supplementation is called for.

Sometimes a supplement isn't tolerated well because of the fillers rather than the active ingredients. Testing single pure ingredients is a good way to find out if you can benefit from them, and also to find out which fillers aren't friendly to you.

My fingers are crossed and I'm visualizing lots of little babies for you, dear!! Blessings, and take good care!! :-)




I am fairly new to all of this, and am completely overwhelmed by the wealth of information available on this site alone. there are no licensed naturopaths in my state and quite honestly, I don't have the time to spend pouring over books and info on the internet.

Anyway, my whole family is blood type O. I have two main questions at this point (If there's an easy place to look for answers that I've missed, please let me know.): I would like to know if there are any specific recommendations for (1) recurrent kidney stones and (2) osteoarthritis (in the hip).

As a secondary comment; I read Eat Right 4 Your Type and we have been trying to make changes in our diet, but the costs of supplements and special foods (e.g. wheat-free alternatives) are staggering. We are a two-income family that is barely making it as it is. How does Dr. D'Adamo propose that people implement all of these suggestions on a tight budget? We would have to spend almost $200 just to find out if we are secretors or not. I believe strongly in nutrition and natural health options, but we just can't afford it! Pauline

Welcome, Pauline! There is a great deal of information, indeed! The good news is that we don't need to understand it all in order to benefit from the health plan based upon it. I'll try to help you do just that.

In this country, we're accustomed to spending as little money as possible on the most convenience we can get. With the convenience (fast foods, sodas, microwave dinners, popcorn in a bag, bread from the "bread wall" in the supermarket) comes "food" with little or no real food in it. Few if any nutrients, that is, but a load of toxic chemicals, sugar and denatured grain. And most of us are locked into lifestyles in which every moment of the day is scheduled already, and every penny coming in is already allocated to be spent.

When anyone decides to improve her eating habits, she's faced with two elements: either spend more money or more time. With more money, she can get the same convenience she had before. With more time, she can spend as little (often less!) money as she spent before. Most of us end up balancing the two, depending on our situations.

That's what I'm here to help you with. To spend virtually the identical amount of money and time on food that you spend now, forget the supps and fancy foods. They're not required. Simply follow the BTD food list and substitute 100% rye bread for wheat bread. One serving of meat, one of fish or poultry, and one of grain daily is a good non-fussy basic rule of thumb. Not only wheat, but potatoes, milk and cream, and corn must be removed from your diets, so if that leaves a space in the menu, substitute beneficial and neutral vegetables and fruit -- these together should be the "bottom of the pyramid," or the mainstays of anyone's diet. If there's any product you use that includes wheat, corn, or dairy and you can't find an easy substitute for it, eliminate it and make a vegetable or fruit dish instead.

There is a third element, hidden in the first two: the willingness to change. I've kept the "change-challenge" to a minimum in my advice to you, so that you and your family can improve your health with only the minimum necessary adjustments, and no increased expenditure of money or time. However, if that minimum challenge is refused -- if we say, "No, I want the taste of foods I'm used to, and I want my arthritis to improve," or "No, I'm Italian-American (or Irish or German or Mexican or Polish or Hungarian, etc.) and I must have my traditional (fill in the blank) daily," then unless there's some "give" in the money or time category, my hands are tied -- I can't help.

For instance, let's say you don't see 100% rye bread in your supermarket. You'd then have the option of just eliminating grains from your family's diet altogether (and doing them an enormous favor), requring only the willingness to do so, and maybe saving you significant money in the process. Or, nudge the schedule enough so you can bake your own rye bread once a week -- that's cheaper than buying it. Or, spend time scouring your locality for a baker who makes, or will make, 100% rye or spelt bread -- or find an online source for rye or spelt bread (there are so many in competition that the price isn't much more than you'd pay the baker).

I've used bread extensively as an example, but all this would apply to any food you or your family are reluctant to let go of. What I'm saying is, 'something has to give.' ;-) Also, in every case, some tiny change in money or time will be involved in the beginning: the cheapest bread costs a bit less than the fresh vegetables to replace it, and the simplest changes require some thinking & re-designing of menus, which takes a little time as well.

About kidney stones and arthritis: I'll give you here some of the diet comments in the text of the Complete BTD Blood Type Encyclopedia -- without the supplements recommended.

Kidney stones: Possible causes: frequent UTIs, poor dietary habits, inadequate fluid consumption, and limited physical activity. Some thyroid medications and calcium-based antacids. (Drinking as close to one gallon of water daily, with a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of good sea salt in each quart, will do a splendid job on kidney stones. Get the exercise recommended for Os, and don't take any calcium supplement or any antacid (or anything else) that contains calcium carbonate. --H)

Reduce your intake of the following foods: spinach, rhubarb, beet greens, nuts, chocolate, tea, wheat bran, strawberries.

Osteoarthritis: Avoid tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant. (Use pineapple juice and ginger to reduce inflammation - H).

Pauline, I truly hope you got something of value from all this. Committing to this plan is WELL WORTH IT!! ;-) and I sincerely wish you and your family the very best of health!!




Hello Heidi, Re testing for coeliac disease, another way of finding out if someone is coeliac is to run a blood test for antigliadin and endomyseal antibodies. In the UK this is available from Biolab http://www.biolab.co.uk/singles.html (I am sure that there are labs running similar tests in the US) Biolab says: IgA deficiency is common in coeliac disease and this leads to confusing antibody test results in some patients. Patients with IgA deficiency are 10 times more likely to have coeliac disease than the general population. The test that we use also looks at the IgG antigliadin antibodies. This test is more sensitive and also identifies gluten sensitivity in IgA deficient patients. The IgA test has about the same specificity as the jejunal biopsy and is an appropriate test in full-blown coeliac disease. It is not sensitive enough to identify patients with a lower degree of sensitivity to gluten. It can also miss some histologically definite coeliac cases owing to the high incidence of IgA deficiency in this group of patients. Tom

Thank you so much for that, Tom!! It's wonderfully generous of you to lend a hand here ~~ VERY much appreciated!

If anyone would like to thank Dr. Greenfield personally for the huge contributions he's making to education and practice in naturopathic medicine, pop on over to the BTD-UK message board and express your views! ;-)






Posted in On The Diet

raw foods? hawthorn & gingko

January 20th, 2001 , by admin


I agree whole heartedly with Peter D'Adamo's blood type 'beneficial' and 'avoid' lists. However, I don't think he understands that there is a lot more that goes into making a diet work than the lectins in a food. What about the energy value of a food? Why doesn't this diet promote more raw foods? Mark in NY




Hi Heidi, yes, it's your "seedy B" (aka "seed boy") again. Thank you very much for your response (and compliments)! Actually, the impetus of my food intolerance question had not to do with elimination diets as much as my worries. Let me explain. Last year i was in really bad shape health-wise with very bad headaches and extreme fatigue and tiredness, which ended up boiling down to a diagnosis of migraines and food intolerance to beets. However, that was also before i had employed the BTD for food selections, and two of my main food staples were whole wheat and soy (just the other day, i was tempted to buy a beet to challenge the intolerance). Recently, i was becoming tired around the same time(s) each day, but there were too many variables to decide for certain whether the likely cause was diet, environment (recycled air puts me to sleep, even lack of adequate light), or lack of sleep (even though i get 7 or 7.5 hours per day) -- i actually think it is the lattermost or combination of the latter two. Anyway, in view of the information that "lack of variety" can exacerbate intolerance, i have made many [paranoid] changes, but don't believe the precursors to have been the cause, now. My worry about "don't eat the same thing two days in a row" is because i can only eat so much and produce only stays fresh for so long. E.g. a head of cauliflower can last me quite some time eating it daily in different incarnations, or a bundle of greens eaten daily could last a week; or seasonality and "what looks good" may put me eating mustard greens (mmm!) for a few weeks in a row. Having experienced a very major intolerance reaction before, i'm just a little more panicky than i probably should be. I've actually become less "die-hard" in my food choices (more neutrals) as a result. So, in short, i don't really know what my "question" was; perhaps just one for reinforcing my notion that what i've been doing is fine and to not worry about varying every single element daily. Hmm, that doesn't quite seem to bear a direct question for you, and i do believe a question occupies my bag of goodies, so... What is your stance on produce in regards to the raw foods and enzymes issue (let us limit ourselves to fruits and vegetables, as legumes and [sprouted] grains seem to be more specialized issues)? Should we strive to minimally cook, if at all, our veggies? Admittedly, one point for the raw foodists is the fact that most cooking reduces vitamin content, although there are exceptions (broccoli's vitamin C, IIRC, benefits from a brief steaming), and another good point are the wonderful bromelain, papain, sulfurophanes, etc. The main objection usually seems to be one of toxins or poisons, but here, the amount consumed usually does not give a significant amount, or cooking would not really render them inert anyway, or they are just being exaggerated (e.g. oxalic acid). So, what are your thoughts? I see that i'm quite the rambler today (sorry!). matt.

Hello, Mark & Matt! I've put your questions together because they seem pointed toward a similar group of issues.

Mark, actually lectins are only part of the basis of this plan, which you can discover by exploring the Research section of this site, linked from the home page. We feel that the ideal foods are those produced lovingly, in optimal surroundings, and eaten as soon after harvesting as possible. Energy is important, indeed. :-)

Matt, I sensed that you were pretty intensely focused on your food choices ~~ I guess saying "have fun with it instead" didn't ring a bell with you! :-} I believe that eating plenty of raw vegetables (and fruits, of course) is an excellent idea. I also think we're designed to do so on a seasonal basis. Most winter vegetables require some cooking to be comfortably edible, while most spring and summer veg lend themselves to uncooked salads of one kind or another.

It's difficult to get a huge variety of vegetables if one is buying only for one, or two. But if you have a decent storage area, you can store those greens or other items for the week, and then purchase different foods in the next week. After a while, I know you'll find that strict rotation isn't necessary for you any more. Your body's "threshold" for allergic reactions will have been raised through following the diet, which removes a great number of irritants and provides healing substances in plenty. I hope this is helpful! :-D

Heidi, thanks for being so prompt with answering all my questions. You asked what my tryglicerides are. They are 33....which is ridiculously LOW....Can't figure out how. I've always had very low tryglicerides. Not really sure what tryglicerides do. Yes, I use flax oil but not every day....The ground seeds often make me feel bloated but in small quantities I guess I could try them again. A fatty acid profile blood test showed me very low in the omega 6's. Even eating nuts and seeds, my omega 3s were sky high and the 6's were low. I had been taking fish oil all winter. Is it okay to use Udo's oil as a supplement to get omega 6s? Evening Primrose oil, borage oil and black currant seed oils, I know are omega 6 oils but they all give me headahes. Udo's oil doesn't. And it contains flax oil, but in balance with all the 6's. I've used up one small bottle so far and think I'm sleeping better since I started it. I tend towards low blood pressure and wondered if ginko or hawthorne could lower it further? I will get the red rice yeast and try it for lowering my cholesterol. Thanks for all your help. I really appreciate all your great advice. Maddy

Hi, Maddy! Whatever you can do to balance those omegas is a good idea! Hawthorn and gingko do not act on blood pressure -- they work on the elasticity of the artery walls, which is why I recommended them to you while you're getting your cholesterol under control. Peter wishes hawthorn were included in every breakfast cereal! ;-) that's how beneficial a basic item it is.

Take care, dear, and let me know your progress! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Os & As, all kinds of Qs ! :-D

January 19th, 2001 , by admin





Dear Heidi, I was perusing the site and found the following among the recipies: Fruit Cobbler Special. Can be used by All types. Description Wonderful for fruit and dessert lovers. Category Desert. Ingredients 1/4 stick margarine or butter according to blood type 1 cup flour (if wheat free, add 1-2 tsp. xantham gum) 1 cup fructose 1 tsp. baking powder (Featherweight or Rumford) 1/2 cup soy milk or regular milk according to blood type 4 cups canned peaches or other fruit according to blood type 1 cup water 1/2 cup fructose. I believe, it could be inadvertently, that this site puts some readers into ABO compliance error by not monitoring what ingredients are advocated in some recipies. I hope this small alert helps. Regards, Kasia

Hello, Kasia ~ Those recipes were submitted by readers, without our review as you noted. Many of them date from very early on in the website's history -- 1996 or 97 -- even before the time when gums were discovered to be troublesome, and long before the publication of food lists for nonsecretors (making both regular milk and soy milk avoids for some Os, for example).

I would hesitate to undertake a project of bringing every single recipe into compliance, not only because it would entail making each recipe to ensure the changes worked (!!), but I prefer having the entries show as they were submitted. However, I'll look into getting a more noticeable general statement on those pages, to remind everyone to check ingredients as they go. Thanks very much for your note, dear! :-D




Hi. I am wondering if the black spots on sweet potatoes contain mold. These spots are visible by peeling back the skin on a sweet potatoe. Though sweet potatoes are listed as beneficial (for O secretors anyway), they appear -- and taste --distinctly moldy at times. Thanks in advance for clarifying this issue. Nadine.

Hello, Nadine! Brown spots are common on sweet potatoes, especially after cooking when the sugars partially carmelize under heat. Black spots which smell and taste moldy, however, aren't what I'm used to seeing. Molds are killed in the baking or stir-frying process, as they don't like heat, but I think you're getting sweet potatoes which have not been stored in an adequately dry environment before marketing. They should be firm and smooth-skinned, no soft patches, when you purchase them. Have a nice talk with your produce manager if the product tends to be below-par. In a similar vein, I had the very devil of a time getting decent onions or garlic for two solid months until just recently. Damp, damp, damp. Let me know what transpires, Nadine, and thanks for writing! :-D




Dear Heidi, Everyday I read your columm. I'm 43 years old female and my blood type is A+. I live in Lisbon the capital of Portugal. I started about two months ago the blood type diet and I noticed that I feel better when I eat the beneficial foods but sometimes when I'm invited to eat at friends house or restaurants I just eat all the wrong food and afterwards I feel the bad consequences in my body. I have a bad problem with constipation, I know I include lots of fiber in my diet and I also drink enough liquid, I have the encyclopedia and it seems that psyllium fiber is good for me, I have taken the Solgar brand before and I must say that it helps just a little can you suggest some other supplements that would help me solve this problem. Thank you so much. Ana Bela

Greetings, Ana Bela! Welcome to our group!! Both psyllium and flaxseed (linseed, two tablespoons ground & soaked in some water for 15 minutes) are helpful for type As with constipation -- also, drinking at least four liters of water away from meals (with a pinch of sea salt added to each) daily will boost your digestive speed and efficiency. Have warm lemon water in the morning and evening. Another great thing to use is freshly-juiced vegetable and fruit juices -- they work beautifully!

The experience of eating the wrong foods and feeling the results is what most of us go through, especially at the beginning. This is your body's way of contributing to your ongoing education! ;-) You've already discovered that this diet is right for you, just by your reactions to the beneficial and avoid foods. Stick with it, and be gentle with yourself when you slip here & there. You have many happy surprises in store! Keep in touch, Ana Bela! :-D






Hi, Janet here from Donegal. Just received my tablets last week which you recommended, I had to order from America in the end. Still taking them and waiting for the miracle, but they say patience is a virtue. I am very strict on the diet now except for the lapse on sugar occasionally, just need to find some time to make some sweet treats with the veg.glyc., for when that urge sets in. I know in the book it suggests to eat some protein but I find that it is after my main protein meal that I get this real urge for something sweet. My legs feel like collapsing everytime I walk up and down the stairs, my eyes still burn with tiredness.

Don't know if you can answer this one but if my husband and myself are O does that mean all our 3 children must be O.

However, my questions are not to do with me: A friend told me yesterday that the 2 doctors in my local clinic, and their wives, one of them also a doctor, are doing the Atkins Diet as a trial and checking their cholestral, etc. I read somewhere on this site a comment in response to the Atkins Diet but cant find it. Also I looked for a brief summary to print off of the LR4YT diet, but cant find it, I thought it was on the home page. I would love to give this info to them and ask them to consider assessing this diet when they are in the mood!

I have a friend who I do reflexology and reiki for who suffers with migraines, and gets quite sick with them. I have got her to start the diet a few days ago, she is an A. I was looking up migraines but I couldn't find anything specific to A's. Have you any advice for her. I seem to have a problem when I key in any searches, including food values, they always say no known listing. I have to look through all lists.

Also my sister-in-law is pregnant, due in June, and a type A. I have just encouraged her to start the diet. She has epilepsy and not on any medication but has had a few little trances. She doesn't get the full blown fits. I have tried to find info on this site but can find nothing, also nothing in the encylopedia. Have you any advice for her also. I enjoy following your column everyday.

I find it very encouraging to hear everyone telling their trials and tribulations, thank you to them. I hope to send in some good news of my own soon. I would love to find out more about the courses you will be running, will they be announced on the website? Regards, Janet

Hello, Janet! You're probably having high-carb withdrawal, due to your dietary changes away from sugar and grains. It is pesky and horrid but does pass, leaving a healthier metabolism better keyed to run beautifully on the kinds of foods you're best suited to. And if you can resist the sweets now, the process will be over with sooner! ;-) small comfort, but there it is.

If two parents are type O, their offspring will always be type O. Lucky you! ;-) Some have three and four types to shop & cook for, a severe test of commitment I'd say!

In the News & Profiles section on the homepage, right under the Today! section, there is a brief comparison of three diet plans' success with ITP. The Atkins diet is mentioned there. Peter hasn't done a specific critique of that diet, but a brief way of describing the main point here is to say that one size does NOT fit all. ;-) There is a summary of the book Live Right 4 Your Type linked under the Library section on the home page -- and you can pull up lots of simple answers to common criticisms of the BTD by going to the home page and using the Search link at the very top, using "critic" as the keyword.

If you're having trouble with searches, you may be using more than one word. They work only with single-word terms. For instance, go to the bottom of this page and enter the word migraine. There's quite a bit in this column alone. Then do the same search in Ask Dr. D and Ask Doc Bron -- or, once again, use the main search at the top of the home page. Peter's column contains a half dozen articles referencing epilepsy -- just use that term in the Ask Dr. D. search. Cortiguard (specifically, Bacopa monniera) has been shown effective against epilepsy, so there's something she could start with right away.

The IFHI Conference at the SouthWestern Medical College (there was one this past February, and will be another in February 2005 to my knowledge) offer the only certification-track courses of which I'm aware for people who aren't, for example, matriculating naturopathic medicine students. Do keep your eye on the front page here, as we never know what will develop next! ;-) thanks so much for writing in, Janet, and keep those reports coming! I always look forward to hearing from you! :-D




Heidi, I am a 50+ African American O+ Secretor who started the diet about two months ago along with my husband who is also O+ secretor. Presently I take Glucophage and Pravachol. Is there anything you can recommend to replace these medicines gradually? I will follow your advice. Is the O blood type predominant for African Americans? Thank you for your column. Angie

Oh, geeze, you lucky one-type-family people!! *sigh!!* ;-D Identical types, actually -- Rhesus, secretor & all! And both on the diet! hoorah! That's a mighty good job you did when you chose your spouse!! :->

If you want to wean yourself from those two drugs, I'd suggest the following:

(1) Eliminate grains and refined sugar from your diet. I know there are some neutral grains for Os, and secretors are allowed some sugar and molasses, but to get your blood sugar levels where they belong, and especially since you are one of the "original" type Os, I'd take those items out of my diet for the time being. There is absolutely nothing your body will miss from eliminating them.

(2) Use vegetable glycerine as a sweetener. Not only does it do the sweetening job beautifully in every application, but it actively stabilizes carbohydrate metabolism rather than swinging it around as sugar does. For more information, have a look here , here, and here.

(3) Chinese Red Yeast Rice works better than the statin drugs for lowering cholesterol, and it does so safely and swiftly. I wouldn't buy the standard brands in the health food store -- the only source I recommend is the China Red Yeast Rice official supplier. Each batch is assayed individually, and a copy of the government-certified summary document is included with the order. Remember to use the telephone number (in New Jersey) under the "Contact Me" link if you have any questions, and that is the number I used to place my orders.

(4) Water! Drink at least half your body weight in ounces each day. For example, I weigh 128, so I drink at least 64 ounces (a half gallon) and often more. Very important: this should be pure, clean water or spring water (not distilled), and to each quart, add 1/2 teaspoon of gray sea salt. To avoid diluting your digestive juices when you've eaten, drink it at least 1/2 hour before and an hour after meals (for type Os).

I do not know the mechanism of its effectiveness. I can't explain it. It's more than just fending off dehydration. Water itself is perhaps the most powerful healing substance known to all of medical science -- by the way, it has electrical properties the physicists still haven't quite figured out. This technique alone has cured some people of diabetes II. So... drink that water, dear!

(5) If you're interested, pick up a copy of the Eat Right 4 Your Type Complete Blood Type Encyclopedia. It contains protocols for over 300 conditions, among them hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes & related disorders.

OK! Just following these suggestions should put you in wonderful state in short order.

As to the predominance of type O in African-Americans, I'm sure it's at least at the 45% level, and could be much higher (I'd suspect it is, but I've no hard figures-- Perhaps one of our readers has some recent statistics to share with us?) Among Black Africans native to Africa who have never emigrated, it is probably over 80%.

Thanks for writing in, Angie, and please keep in touch with reports, questions, whatever you'd like to offer!

;-D




I am type A, undergoing radiation for colorectal cancer. Because of severe reactions to the radiation (diarrhea, rectal ulcers) I must have food with no fiber. What foods in the A diet would be recommended? Lin

Hello, Lin -- I'm sorry you're going through such a rough time. Fowl and fish contain no fiber. Most people who must follow a no-fiber regimen do best getting a juicer which produces fiber-free juice. You can juice vegetables and fruits, and obtain the benefits of all the water, vitamins and minerals, and trace elements of the whole plants without the fiber. You'd want a "masticating" juicer rather than a centrifugal one. Consult your local health food store for advice on brands which remove all fiber -- they'd be most likely to recognize what you need and where you might find it locally.

I would avoid grains and nuts for the time being, since grains with all the hull and seed removed will create a paste in your digestive system -- the last thing you need right now. The fish or chicken, along with fruits and vegetables, will not create that problem. And do take some beneficial oils each day, as long as your doctor or surgeon approves.

Best wishes to you, and please keep us posted on how you do? :-)






Posted in On The Diet

Supps, Supps, Supps... and Salt! :-)

January 18th, 2001 , by admin



Heidi, I sent you a question a couple of days ago, but then it didn't show up in my "sent mail," so I wondered if it ever arrived. Can you let me know if you received anything from me in the last 3 days or so? If not, I'll redo my question! Thanks. Cyndi

Hi, Cyndi! When you enter your question in our online form, it does not pass through your email program, so you won't see the message in your sent folder. It just goes straight into the question database from the form. :-) The question you sent is in the column for May 18, which I guess you know by now. :-D

I just wrote to you but I'm hoping to be able to append this to my earlier question--if not that, then just look at it as a new question!) I've been browsing through the Encyclopedia, and I see a large number of herbs that I'd have no idea where to get! Also, my chiro/nutritionist tests supplements and finds many that are either weak or contain toxins of some kind--perhaps in the way they are processed. I'd want to get pure quality and effectiveness. Heidi, can you refer us to a reliable source (or sources) of the supplements mentioned, when they are not available from NAP? I feel as if I'd be taking a quality gamble by getting whatever I might find in a health food store--and many health food stores do have limited supplements available. Maybe Peter has some suggestions on this. I'd imagine he's picky about quality of herbs and such things! Thanks! Cyndi

I hear you about weak or contaminated supps! Just give me a list of the particular ones you're looking for, and I'll recommend reliable sources. I'm asking for a list of what you need, because this kind of shopping usually can't be done supermarket-fashion, since there isn't one place where you can get high-quality versions of all of the protocol supps. Talk at ya soon! ;-)




Heidi - Thanks for your great advice and positive spirit you show with all those you respond to. I am an O-non-sec. Great results in health since starting diet over 2 years ago. More good results since sarting Dr. D's encyclopedia protocol for candida 2 months ago. Started using pregnenolone 2 weeks ago after seeing some of your posts. Always had DHEA in lower rage and had a good Dr. prescribe it a few years ago for fatigue that I have battled all my adult life. I only experienced greasy skin, acne and no positive results so I stopped taking it.

The pregnenolone has had remarkable affects on my mental clarity, mood, and energy level. I had to take 150 mg before seeing these results however. I think in one of your posts you mentioned something about that what is not needed by the body will safely be discarded. I do not have time to research much but the little I have done is confusing. Some web sites describe side affects such as hair loss, acne, headaches. Some say no known side affects. Some say not to use more than 10 mg a day and to test every few months to make sure you are not overloading. Others say up to 200 mg is ok. The only consistency I found was about the occasional "hormone holiday" which you also suggested. I secretly hope it is true there are no dangers when used responsibly because I am having such good results (I have not experienced any side affects yet). Finally a question: Do you know of a good current source to find out more about dosage and side affects? It is so hard to weed through all the "research" especially from those selling the product. Another question: Would using garlic to combat candida also destroy the beneficial Polyflora I am using? Mark

Hi there, Mark! Welcome In! and I'm pleased you like our little corner of the netiverse here. :-) Taking the last question first, garlic is good for your intestinal flora & fauna balance, and won't interfere with the beneficial critters you're introducing with PolyFlora.

It's funny you're taking 150 mg of pregnenolone, because that's the dosage I ended up with. I gradually increased it by 30 mg increments, and I take a break from it now & again as you noted. The nice thing about any conceivable side-effects is twofold: first, they are really minor when viewed against comparable pharmaceuticals' side-effects; second, if you experience them it's easy to taper off and drop the pregnenolone and see if the side-effects disappear (which they would do within a few days, if that's what's causing the effects).

The stories of side-effects tend to be rather unreliable, in my view, and not only because of the enormous pressures upon pharmaceutical companies to discredit pregnenolone in favor of prescription drugs. Also, bear in mind that most of the side-effect reports I've read are lumped in confusion with DHEA use rather than pregnenolone use. Even Dr. Ray Sahelian tends to address a reported DHEA side effect and then add pregnenolone to the warning in that sentence. Maybe it's just CYA (covering yer... butt) going on, but I see a lot of that.

I have looked and looked for something specific to pregnenolone, documented, showing authoritative independent research that there are any side-effects, period. I haven't found it yet. If all I'm going to worry about is acne, hair loss or a headache, I'll be on the lookout for them with very little worry involved. By the way, I was losing hair before I started it (and when I lose a few hairs, we've got a major housecleaning chore since my hair is waist-length, LOL! :-D). Hair loss stopped for me. I wouldn't worry about your hair-line either, dear!

In your case, it appears that you've found a useful dosage and are prospering with it. If I hear or see ANYTHING substantiating actual pregnenolone side-effects, I will most certainly post it here. Thanks so much for writing, Mark ~~ Nice to see another poor ol' cave-diet O-nonnie around here!!

:-D




In the book BTD Blood Type Encyclopedia, there are several protocols recommended for obesity: (Metabolic Enhancement protocol, Antistress and liver support protocols) when several of these protocols advise the same supplement, or herb is only the first or recommended dosage what is required? Or does one need to double or triple the dosage if the same supplement or herb is called out in each of the protocols? Thanks. Victoria

Hi there, Victoria! That's a great question. Take the herb in the highest dosage among those recommended in the protocols you're following. That'll do ya. many thanks for writing, dear! :-D




Dear Heidi: Boy, you don't have an easy job. I'm referring to Sharon's message of 5/16/03. Just this week, I've had the opposite reaction that she had from adding salt to my water. I was feeling very tired, lethargic, etc. Then, I remembered that in the past, when my blood pressure was low, I'd add some salt to my tea or water, and immediately become more energetic and productive. It worked for me this week, again, (I'm an O secretor, though.) The way I learned about adding salt is from Dr. Lendon Smith's book, "Feed Your Body Right," (1994;) it has good info on blood pressure, (low and high:) "we should add salt or potassium, (e.g. lemon juice,) according to our blood pressure. If the top number, (systolic,) is 140 or greater, add potassium, eat more salads, fruits, vitamin C; (all within your Blood Type guidelines, of course,)and/or if the bottom number, (diastolic,)is higher than 85." He says a good diastolic is 75-85. Very timely topic; yesterday the papers showed the AMA's new blood pressure guidelines. Hope this helps. P.S. regarding elevated heart rate/pulse, I've found/read that it can increase when around cleaning products, perfume, etc. as well as after eating certain foods..kind of difficult to pinpoint. The book the "The Pulse Test" by Dr. A. F. Coca may help Sharon with that, too. Heidi, you're a real trooper to take on this massive project. We're all grateful for you. Let me know if I can be of any help...-Judy O+ sec.

Great one, Judy!! Hey, you shouldn't have offered to help, I just may call on you! Thanks SO much for writing in with this -- much appreciated!! :-D






Posted in On The Diet

Fluoride, Salt, Ginger, Veg Gly, Salt ... (no, it's not a recipe! ;-))

January 17th, 2001 , by admin



Heid, regarding fluoride....I have always used a toothpaste without flouride because it irritates my gums. I was just at my dentist's office this morning....He was busy trying to get the dark stains off my teeth (the backs of the front teeth). I was telling him I live on green tea and the stains are from the tea. But do you know green tea is rich in natural fluoride? Now that you've written about the negatives of fluoride, what about the natural fluoride found in green tea? Is it different? Maddy

Hi, Maddy ~~ As long as your only source of fluoride is green tea, you're fine. Green tea does not create dark stains on teeth generally, unless you're saying you're drinking far more than the recommended max 3 cups per day... ? Or is your tea brown-looking when it's brewed? It may leave a slight tinge, but daily brushing should take care of it. The only green tea I use is Mr. Itaru's (the Store here sells it), because I've been spoiled by it. Its color, flavor and aroma are spectacular, and my teeth don't seem to accumulate any residue from it. Hope this helps, dear!! :-D




Dear Heidi, so sorry to trouble you again. Just one very quick question regarding Spelt Flour - In Peter's book it does say this flour is ok for O's and B's. I'm confused as when I've bought the flour it says that it's derived from wheat and I thought this was an avoid for both blood types? Josie

No trouble, Josie!! Some manufacturers label spelt as "wheat," because it is an ancient plant from which our modern wheat was developed (along with other plants used as well). It does not have the lectin load that modern wheat has, and it's an entirely different thing. Looks quite different, too -- only two "grains" per plant, while wheat has many grains on a long "head." :-D




I have purchased both the book Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type and the small companion book of food lists for my blood type O. The problem is that there are descrepencies between the list of Highly Beneficial, Neutral and Avoid in the book and that of the paperback Blood Type O Food Beverage and Supplement Lists. Which one should I do by? For instance, in the Food Beverage and Supplement book it lists Goose as neutral but the book says to Avoid goose; Food Beverage and Supplement says Avoid Pinto beans the book says they are highly beneficial. What happened? I want to know which to avoid and which is beneficial. Will there be another Food Beverage and Supplement printed that is more complete and proofed better? Thanks, Jean

Hi, Jean! See the paragraphs at the bottom of this page for the explanation, OK? Also, when you posted your question, there was a page of explanations which includes this information. Thanks for writing, and take good care! :-D




i'm sixty year old lady who doesn't look it lol i posed a question to you a while ago about high blood pressure which you very kindly answered thank-you. now i've been diagnosed with hiatus hernia IE in the form of GERD i am taking medication for it called parriet i don't know if you've heard of medication as i live in UK i am about 70% compliant with BTD the question is this can i take the ginger juice you recommended on your website even if i am on medication? and can you suggest any other thing i could do to help myself get off the medication i have ben greatly helped by the BTD as i had a lot of problems with GERD for years before they found out what it was i am very grateful that this website is available to me thank-you again. mary

Hello, Mary! Yes, you can certainly take the ginger juice while you're on medication. It should settle you in no time at all. Also, at the bottom of this page is a search form. Enter "gerd" and hit the button -- there are a number of strategies you might use, and the columns which come up in your search will help you! Best wishes, dear, and stay beautiful! :-)




Hi!! I am from Brazil and type O+. Since I moved to USA I have heard a lot about Diets, sugar, and sweeteners. I'm not diabetic and I would like to know if vegetable Glycerine is ok for all types of O (I'm not sure about my secretor status) and people with or without diabetic problems. Can I bake using this product? Do you think that VegGly is better than natural sugar?? Is VegGly natural or quimical?? I think that I have been treating my self as a diabetic person trying to exchange sugars and carbs from my diet, can I became diabetic doing this?. I tried the Atkins diet for one year and I felt with no energy at all. I think that diet was good in the first 2 or 3 months, but then I went in a depression(I also had my feminine hormone level a little bit lower).I love run and the last 6 months I wasn't feeling like run. I was sleeping for 12 hours. I LOVE fish and I am not a meat girl but I can eat sometimes. I feel better since I begun your diet. I am not following exactly because I have been eating both beneficial and neutral food. I am back with my exercises (althout I can not run because I got Shin Splint). I have energy and I have been exercised every day!!! I love your site!! By the way what is my classification once I am from Brazil? Caucasian? Thank you very much for your attention, Bcha.

Dear Bcha ~~ Veg gly is fine for all blood types, whether secretor or non-secretor. You can bake with it, and reducing sugars and grains from your diet is the best way to insure against diabetes, especially for Os. Using beneficial and neutral foods is fine! just try to eat more beneficial than neutral, OK? :-) Brazilians I have met are a beautiful mix of Asian, African and Caucasian, which comes together to make... Brazilian! :-D Look in the mirror and think which one you most resemble, and just follow the diet that way. Using "African" is very safe (more restricted portions in everything except meats), but whatever you choose will be fine, I'm sure. Unless you truly feel you are African, or you have Asian ancestry, I think Caucasian will probably be the closest match, but you decide. Thanks so much for writing, Bcha, and be careful of shin splints! Run on soft surfaces, and stretch well! :-D




Hi Heidi, I have tried to take bladderwack three times, I get pain across by lower back. I took it in the pill and liquid form, both had the same reaction. I am a type O and need to lose weight. The first day the pain starts, I have taken it for 4 days, the pain got so bad I could hardly move and I had to stop. Would love to hear from you. Thanking you inadvance. Joan

Hey there, Joan! Well, it sounds like bladderwrack is having some untoward effect on your kidneys? That's the first time I've heard of this reaction, but I think you should stop taking it! It is not a required supplement. You can lose weight easily, just using the food lists and the portion/frequency tables. Eliminating grains and dairy altogether will speed your progress significantly. Do drink plenty of water between meals, and get some thorough exercise three times every week. Let me know how you go, OK? :-D




Dear Heidi: While waiting for the answers contained in my other loooonnnnngggg rambling email :), I'll send a couple more! The post on fluoride today concerned me. Woody an A and me an O have been drinking daily the Trinty mineral water. It has naturally occuring fluoride in it. To be exact, on the bottle it says: Silica based ph of 9.6 containing natural silica and floride. Are we ok drinking this water? At times it seems to cause an acidic reaction in me. My second question has to do with sauna's. In the BTD, Dr. Dadamo says something somewhere, (i can't find it now - but i remember it), about O's being cautauious in the sauna by wearing a cool wet compress on their foreheads when in the sauna. Is this still the case and if so, why? So once again, thanks for all your answers filled with humor and compassion AND PATIENCE! :) Love ya... Christina

Hallo, Christina & Woody! ;-) Now, what the heck is Trinty mineral water... I'm a little lost here.... How does its mineral content compare with, say, Gerolsteiner on the www.mineralwaters.org site? I'll be darned if I know what a "silica-based pH" is. It isn't bottled by Coca-Cola or something, is it? Don't laugh!! That Dasani stuff in the blue plastic is somebody's tap water, filtered and bottled by Coke or Pepsi or somebody. Look it up! You thought I was kidding!! :-D

Hrrrmmmmm.... Well, I'll be jiggered. Here's another one I'm drawing a blank on. 'Os in saunas, wear a wet rag.' Is it because we're so HOT to begin with? ;-D ...mmmm... prone to higher body heat or lower blood pressure? OH! maybe it's due to the adrenal stress, to which we are more "heir to" than other types? Wear a cool towel and don't stand up too quickly, is what I'd counsel. If Peter said it, he had very good reason (of which the 'why' may be difficult to ascertain, just trust me on this one). He is an extraordinary guy, and if God had merely distributed his extra brain power, we'd all be Rhoades scholars.

I used to think I knew all this info by heart. Thank the Graces for Christina, who reminds me of all I don't know!!! Love ya, kid ~~ and how's that Woody, or is it in the other post.... never mind, I'll check.... have a glorious day, dear! :-D




Hi Heidi, I haven't written in a while but want to say how beneficial your column is - a great support. I am an O non-secretor and recently read about adding the sea salt to my drinking water. The first day I felt fine but the following days I seem to have reactions to the salt. Is there such a thing as a sensitivity to salt? I immediately get a lot of mucous in my throat and then palpitation-like sensations in my chest. The first days it didn't last too long but today the palpitations won't go away. I just went to check my blood pressure at the store and that is okay but my pulse is slightly elevated. I am also getting more tired than usual. Each day the symptons seem more pronounced. I have been using 'Le Paludier' brand of sea salt from the health food store. Have you ever heard of this type of reaction? I know we need extra salt especially if drinking a lot of water but I am hesitant to do this at this time. Any suggestions? Sharon

Whoo! Well, first I'd try less salt. No more than 1/8 teaspoon per liter. The heart requires saline, and may have been getting far less than its due -- thus the readjustment as the muscle tingles around in its new environment. I'm not familiar with Le Paludier, but if it is a clean grey sea salt with nothing added, then it's not the source of your symptoms. I'd feel better in your case if you use a tablespoon of lemon juice per liter in the water instead. Please keep me updated on this, OK? thanks, Sharon!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Christina & Woody ! and... Happy Tax Day to the U.S.A.! (c'mon, give us a little smile... ;-))

January 16th, 2001 , by admin



Dearest Heidi... My heart just wept when i read the message about your Mother. I am sorry that you had to loose someone so precious. I hope you are o.k. :)

A couple of questions for you... I was taking Astragalus for the flu (viral), based on the recommended protocol in the Enclopedia and it gave me such acid reflux that I had to stop. Is this a common occurance for a type O Secretor with this product? It is in the 'O' protocol's(?)

Also I am confused, really confused on how to take the protocols as how many to do at once since there are usually 2-3 protocol's recommended per dis-ease and several products within each protocol. Is a person supposed to do it all or choose one or two products within each protocol? ! Help!

Ha... As far as my fatigue that i mentioned in a previous post, here is what happened. After I wrote you the desperate question on this 'unknown tiredness' and brain fog, (after being on the diet 3-1/2 weeks), i went on my lunch break and went right to the store and got chocolate and found myself in a chocolate binge! I tried to choose chocolate without milk stuff in it and other 'avoids' for O's. But I'll tell you right now, the minute I ate the first few bites, all my tiredness and fatige went away. Of course I knew this would be the outcome, but it also set me up for the next day of cravings which I indulged in, but then got back on track finally. Right after I got back on track, I came down with this horrid flu. (HA!!! No surprise there!) (sigh). :(

But at any rate, since I've had this flu, i've been too week to exercise and have had to rest and go slow. My cravings finally have abated and I'm not tired anymore. So I guess good news on the fatigue front! But I'm still looking forward to your answer to me on the fatigue because throughout the years during times of really sticking to my diet and exercise regimes, I have experienced it and even at one point had all kinds of blood tests run to see if i was low in anything.

Oh, and yet another question, while i have your attention! ha.. Is it safe to take 5-HTP at night (50mg) for the rest of my life or should I take it on and off? It helps me with cravings, but when i stop taking it for a night or two i get a headache in the mornings. And finally, last but not least... (hee hee), Woody wants to know if 'mineral water' is ok for him being a Type A and all. He knows he cannot have Seltzer or Club Soda.. but is Mineral water ok? You did mention for him to drink loads of it during his radiation therapy. (Love to you during this time of loosing your Mother Heidi...) Christina

Heidi! In that long rambling post, I said I was an O - Non Secretor! That is a lie! I am a O-Secretor! Sorry! I had to quickly write as to not mis-lead you!

Heidi! Which post can I find your 'Hammer it' approach for the Kale?!!! I'm so anxious to try this vegi and want to do it right so I Like it and will want to eat it lots! Christina

Christina! My sincere thanks for your condolences, dear ~~ Mom feels very close to me now, and I think we've both found a great measure of peace and an unforeseen "joining of hearts." :-}

I know very little about astragalus, but if you experimented taking it with food, away from food, and at various times of the day, and still had a reflux reaction, then it's not for you. ProBerry 3 liquid, however, should suit you perfectly!

In the case where there are two or three protocols listed for a specific condition, yes: follow them all together. Sometimes it's quite a bundle of supps, but they are meant to work together. If you're working on two or three different conditions, as long as there is only one protocol per condition, you can combine them. Otherwise, use the protocols for only one condition at a time.

"Fatigue" can be an exceedingly difficult thing for which to pin down a cause. In your recent situation, it appears that the change to a lower-carb diet triggered it. Tiredness and fogginess are common in the first few weeks among people whose grain/sugar intake is on the high side before they begin following the O diet. However, the metabolic adjustment does occur over time, whereby the body becomes accustomed to processing proteins and fats and lower-glycemic vegetables for energy. I think you're over the hump! so let me know if the fatigue returns, and we'll go from there! :-)

Speaking of which, your account of the 5HTP effects concerns me somewhat. Save what you have left of the bottle, and pick up some pregnenolone (cheapest brand available is fine, but make sure calcium carbonate isn't included). Take 30-50 mg per day of that instead -- first thing in the a.m. is fine. You can up that dosage to, say, 200mg gradually over a couple of weeks, but if you still have vestiges of fatigue that are relieved by taking it, we have another little clue: adrenal wear & tear. It should both calm you and your cravings, and support your adrenal function.

Woody can certainly have mineral water! If he can get the "stille" version of a good one, that's perfect. If he can only find a fizzy brand, just open the bottle and let it go flat. And how's he doing, by the way? Report! :->

Now for that kale: We put diced onion in olive oil, in a hot pan, and sizzle until the onion is soft -- then add some garlic, for a few seconds, then the chopped kale with salt & pepper. Cook it on medium high heat for a good 8-10 minutes, then lower to a simmer & add a splash of red wine and adjust the seasonings. Voila! Hammered! :-D

Hope this helps you both, C & W ~~ and thanks for writing!! ~:-D




Posted in On The Diet

Quartet 4 B ~ thyroid, colds, weight gain & sprouts!

January 15th, 2001 , by admin



I am Type B and diagnosed with hypothroidism and low stress hormones. My choices of a substitute thyroid was Synthroid, Armour THyroid and Nature Thyroid. The first I nixed because it was chemical based. The other two are pork based and I am Type B where Pork is an avoid. I am on 1 grain/day. What are the implications of taking the pork lectin? Will it negate the progress we are trying to make in supplementing an ineffective thyroid gland? P.S. I have been on your diet for over a year and I think it has helped me maintain weight, reduce bloating and gas and provided a general overall good healthy feeling. Lynne

Hi there, Lynne! I'm truly glad the diet is doing good things for you ~ makes my day, thanks! :-)

Your choice of natural thyroid over the synthetic is a good one. Don't be concerned about the source of the extract ~~ it does not contain any lectin, and pork is used because the structure is the most similar to human thyroid hormone. If you're interested, the book Meditation as Medicine by Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa and Cameron Stauth contains specific techniques for revitalizing the thyroid. Type B's tend to obtain extraordinary benefits through the practice of visualization, which is also part of those techniques. Give it a whirl, eh? but the natural thyroid supp should give you no trouble, so no worries there. Thanks for stopping by, Lynne! :-D




Heidi - What did I do to deserve this? I have been following the diet for 3+ years, and until now had only suffered one, tiny little cold virus during that time. I just spent eight days stuck in the house with a horrendous virus. Still having trouble hearing and coughing quite a bit. How did this happen? I thought I was doing pretty well at following the diet with minimal avoids. Aerobic exercises and/or pilates 4-6 times a week. I seem to get enough sleep... Is this part of the nonsecretorness of not being able to fight off infections until they get way inside? (Technical terms escape me). Or is this nature's way of saying "S*** Happens" ? Do you get sick? Thanks for letting me whine Heidi. Linda (B- nonsec)

LOL! Why did this happen? WELL YOU MUST BE A BAD PERSON, L! ~~;-D Do I get sick? OH, NO, NEVER! ~~;-D

It's a very timely question, cuz last week I managed to very nearly get verysick. I'd been running on "determination" night & day for six weeks, working very long hours, skimping sleep and forgetting to eat, OK, so that's stupid, I know. It's that bad habit of pushing limits in hopes that this time, it'll turn out I'm indestructible just like Captain Scarlet.

Well, then on Thursday, I was tromping around in the cold & wet doing stressful errands, and came back home to do some more distressing but absolutely necessary things, and for an hour I couldn't get warm and I started really losing altitude. I just sat here staring at my work ~ all functions ceased, if you know what I mean. A tiny whisper arose from my brain to announce, "Nope, no more" and my immune system blew me a perceptible Bronx cheer and lay down with a shudder. My world seemed to be receding at warp speed.

Alarmed (and warned by Sue's recent enjoyment of that ol' sinusitis/bronchitis that she and I know so well), I took two capfuls of Heallix and a handful of quercetin, drank a huge glass of water, and figured I'd tuck in for a half-hour nap even though I doubted I'd sleep. Seven hours later, I awoke feeling drained but past the danger point. I kept up with the Q & H for the next two days, but the nasties had passed me by. Too close for comfort, darn it!

I think your description of nonsecretor-ness & immune patterns is right on the money. Sometimes it IS just a matter of things creeping up on you (or into you) -- even when you've been exercising and eating & sleeping well. The key is to catch the little monsters the moment you feel them coming on. Sing "mea culpa" to the general vicinity, guzzle your anti-microbials & anti-inflammatories, close the door & hit the hay. My old habit was to just work through whatever it was... and I always ended up "working through" it for weeks on end. Bummer! much better to shut down completely at the first sign, and withdraw & let that ancient NS "trap & kill" system do what it's gotta do.

:-D Hey, you probably won't even have a hint of a cold now for the next who-knows-how-many-years, so what am I going on about?

Thanks for dropping by to vent, Linda ~ you are most welcome to do so, any time! :-D




Hello Heidi! I have a question conserning weight-gain..(again) I am using kreatin and a weight-gain powder containing proteins and carbohydrates. I`m doing kickboxing and some weightlifting. Is kreatin allright for me? And how about weight-gain products? Or should I just drop them and follow the diet, and maybe put a little protein `on top`? (I`m a B) Morten

Hi, Morten!! Well.... creatine is plentiful in red meat, so you know I'm going to encourage the latter. Getting it from its source will save some cash, too. As I mentioned back on 24 March, food will DEFINITELY do the job, no worries there. Muscle gain for a nice slender guy like you naturally proceeds at a slower pace than fat loss for the stout among us. It just takes steady commitment, nothing fussy or stressful, just plod along with the infrequent hard workouts, and always add a little protein here & there whenever you have some appetite for it. And it may sound silly, but spending five minutes just before sleeping in a nice visualization of being Schwarzenegger (pick your favorite, I don't mind) -- feeling the weight of your limbs and your strength -- believing, without questioning or comparison, that it IS you -- will have quite unexpected effects on the results of your build-muscle program. :-D Keep me posted, Morten! :-)




Hi Heidi! I have a question regarding sprouts. I am a type B with avoids such as rye, sunflower seeds and lentils. I was just wondering, as with wheat (an avoid for B's but okay sprouted), are these and other avoids okay if sprouted? Thanks, Andrea

Hi there, Andrea! Sprouted rye should be fine for you. For the seeds and legumes, the ratings vary. Generally speaking, the longer they're sprouted the more likely the lectin will be destroyed completely. If the bean or seed coat is still present, remove it and eat the green part only. Thanks for your note, dear! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

This 'N' That ~ and Readers writing in, with tips & tricks!

January 14th, 2001 , by admin



Dear Heidi, Regarding question from Pat on 6th April 2003, I am blood type O, my husband is AB and we have 4 children. 2 sons are type B, 1 son type A and our daughter is AB. We have all had our blood type correctly checked and they are all our own children,what about that then!!! I eagerly await your comments or observations. Sorry about the loss of your Mum, lovely to have had the privilege with her for all those years and bet you benefitted from that,but still a loss. I am also very fortunate, in that my Mum who is 86 years of age and type A, is still quite active and we all benefit from her in lots of ways.Keep up the good work!Marie.

Type O Mom & AB Child? Beats me, Marie! I've put out a call to the experts, but no one has come forth with an explanation other than "hey -- test the kid again." :-/ Now you can turn to your daughter and say, "Heidi says you're not possible, dear. What do you think of that?" Maybe SHE can explain it! :-)

I wish your Mum continued best of health and exuberant appreciation of her family! thanks so much for your kind thoughts, Marie! :-D




Hello Heidi I am an aromatherapist and individually blend body care and therapeutic products to suit my individual clients' needs. I have been on the BTD diet for some three months and definitely feel an overall improvement. While making up some blends the other day it occurred to me that some of the ingredients I use, eg avocado oil, may not be good for some clients. Should I take into consideration the blood type of my clients? Looking forward to your response. Dagmar

Hi, Dagmar! We don't worry about the status of food items, such as oils, applied externally. The values listed assume those foods will pass through the alimentary canal. If any organic solvent is used in a compound used topically, in that case I'd watch for ABO-related avoids. It goes without saying that any individual may have particular sensitivities to topicals, but usually you'll find this is unrelated to ABO. Thanks for writing, and best wishes for your success! :-D




Is wheatgrass beneficial for type O blood? I understand that the grain wheat is not, but I was not sure about the green part of the plant. Are pinto beans beneficial for type O blood? In one book it say that it is, while another says it is an avoid. Please help me to understand which one it is. Thank you, John

Yes, wheatgrass/juice is good for everyone. Pinto beans are OK for type O nonsecretors, but avoids for secretors. :-D




Just a note for John with the type O wife who has anemia--has she been tested for celiac disease? Anemia is one of the major symptoms...sometimes it's the only symptom. Treatment is eating no gluten (avoid grains except rice)...a few in my family have this problem...good luck! Jennie

Thanks for that tip, Jennie! Hey, John! What do you think? :-D




Hello Heidi, I'm here to bother you again. I am an A secretor. My question is about stocks from avoid meats. I note that certain meats are A avoids not because of their lectin content but because we As don't have enough stomach acid to digest them. Examples are beef, duck & lamb. Is there any reason to avoid cooking with stocks made from these meats or more properly their bones, bearing in mind there will be little or no actual meat in them & whatever protein is there will be fairly well broken down? Love, Sarah B XXX

Ah, hello Sarah! That is my understanding of it, with the only addition that it might be best to skim the fat pretty aggressively. Enjoy! :-D




Hi Heidi, I'm concerned about this new illness - SARS, as I prepare to fly across the country to visit my son in 2 weeks. As an O non secretor, I'm afraid that my body will just let this germ right in, (as I don't have those 'guards at the gate' that secretors have). Is there anything I can do to protect myself other than wearing a surgical mask? Thanks, Bea

Hello there, Bea! I'd use Heallix at the dosage recommended on the bottle. This is just the sort of "public health concern" that Leo had in mind when he created it. Enjoy your trip, and no worries, OK? take good care, dear! :-D




Heidi - My husband & I just started this diet - I'm an A while he's a B. What is confusing me at this moment is that whole wheat is to be avoided and yet Puffed Rice cereal contains wheat flour and is alright. If a product contains "wheat flour" it's OK but if it contains "whole wheat" it isn't? Sandy

Hi, Sandy! Welcome, dear!!

Puffed rice itself is OK. If the product you're buying contains whole wheat -- first of all, that's a shocker ~~ never seen anything but plain puffed rice in big bags with nothing else in there, but anyway... that's a no-no for you two. First rule of the BTD: Read, Read, Read Those Labels. Second rule: you guessed it, same as the first one. Lots of tricky products out there, so plan for an extra half hour shopping, every time, just so you can check every ingredient! Once again, welcome, and please stop by with any Qs that arise!

:-D




Dear Heidi, Still haven't taken time for the long question, but do have a short question arriving from your column today. You said salmon changed back to Beneficial, but is it still Neutral for O's (secretors and non-secretors)? I did check the Typebase, which still lists it as Neutral, but am a bit confused by the column of today regarding salmon. As always, thanks for your answers, and I do so enjoy reading your "stuff" daily, Abby



Allo, Abby! My understanding was that Sarah was referring to the drop in status for Bs and ABs to AVOID, but I think it would be clearer for everyone if I corrected that text to refer her to TYPEbase. done!! Thanks, dear! :-D




Heidi, I enjoy your information, and all the great people who write in with questions. Here is a recipe to satisfy the recent "crunchy pretzel" craving for Ruth. Preheat oven to 350. Stir one egg, a handful (about a cup, loose) of shredded mozzarella (I'm a B so I use mixed mozzarella and cheddar), and a tablespoon of olive oil (I actually haven't tried it with olive oil; I use soft butter, but olive oil should work), in a big mixing bowl. It won't look like much. Add seasonings to taste: I use parsley and basil flakes, but if you can't use cheddar, you may want something stronger, such as garlic, or salt, maybe rosemary. If you wanted something sweet, you could try diced dried fruit instead. Now pour 3 cups of puffed millet into the bowl. Puffed millet tends to fly everywhere so use a big bowl. Believe it or not, there is enough liquid in one egg and the oil to calm it down. Stir until it tends to clump. Spread it into a pie plate or similar size square pan. I use a glass one and it does not stick. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting or breaking into pieces. It will come out crunchy and chewy. It might make a good alternative pizza crust, too. I tend to eat the whole thing myself! Three cups of millet uses up the grain allowance fast, but it cooks down to less than two cups, so it can't be that bad... I've only found millet at Whole Foods, but puffed rice works, too, though it is less crunchy. I think the above ingredients are okay for all types (as noted). (Once cooked, the millet once again tends to fly about, so be forewarned.) Sandra

Many thanks! Sounds like fun with all that flying millet! :-D




I have a comment for Sarah (the one who asked you for Bryan's menu). I have found that making a chart to keep track of the portions and frequencies of the different food groups is exceptionally helpful to me (an A+ secretor). Without it, I would eat too much chicken and dairy and skimp on the beans, fruit, and fluids. I used a spreadsheet program to create a column for each food group (poultry, beans, nuts, grains, etc.) with the group name at the top and the portion size (e.g. 4-6 oz.) right underneath it. Then I left blank cells (boxes) underneath to indicate the number of servings I should eat. I grayed out the cells for "optional" servings. For instance, I can eat nuts 4-7 times per week, so the NUTS column has 4 white cells followed by 3 gray cells, for a total of 7 cells. Then I played with the appearance (using boldface type and heavier outlines) until it looked easy to read. I actually made two separate charts: one for foods whose frequencies are "per week" and another for vegetables, fruits, and fluids, whose frequencies are "per day." (I smooshed seven of these daily charts into one big chart and printed everything on one page so I need only one piece of paper per week.) Now I just print out a bunch of charts whenever I run out of the last batch. If this sounds too complicated, you could certainly make a chart on graph paper (or even plain paper) and make a bunch of photocopies. It will probably take a while to create a chart that you're satisfied with, and you might forget to use it at first (either that or you'll be worried that you've just developed Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder!) but it's worth it to free up all that brain space that is currently dedicated to keeping a running tally of everything you've eaten this week! And it has certainly helped my compliance level to see in black and white where my consistent weaknesses are. Just thought I'd share my idea--and I hope the description makes sense. Hey, Heidi, is there any way I could share a visual of my chart so more right-brained readers can see what I tried to describe? --Sarah in PA

Hello there, Sarah! Most of us come round to making up some sort of chart to get things organized. That sounds like a great one! Feel free to email it to me (click on the "About" link at the top of this page), and I'll see if my limited graphics skills are up to the challenge. :-D




Heidi, Thank you! For the food storage modifications. I have been trying for weeks, but couldn't figure it out. That one month kit is for one person. Highly Grain based. I will take it from here and send back the smaller kits FYI. I have a question in relation to the ER4YB in the 4th Trimeseter guidelines. (I am way past that, He is 16 months now, but still nursing, only started solids recently). The Super diet-Says Ben veg 3-4 times Weekly and greens 2-3 times daily=4 servings of veg a day- Shouldn't it be 5-7 (O Sec). I need about 2000 calories a day- Is this the lower number of servings or Higher or in the middle? Thanks for all of your help again-You are terrific. Angel



Here you go, Angel! And by the way, I go by the servings listed in Live Right, so that's the source to use. :-D

I would like to respond to Angel’s food storage dilemma. My husband (O non-secretor) and I (A secretor) are familiar with the program she mentions. Since our diets are so diverse, it’s been a very challenging adjustment in regards to time, money and energy. I don’t have any great general plan for BTD storage but I can offer you recipe ideas for O non-secretors using home storage in addition to Heide’s recommendations. First, a #10 can holds about 12 cups of spelt, and the same is true for Kamut berries. For vegetables and fruits, we use a lot of dried, frozen and canned items like pumpkin (great for puddings), mushrooms, onions, garlic, spices, herbs (like basil, oregano, kelp, etc.), pineapple juice and chunks. My husband has a favorite breakfast drink that I fix for him. I use two cups frozen blueberries (16 oz.. bag = 4 cups, and is a great food storage item if you have a freezer), soaked in two cups pineapple juice, (we even use the pulp that sits in the pineapple juice can); 1 can of pineapple chunks & juice; 1 large unsweetened can of pears; 6 ripe bananas (if there’s a sale I buy a lot of them and freeze the ones I don’t use, right in their skins). Then I add 2 T. or more of Harmonia Deluxe, (about 2 bottles of it lasts over a month). I have to divide the ingredients to blend two batches in our blender. It makes about 6 to 7 tall 16-oz. glasses. For Kamut ginger molasses cookies I grind about 2 to 2 ½ Kamut berries, enough to make 3 cups of flour which is what the recipe calls for and makes enough cookies to last him 2 weeks (3 a day). So a #10 can of Kamut lasts close to 3 months with just this recipe. He feels satisfied and happy and has lost about 15 pounds since last November, and in spite of the holiday goodies he finds hard to resist. He shot an elk last December and skinned and dressed it himself, and cut it up for jerky, steaks, & stews. I’ve made stew out of it using enough meat, dried veggies, broth, kelp, spices, herbs & beans to make lunches for 5 to 6 days, just cooking it all in the crock pot. I’ve just had to do a lot of experimenting with old recipes, buying storage items that are compatible with his diet and have on hand ready to use. The good thing about it is that I can rotate all these items and not just let them sit on the shelf. The “egg” issue is another problem we’ve had to deal with, since eggs don’t store for long term, but I use them a lot in his recipes. We belong to a natural food coop where you can get almond butter cheaper than at a HFS, and I read somewhere that you can substitute ¼ cup of almond butter for an egg. We also have a #10 can of powered whole eggs (96 eggs worth, to feed the whole neighborhood) which we have on hand for emergency reasons. Also, the Shelton turkey chili and Shelton broth cans from the coop, along with 5- pound cans of chicken go a long ways to stretch a meal. We plan to do some rainbow trout fishing this summer for immediate use and freeze the rest. My diet needs differ so significantly from my husband’s that I find it is easier to have my own individual menu plan rather than combining foods that we both share AND like, which are very few. However, I will not elaborate on my menus since I’ve taken so much time and space already. Hope this helps some. Sorry this was so long. Susan

That wasn't long, it was detailed & fascinating & very useful! Thanks so much for posting it, Susan! :-D




Hi Heidi, I want to share my source for vegetable gylcerine with you. The company is Azure Standard in Dufur, Oregon, www.azurestandard.com. They sell veg glycerine in pints ($4.25) quarts ($6.50) and gallons ($18.00) and they ship UPS. This company carries many natural products and I order from them monthly. I called before I ordered for the first time and their product is food grade. Hope this helps people who have a hard time finding this product. Karen



Wonderful! I see I'm going to have to put up a Veg Gly resource page! Many thanks, Karen ~~ I'm sure others are thanking you, as well!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Newbies, Old Hands... well, Everybody: a must-read Type A Testimonial !

January 13th, 2001 , by admin



Nattering Testimonial: Thanks for your response to my pumpkin question, Heidi, and for the invitation to write!

It was pretty much my only question for now. In studying the back articles on the web site and the Encyclopedia, I'm finding my questions are being answered, but I wanted to write anyway, out of gratitude. This is quite long, no need to print it on the site if you haven't room, but I just HAD to thank you all.

I've just started the blood type diet last month. I'm blood type A. I feel like I've been moving toward this diet all my life, but was missing the mark, like trying to construct my life from a Swedish furniture kit that was missing a few pieces. I put on my first weight around age six, after my mom let me take back wheat. My colicky baby wheat allergy seemed to have gone away. I've been wrestling with diets ever since. I went on Overeaters Anonymous with my mother when I was a pudgy little nine year old, and have been either dieting or "off the wagon" ever since, creeping back to my bad habits and interrupting them with various malnourishing weight loss programs.

My worst years were 89 to 93, after the Tian-an-Men massacre cut short my year teaching English in Nanjing by two months. I spent three years after that dealing with depression and guilt and work stress, and just let my weight spiral out of control, a hundred extra pounds in four years. After that I made better efforts at maintenance and sporadic dieting, but I still never made it to a healthy weight or a sustainable lifestyle.

Mind you, I was close in many ways. I've known that I'm meat intolerant from the age of 16 and have been a fish eating vegetarian for more than half of my life. I know that artificial sweeteners seemed to clog my system, and that sodas don't make me less thirsty. I know coffee keeps me migraine free. I know I need to drink lots of water every day or suffer all over. I see a good herbalist, and she's given me herbs and supplements that have helped me with skin troubles, mood, energy, immunity troubles, and joint troubles. I know that MSG makes me feel groggy and shtooopid. I know that pineapple is an excellent weight loss food for me. I have begrudgingly admitted that cutting out fatty dairy in favor of tofu and soy milk helps me lose weight and clears up any congestion I might be experiencing.

Yet in examining my diet against the type A food lists, I realized I was still eating like 70-80% avoid foods, and much of the rest were high calorie neutrals. I used wheat breads, pastas, rice and potatoes as daily staples. I ate plenty of sugar. I madly craved and cheated with dairy often. My vegetable choices were replete with nightshades, tomatoes, peppers, hot peppers and eggplant. I ate legumes, but was eating the wrong legumes: garbanzo bean hummus, navy beans, and kidney beans. I drank a lot of orange juice. I ate lots of bananas. I'm a good cook with a fetish for strong flavors, and had a LIBRARY of condiments full of vinegar, strong peppers, gelatin, corn syrup, and carrageen. I ate out often with my husband. Mmmm, dessert! Even when I was trying to be good, many meals that are nearly perfect in good restaurants like broiled salmon with spinach salad I had pretty methodically ruined with vinaigrette dressings and big servings of wheat bread and butter.

Doctors I saw were at a loss how I could have such a "healthy" diet, such low blood pressure, such a low cholesterol count, and still be wrestling with over 130 extra lbs. They ALL said to try Weight Watchers. My sister likes Weight Watchers. My best pal from my University days likes Weight Watchers. I hate Weight Watchers. I've never managed more than three days of it. It feels like trying to eat arsenic and math, toxic AND difficult. Now there's a lifestyle. Last year on the advice of a doctor who felt I should lose weight before trying to conceive, I lost 50 lbs by stubbornly returning over and over to the Beverly Hills diet, a stringent food-combining regimen, as often as my energy level would allow. I felt depleted and exhausted, and had to have longer and longer "time-outs" between my fruitarian weight loss weeks, but at least I wasn't doing myself the violence of stomach stapling, which had also been suggested to me.

50 lbs is a good bit of success, but it's been getting harder to sustain it, and I'd just gotten to the point of gaining weight before starting a new weight loss week instead of maintaining between them. Uh oh. The beginning of the end.

Last month two type O friends who follow the BTD diet told me about how it helped their health and showed me their Encyclopedia. I noticed it suggested that type As avoid wheat, which clicked with what my mother had been telling me for years, that I was a wheat-allergic baby, and that maybe avoiding wheat would help me lose weight. I was very resistant to that suggestion. I love wheat starches. I also felt pretty resistant to a lot the other things the book was telling me. The diet seemed terribly and pointlessly restrictive, so many things in my normal diet were "avoids", and so many of those "avoids" are so low in calories: vinegar, tomatoes, shitake mushrooms? Why could they possibly matter? But I also noticed that the "beneficial" fishes corresponded eerily to my favorites, while the "avoid" fishes and seafoods were almost all seafoods I strongly dislike or had begun to eat later in life as "acquired tastes."

I began to rethink the whole notion of "acquired tastes." I thought back to being a picky eater as a skinny kid and remembered that at age four I used to hate tomatoes, peppers, and vinegar. Maybe I'm not a gourmet who broadened her palette, maybe I've been inuring myself to poisons the way a smoker does. Maybe I've been paying for my poisons, just like a smoker does. Despite being a "healthy" fish-eating vegetarian with a low cholesterol count, my food choices weren't working for me, and maybe that DID have something to do with my blood type. And if BTD is a good thing, why do something good halfway?

I went meticulously cold turkey. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area near Berkeley, and I've got access to several excellent health food and organic grocery stores. The stores ain't cheap, but I figure the added expense is easily counteracted by doing most of my own cooking instead of eating out often. I bought tofu and soy milk, wheat free soy sauce, Ezekiel 4:9 bread, greens, pumpkin, berries, fresh garlic, kasha, black beans, olive oil, lentils, artichokes... I made vinegar-free mayonnaise and salad dressing, made "meat loaf" with puree'd canned salmon, bones and all, made potato-free "potato-salad" with Jerusalem artichokes, and made yummy rich pumpkin soup with fresh Indian spices. The only "neutral" things I'm putting in my mouth these days are the dairy free, wheat free brownies I make with lots of extra baker's chocolate. Everything else I've eaten since I started has been "beneficial", right down to switching from sugar and cream to blackstrap molasses and unsweetened soy milk in my coffee.

I've lost 12 lbs in less than a month, even while eating the food-combining no-no of "balanced meals", proteins and starches eaten together! I've lost weight eating blueberry pancakes. I've lost weight eating brownies. I even lose weight eating peanut-butter, whoa! I've felt satisfied, not hungry, and curious about discovering my new foods, not deprived of my old ones. As I was first shopping for the diet, I was rehearsing my apologies to my friends and family in my head, figuring that completely replacing my entire diet all at once would make me a whiney, angry, nasty basket-case, but I feel SO good. Cravings I fought from minute to minute when I was doing food combining, cravings that ruled my life even when I wasn't dieting, have evaporated into contentment and satiety.

My portion sizes have decreased naturally. Two buckwheat-blueberry pancakes are enough. A peanut-butter sandwich made with one slice of Ezekiel bread cut in half is plenty. This freako-bizarre sense of food actually feeding me is very new. I think I've been malnourished all my life. Malnutrition as fat. How bloody American. I've been compensating for food not actually feeding me by eating too much of it.

All through the diet world dieticians, hypnotists, gurus, and "normal" people told me to try and listen to my body, to feel that "enough is enough" sensation, to stop when I was no longer hungry instead of stopping when I was full. I never understood their crazy-ass martian talk. "Enough is Enough?" Nonsense! "Satisfied" to me meant not being able to eat another bite without being sick. If I was not bursting full, I was still craving. For the first time in recent memory, normal and even small portions are enough. I'm finding pleasure not just in the sensual process of eating, but in the warm, blissed, sated state of HAVING EATEN.

I don't know how I'll feel when more time has gone by, when the romance of the new diet is over and I'm trying to make it work as a "lifestyle," that elusive and abstract thing that I've never been able to sustain. I don't know how well I'll do reintroducing neutrals when I want to start a maintenance program. I don't know how I'll do months from now when all my pals who are good cooks start offering me their homebaked christmas goodies and saying "oh, one won't hurt you." But all that aside, I have to say, so far, this diet feels really, really different. My brain keeps repeating the word "FINALLY!" like I'm FINALLY coming home, like I FINALLY understand the impenetrable algorithm of "being fed", like I FINALLY bought a furniture kit with all the parts.

Yours gratefully,

Morrisa

Uhhmmm.... wow. I feel presumptuous adding anything at all to this column. Morrisa, what a thrilling report, not to mention a great read. :-)

From the report of your weight loss rate, satiety, and energy, it's quite evident that you've "come home."

While I don't want to spoil the many surprises on their way to you, I'll offer a brief prediction on what to expect when the honeymoon's over. This is a little saying I overuse, but here it comes again: in a relatively short period of time, the diet begins to "do itself." Instead of requiring ever-increasing vigilance, it builds a growing sense of ease and naturalness. Once you've been following it for a few weeks, that ease becomes the default digestive setting ~~ eating an avoid will prompt the body to send up a clear "spike" from that stable level. Further on, a handy Pavlovian effect comes into play even before the avoid has reached the mouth. The mere sight of the poison prompts an unpleasant little multimedia display to pop up on the mind's screen... replete with pre-verbal concepts best described as "Eeewwwww!" -- sense-memories of dis-ease, danger, frustration, pain, heaviness, a tightening of the throat and stomach -- and perhaps a flashing light or two. Something along the lines of what early agrarians must have felt upon seeing an asp among the reeds.

I'm going to stop short of getting into the neurochemistry of it all, but be reassured that by the time the Holidays arrive, your polite acceptance of a proferred treat or two will make nary a dent in the lifestyle (yes!) which has made itself your own.

At this moment, I'm just tremendously happy for you ~~ and most appreciative that you chose to share your pains & triumphs with us. Many thanks! More nattering at your convenience, please! and of course, questions are always welcome! :-D

Oh! I almost forgot: You might be interested to learn that one of Peter's hobbies is fine carpentry. ;-> take good care, dear, and do write again.

~~ ;-D



Posted in On The Diet

green stuff, reactive arthritis, salmon, the A-non diet and serotyping

January 12th, 2001 , by admin





MY ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE DOCTOR WOULD LIKE ME TO TAKE A GREEN FOOD SUPPLIMENT OF EITHER; WHEAT GRASS, BLUE GREEN ALGAE, SUN CHLORELLA OR BARLEY GRASS. I AM O+ AND I AM NOT SURE IF I AM A SECRETOR OR NON-SECRETOR TYPE. I AM ORDERING THE BLOOD TEST TODAY TO DETERMINE. PLEASE ADVISE WHICH OF THESE WOULD BE GOOD TO USE FOR O TYPE BLOOD. THANKS CRISSY





Hey there, Crissy! Go with the wheat grass, the Sun chlorella, or the barley grass. They're all great for all types -- but do avoid the algae products. Thanks for writing, and best wishes, dear!








Hi, I'm an O with reactive arthritis. I have been on the diet for nearly a year and have had a couple of months reprieve during that time. However, while I'm sure the diet was a large part of this improvement, I am once again doing quite badly and am wondering if there is anything specific O's should consider in relation to my condition. For e.g. is there some foods on the O list that are fine if you're healthy but should be avoided for reactive arthritis? Thanks Travis



Hello, Travis! Specific to foods, I'd discontinue bell peppers of every color, and tomatoes, for now. If you're eating the same diet as the one you followed during those months of improvement, I strongly suggest you pick up Live Right 4 Your Type and the BTD Complete Blood Type Encyclopedia, and order your secretor test without delay. I'd also seek out a physician knowledgeable about the BTD, including supps, etc. If naturopathic doctors are licensed in your State, that would be the area in which to start looking.



I strongly encourage you to use every holistic measure possible to calm your immune system. It appears that this is an autoimmune disorder triggered by certain kinds of infection. In attacking the invaders, the immune system goes into overdrive and keeps strafing when the enemy's already daid, if you know what I mean. I would use PolyFlora-O and Deflect-O (available in the Store here) daily, as well as one teaspoon of fresh ginger juice away from meals, three times per day (made in a juicer), and one or two 500mg cayenne capsules with meals, three times per day. I'd also make liberal use of a plain 500 mg quercetin supplement -- take them at will throughout the day. There are many additional suggestions in the Encyclopedia protocols, and I'm sure that following the diet strictly according to your secretor status will be of great help as well. Best wishes to you, Travis! Please drop me a note and let me know how you're doing!










Hello Heidi, I love your column; it's in my daily 'favorites' list. I am an A-non and have been on the diet for 5 years now, refining it constantly with your updates. Last fall for the first time in my life (I'm 65) I fell ill with an inhaled mold allergy which was further aggravated by copier ink fumes; all this led to a diagnosis of Reactive Airway Disorder. I'm off of all meds now and taking quercetin and Respiratone--and PolyFlora-A, of course. Things are improving slowly, but I still have to be very careful what I breathe. My question, though, has to do with menu. You have said that your husband is an A-non, and, if it isn't too much trouble, I would love a sample of his daily menu. I read a book a couple of years ago about circadian rhythms (based on research to help people adjust body rhythms to jet lag, working off-hours, etc.). The research indicates that the optimum time for our bodies to eat protein is for breakfast and lunch, to keep those brain cells working all day, and the optimum time to have carbs is for dinner, so that our bodies can make tissue repairs while we sleep. So I've been following that protocol as much as possible. What I have the most trouble with is sticking to the portion requirements of beans (soy, mostly) and grains (brown rice, mostly). I also eat beneficial beans, like pintos and lentils, spelt pasta (Vita-Spelt is delicious; comes in a lighter version than whole-grain, called Pasta D'Abruzzo; get it at natural food stores), and lots of winter squash and sweet potatoes. And I love oatmeal for breakfast occasionally, with fresh ginger, cranberries, and walnuts (yum!). Keeping up with the weekly portions of all these is sometimes mind-boggling. I'd just like to know how another A-non does it! I was fascinated to hear that his after-Thanksgiving breakfast was coffee and leftover apple pie with Kamut crust. Made my mouth water! Thanks for your hard work and excellent column! Sarah



Sarah, thanks for all your kindness! Well, I'm not sure Bryan's diet would help much ~~ yours sounds much more highly-developed. ;-) Anyway, here's a basic outline for any light it may shed:



Monday-Friday:

Breakfast ~ oatmeal, sometimes with fruit (could be fresh or preserved)

Lunch ~ a large salad with salmon, turkey or chicken

Dinner ~ more like a snack. Some kind of bean thing ~ like alt-hummus wrapped in romaine lettuce, lentil soup, or tempeh ~ and small dish of cooked veg

Snack ~ fresh or dried fruit, vegetable juice, or fruit juice (juices made at home)



Weekends:

Breakfast ~ scrambled eggs or buckwheat crepes with fruit

Late lunch/early dinner ~ turkey, lamb or fish with lettuce & tomato on sesame Ezekiel bun, or rice pasta with a mix of onions, garlic, green veg & chicken or turkey

Snack #1 ~ tiny salad with cooked green beans, black beans, raw red onion ~ big variation here

Snack #2 ~ almonds or walnuts & dried plums



Daily, one cup of coffee, glass or two of red wine, lots of water, mineral water on occasion. And a combo veg juice or fruit juice or smoothie, one each per day.



He definitely has that "starvation-proof" metabolism, since he needs very little food and does best with quite small portions. Lucky stinker! He really prefers very simple, absolutely fresh food made perfectly one minute before it's served. That's why he does the cooking around here! ;-D If left to my own devices, I'll make up several kinds of stews or "gourmet glops" and live out of the fridge and freezer for weeks without complaint ~ and I'm always the one to "finish things up," since he is no friend of leftovers. Hey! I'm easy! ;-) We do have loads of fun doing special dishes around the holidays, but for the day-to-day, it's very plain stuff. So, I do hope this helps a bit! Maybe other type A nons could share their weekly menus? thanks for writing, Sarah! :-D








Dear Heidi, Thank you for answering my questions so thoroughly! I appreciate your help so very much. Of course I have some more questions -- it seems the more that I read, the more questions I find! I am type O, I don't know my secretor status yet, as I'm saving up for the tests (I want to test my 2 daughters as well, age 3 and 5). 1) I am lost in all of these vitamins, nutriceuticals, minerals, supplements -- polyflora, bladderwrack, quercetin, polyvite, phytocal, deflect, larch, dgl licorice, rhodiola......help!! Where do I start?? Do you take them simultaneously, or try one at a time?? Let me add that I'm a stay-home-mom, and although my husband has a good job, we don't have a lot of money for additional expenses. But if it is something necessary to my health, I can rearrange the budget a bit to accommodate. Is it okey to follow the diet, and slowly add the supplements? I am just a bit overwhelmed by all of the options. 2) I bought spelt flour, when I got home, I found on the side of the bag a note that says spelt is not considered a wheat-free grain and is not safe for wheat-free diets. Argh! I thought that spelt was okey for us! Did I just find a bum brand? What are your thoughts on this? 3) I am looking for something crunchy to satisfy my cravings for pretzels. Sometimes, I just need something salty and crunchy....I haven't been able to find a wheat-free pretzel at my local HFS. I've found some wheat-free pretzels on the internet, but once you add in shipping and handling, they become cost prohibitive. I'm wondering if you can think of any acceptable alternatives. Thanks again for your time and input! Fondly, Ruth



Hi there, Ruth! I'm glad I could help!!



Let me go through your questions: First, there's no need to pile into the supps. The foods do the main work; the supps are there for special needs, and the only one I think everyone should have daily is the probiotic: PolyFlora-O in your case. The other two which are handy and very effective are Deflect and Phytocal. If you want the three basics, them's the ones. ;-)



The spelt confusion is on the part of the manufacturer who labelled it that way. You see, spelt is an ancient relative of our modern, jazzed-up, protein (lectin)-enhanced "WHEAT." Technically, it is "a wheat," but it is NOT "THE wheat." And it is quite safe for almost everyone, except celiacs (it does contain gluten), as it does not contain the lectin that is so abundant in wheat. Anyway, many people (including that benighted manufacturer) got a little turned around about the relationship between wheat and spelt, and producers are using protective labelling to distance themselves from irate half-informed folks who become aware that the two plants are so closely related. Spelt is neutral or beneficial for everyone except type O nonsecretors. So enjoy! (unless you find out you're a nonsecretor, that is, at which point we can start talking about kamut! :-D)



One way around your pretzel problem is to cozy on up to your HFS grains manager and see if they might order something for you. The price may be lower (they'd get a wholesale discount), or close to the Internet price if they add a big markup, but hey! You just saved all that money on the supps you didn't buy!

;-D While they are not pretzels, the rice crackers made by Edward & Sons ("Brown Rice Snaps") in about six or seven different flavors are a fabulous way to ease the crunchy-salty jones. They're organic, and nearly all of them are O-OK as I recall. Try to find the tamari-seaweed and/or the 'vegetable' varieties. REALLY tasty, besides being good for you! Good hunting, and do write again, dear!








Dear Heidi, I am confused with the information available on salmon. In the original BTD book it is beneficial for A B AB and O. In Peter's tapes, he says it is an avoid for B and AB because of the bovine connection -(explanation would be good on that please) In The Encyclopedia it is beneficial for A. B and AB and neutra for O In LR4YT it is beneficial for A. B (secretor) and AB and neutral for O. Can you please tell me what is correct. There is nothing in the Errata either. Thank you so much. Also can you tell me how i get my phone number on the Practitioner Registry, it only has my address and Saxham is missing the "h"! My clinic phone number is 01284 760020 (Great Britain) Thanks Heidi for all your help Regards Sarah



Hey there, Sarah! Well, he'd originally found salmon WAS beneficial for those types. Then he discovered some rather ominous news, and for safety's sake he published the new ratings. Later on, we found that the problem applied only to a specimen of salmon roe, so salmon shot back up to Beneficial again for B secretors and ALL ABs. If you have any questions about food status, they're all updated in the TYPEbase database, also linked on our front page.



A bovine connection? Could you tell me which tapes & help me find that section? There shouldn't be any connection between salmon and beef.



And I'll be glad to fix your practitioner entry. Thanks for writing! :-D








Hello! Jennie (B+ secretor) here...I've been reading a lot about these MN blood types, but I have searched endlessly in the book and website, and have not found out how this is determined. Should I just go to the doctor to find out, or us there a test I can purchase? Is it true that if I tested MM, I would follow the non-sec diet? By the way, since I wrote last, (remember, I had been tested allergic to milk, have candida, etc.) I have been eating lots more meat, fish and veggies and feeling much better. When I eat too much bead--Ezekiel or otherwise--I get really bloated. I've cut down on milk but I eat yogurt and that works well for me. Yesterday, I was sort of forced to eat at McDonalds and I had a chicken sandwich (BAD idea). Just wanted to test things : ) Well, I woke up at three in the morning and could hardly breathe!! I'm fine today, but I won't be eating chicken or fast food again. I guess those lectins are the most important thing for me to consider. Thank you so much for all your help! Jennie



Hi, Jennie! Give a call to 602-970-0000 (the SouthWest Medical folks) and order the seropanel collection kit. Then, go to your doctor or clinic and ask them to do the blood draw for the kit, and just send it via FedEx with the label included in the package. SWMC's fee for processing it is around $90. They provide full serotyping, including ABO, Rhesus, Lewis type (that's the one that indicates secretor status), MN, and subtyping for type As. And some food lists, but I prefer to follow the ones in Live Right.



Whoa! A fast-food chicken sandwich! That must have landed like a bomb! ;-) People don't believe me at first when I tell them this diet "does itself" after a while. Your experience in fine-tuning your diet is just the kind of "natural feedback system" I've seen at work in myself, and so many others. Kind of nice to know what to expect, eh? :-D thanks for your message, Jennie!








Posted in On The Diet

Foods ~ Recipes ~ Sisters, Kids & Families

January 11th, 2001 , by admin



Dear Heidi, Thank you for your response, I greatly appreciate it! I will follow your suggestions and let you know how I do within the next couple of weeks. You suggested Vitamin A (10,000 units) ER4RT lists Vitamin A as an avoid, do I still take it? you also suggested Vitamin C from acerola cherry or rose hips (250 mg twice daily) I cannot seem to find a Vitamin C from acerola cherry or rose hips, I was only able to find it with acerola cherry or rose hips, is that ok to take, or is it ok to take Calcium ascorbate? Would it be wise for me to do the liver cleanse from Julia Chang? Please advise. Once again, thank you for your time and help! Rose

Hi, Rose ~~ The Encyclopedia's advice on supplementation may at first glance appear to conflict with some of BTD's ABO-avoids. That is because a short-term therapy for a specific condition is a different thing from general advice for an entire ABO group. You'll see (even in ER4YT) that certain herbs, supps, vitamins, and foods are useful in the case of illness, whereas they are avoids outside of those specified situations. Lima beans for As with cancer, for example. Or regular vitamin A supplementation for elderly As.

About the vitamin C, a food-based supplement is best -- By doing a simple search on www.alltheweb.com for "acerola cherry powder," I found several brands of that product. Do that search and see if your HFS carries or will order any of those brands. Or, you can order it online.

As to the liver cleanse -- just read Julia Chang's site thoroughly. Other than what I've posted about my and others' experiences with her suggestions, all the information on the various cleanse protocols is there on her site, and I'm sure after "digesting" it all, you'll be able to make a wise decision!

Best to you, Rose ~~ keep me updated on your progress! :-D




Heidi ~ I really appreciate all the time and energy you put into this column! I've learned so much from reading your work. I've got a few questions that I can't seem to find in the archives. As a bit of background: I'm fairly new to the diet, about a month, I am blood type O -- not sure of my secretor status yet, and am gradually becoming more compliant (my frugal upbringing does not allow me to do a clean sweep of the pantry and refrigertor - so I am using up "avoids" and replacing with beneficials). I do exercise regularly at a gym, lifting weights and doing various kinds of cardio. Now, for the questions: 1) Which fish are cold-water, richly-oiled fish? I found this type to be a recommendation, but I'm not certain exactly which ones that description would refer to. 2) Is there a "best" brand of green tea, both beneficially and also taste-wise? At my HFS, I find quite a number of options, and don't know which to choose, so I just picked one, but I don't love it yet. As a former coffee drinker, I switching to green tea -- is it okey to put a little honey and a bit of milk in the tea to make it more palatable? I LOVED my coffee! 3) In your alternative ranch dressing a few days ago, you recommended a mayonnaise made with raw eggs. Is it okey to eat raw eggs now, as I remember it used to be a health concern? 4) Besides the ranch dressing recipe, do you have any other ideas for alternatives for vegetable dips? I love crudite, but I think mostly because of the dips! I'm looking for other things to dip my raw veggies into, as the dips I've found all start with sour cream. 5) Red wine is a neutral or beneficial, white wine is an avoid for me -- what about rose wine? I can't find anything about it on the previous topics under your column or the good doctors' columns,and rose is my wine of choice. I think that's enough questions for now! Thank you very much for your time! You are a God-send! Fondly, ~Ruth

Hi, Ruth! Glad you stopped by ~~ welcome to our healthy little corner of the Netiverse!

Many of the fish referred to are listed as Beneficial in the fish section of the food lists. Mackerel, monkfish, salmon, sardines ~ rather than the delicate ones such as sole, trout, or snapper for instance, which require more moisture in the cooking process.

My vote for the best brand of green tea is Mr. Itaru's, sold in the Store on this site. It's a blend of green tea and toasted brown rice, and it's magnificent -- like night & day compared to the kind that comes in teabags and has a bit of a brownish color. I've never put anything else in it at all, I wouldn't dream of obscuring the flavor in any way. ;-)

For dips? I just hunt up a regular recipe on the Net or cookbook, then create my own and taste-test it 'till it's what I want it to be. You can do this with hummus, for example -- with black beans instead of chickpeas, then I add the lemon juice, olive oil, tahini and fresh garlic, and adjust the olive oil (and/or add some water) until I have the desired consistency ~~ a thick spread, or a thin dip. In fact, there is a recipe in RECIbase® (also linked in the middle of the home page) for hummus, which you can adapt with any bean you like. :-)

Opinions abound on whether we should ever eat raw eggs. I've been making homemade mayonnaise with raw eggs from clean, free-ranged, organically-fed chickens for a long time, and have never encountered a problem. Check the eggs thoroughly for any crack or disfiguration, and wash them with an antibacterial soap, rinse & dry thoroughly before proceeding. That's icing on the cake, really, if the source of the eggs is high-quality, but it's worth mentioning as a precaution. And remember that for a very long time, and every day! chefs the world over have been making make mayonnaise, classic Caesar salad, and a variety of other foods, using raw eggs (and rarely of the quality that I use). So! I think the risk is minimal, but of course, feel free to decide based on what makes most sense to you.

Rosé wine is most likely a low-grade avoid, depending on the quality of the individual product. Some tend to be quite sweet, and share with white wine an overabundance of added sulfites to produce that sweetness. If you don't mind a suggestion, you might try to move your tastes toward red wine by starting with a light, fruity one. Ask your wine merchant to direct you to some varietals of that kind ~~ tell him we sent you there for your health! ;-D

Once again, glad to see you, Ruth ~~ let me know if any more questions crop up! :-D




Hi! I have recently made incrimental changes to my diet after reading "Live Right for Your Type". I am a healthy type A 30 year old active female. I do not yet know my secretor status. I have 2 questions: The lists in the mentioned book say to avoid Garbanzo beans. But I am addicted to hummus, a middle eastern/mediterranean dip made with garbanzo beans. I also drink chai (black spicy tea), which I know is an avoid for 1 of the secretor status's. Am I doing damage to my health by eating these, say...5-7 times per week? Also, I am taking the supplement chromium picolinate daily after meals. Is there any known harm in this for type A's? Any insight you could offer would be beneficial. Vesteen

Hello, Vesteen! Conveniently, Ruth & I (just above) were discussing dips, and I offered my my alternative hummus approach there. See what you think! It takes about 15 minutes to make if you use canned beans, like Eden or Westbrae organics. My "recipe" is the basic one, and if, like I used to be, you're a fan of some particular variety of that Old Avoid Hummus (for me it was roasted red pepper & garlic), just add that ingredient yourself if it's on your list... or substitute another similar item. Believe me, if you eat hummus daily, it is WELL worth your while to make it fresh at home once or twice per week. Dosing yourself with chickpeas most days of the week will significantly slow your progress -- and may be stimulating the cravings you're trying to control with the chromium. Another excellent reason to make your own is: it tastes better! Very fresh, and the flavors just leap out at ya! ;-) so, read the ingredients on your favorite hummus, pick up what you need at the organic grocer, and get cooking!

The stimulating and stomach-irritating effects of the black tea will play havoc with you if you're a secretor. Like the chickpeas, they're not what you need if you're trying to lose weight. But I'll cut a deal with you: ;-) if you promise to avoid the chickpeas absolutely, AND if you're going to get your secretor status without delay, then one Chai per day (soy milk, no dairy) is OK for now. If you discover you're a secretor, that will be the time to wean off it -- and if you're a nonsecretor, then the black tea is neutral. Thanks for writing, and do keep in touch! :-D




Hi Heidi, Well this question is not about me this time. But thanks for your tips for me (tired A2 neg non-secretor MN), which I am following and will relay more details later. This one is about my sister Brooke who does not have a computer. She is 28 and an O+ non-secretor NN. She has had recurring UTIs and cannot completely empty her bladder any longer. She also has a salivary cyst that has grown but seems to shrink when she stays on the diet. :) The doctor wants to surgically remove. She reacts strongly when she goes off the blood type diet, which she tends to do socially. She also thinks she has celiacs disease but I think it is related to her non-secretor status. This is my question. She just learned about the non-secretor status and NN subgroup. How does a Blood Type O non-secretor reduce fat and cholesterol containing foods due to NN subgroup? How should she best proceed? Also she is trying to get pregnant and does not want to take any supplements that may affect that. Thank you for all of your support and guidance. It is much appreciated. Nina

Hey there, Nina ~~

I'll be happy to answer your questions... I have some observations, as well, which of course you're free to ignore if I've poked my neb in too far! ;-) Your sister seems to have found out that being on the diet (1) shrinks her cyst, and could save her from surgery; and (2) alleviates celiac-like symptoms. With her health history and nonsecretor status, the best way to proceed is to eliminate all gluten grains from her diet and follow her food list very strictly. Once a couple of weeks goes by, this will become far easier and soon will be automatic for her. It's just the starting-in that's difficult ~ but we only have to do that once! :-)

Regarding her NN status: the nonsecretor diet is designed to encompass that concern, including the lower frequency recommended for fats & oils. First, she should have her fasting cholesterol levels tested, then get the non-fasting levels after a normal meal including red meat, vegetables and some olive or coconut oil. That result will tell her if she needs to reduce fat and/or cholesterol from the quantities she customarily consumes.

The new Eat Right 4 Your Baby book just out has advice on foods & supps to avoid during various stages of pregnancy. But I want to counsel her that every wise person I know or have read would say, "Be in optimal health before attempting to conceive, not only for the baby but for yourself." Pregnancy is a major event in the body and the mind, and places enormous demands upon the every physical system and emotional resource. In reading your post, I was imagining how her bladder condition alone would worsen with the added pressure of pregnancy ... and what her bowel problems would be like, once the hormonal changes began to challenge her digestive system.

So, just as a footnote: she's a *young* woman with some fairly serious conditions right now. Isn't it worth a strong, happy pregnancy and a healthy baby, to spend the time to resolve those problems before getting pregnant? That's me poking my neb in. I'd feel irresponsible if I didn't, so I hope you don't mind. :-}

A note just for you, Nina ~~ I'm sure you love your sister, and want to give her all the best things in life. Ultimately, the choices are hers, of course. I do hope all goes well with her ~~ and with you! thanks for writing, dear!

:->




My daughter is 14 months old and is currently being diagnosed as having psoriasis. Her blood type is O and I would like to start her on the Type O diet (although almost all doctors say the disease is nothing to do with diet). Anyway, being a Type O person, one should first avoid both dairy products and grains. However as a baby, her major diet is millk formula, rice and noodles, what should I do then? Of course, she does eat a lot of vegetables, fruits and meat (chicken and fish only). Yet, if I were to avoid all food in the "avoid" lists, will that deprive her from getting the necessary nutrients? Is the diet that you recommend suitable for babies? I am actually planning to change her milk-based formula to soy-based one, will that help? Please advise. Diana

Hi, Diana! Yes, she should have no avoids at all. VERY important in the first months of life! As you can see, psoriasis has developed due to the wheat and dairy she has been eating -- these are major causes for skin and digestive problems in type O. There is not a single element in any grain that is necessary for her. She belongs to the long line of hunter-gatherer physiologies, among whom grain was almost never eaten at all, and for whom our modern diseases like psoriasis were entirely unknown. Trust it!

Since she eats so well, and since commercial (as distinct from homemade) formulas contain so much junk in the way of synthetic vitamins and sweeteners, you could save money now and through her life (not only on formula, but on medical bills, too!) by

(1) purchasing a juicer and giving her some carrot/celery juice instead of the formula. You can add a teaspoon of olive or flax oil to each bottle, and shake it well. She must have those oils for her skin's healing.

(2) letting her have some blended blueberry/cherry (any beneficial fruit) with a teaspoonful of good nutritional yeast, such as "KAL" brand (no dairy, etc.). Daily. Just thin the blended mixture with water, at least 1/2 and 1/2.

(3) eliminating milk and wheat (and corn, including corn starch, corn syrup, dextrose, any sweetener or thickener made from corn) and sugar from her diet entirely.

(3) adding a little red meat, like beef or lamb, once per day.

And keep up with the fish (especially oily fish), since it provides such great protein AND beneficial oils for her healing and continued mental & physical development!! as well as the vegetables, of course -- and some well-cooked beneficial Swiss chard or other dark leafy veg is definitely recommended, as she needs her folic acid!

Diana, please be reassured that the formulas, the dairy, the wheat, corn and sugar give her nothing that she will ever need or miss for a healthy life. I know parents who have started their babies' diets from day one on breastfeeding and then the blood type diet, and they've been amazed how all the expected childhood health difficulties just didn't happen. ;-) So, do get started right away, and I would be so pleased if you'd let me know how she (and YOU!) are doing, dear! Drop me a note when you can, OK? :-D




Heidi, First thanks for all the detailed responses you've provided on this site! I've spent the past couple of weeks reading everyone of the questions and your answers. Have also read BTD and Live R4YT. My two daughters (ages 7 and 12 years old) are Os, as are my husband and myself, but secretor status is unknown. Each year, from about November to March, my children are ill with one thing after another, mostly respiratory. This year they also had strep 3 times. My oldest daughter was tested for food allergies several years ago, and interestingly, she tested positive for allergies to all the things Dr. D'Adamo says are bad for Os. The problem is, I can't get her or my husband to follow the diet, and my youngest wants to eat what they're having. It's frustrating as the mom to have to see my children getting sick so often (and having to care for sick children!) and to feel so powerless to change things. Any suggestions? Dairy isn't a problem because their allergies are so strong, but wheat & corn (which are in everything in one form or another), potatoes and bacon are all very hard to keep them away from (kids all seem to eat sandwiches, toast, chips, sodas). I've tried alternative brown rice pasta which works great, but the alternative flour breads don't appeal. Also, do you think that they're getting sick so much because of their diets? I've wracked my brain trying to figure out how to improve their resistance! Again, thanks for your help. I understand that you can't answer every question. --- Kay

Hi there, Kay ~~ Well, I sure do think they're getting sick on a regular basis because of their diets. Mind you, I was a healthy kid, but even as an adult *I* got sick on an "organic, whole-grain" version of the diet they're eating!

I'm smiling because it sounds like you have a feisty type O family on your hands. Dad poo-poohs the diet, your daughter follows suit because she perceives Dad will support her, and the youngest grabs their coattails & rides along, and no one but you has the wisdom to see that it's causing all the illnesses. Kay, you're not powerless -- you're the smart one! You're just out there on the front lines every day, with no support at all in the house for what you're trying to do. In this, you are NOT alone, believe me! It's a common situation among people who want to change their family's diets. Resistance is reported far more frequently than compliance, especially among husbands & 12-year olds. ;-D

OK. There are ways to do this, so I'll suggest a few, and perhaps one of them will fit your bill.

I'd start with your husband.

The success of this plan depends on creating an approach suitable for the personalities in your family. For instance: if your husband isn't particularly impressed with the medical profession (as it seems, since the allergy tests didn't convince him his daughter should modify her diet), then he might respond to facts about money.

Put together a summary of how much was spent on antibiotics, shots, doctor's visits, lab reports, medication, noting lost school time, lost work time perhaps, etc. etc. in the past twelve months. Add in the amounts the kids spend on junk food -- or what it costs to keep it in the house.

Then put together a summary of costs over same period of time if you eliminated the junk (including potatoes, bacon, dairy and wheat) and fed them according to their proper diet. The key here is to note that you might have a cold or flu here & there in the first few months (which you can treat with fluids, vitamin C and quercetin -- NO antibiotics ever, please! ;-)), but after that, the kids' immune systems will be MUCH stronger, and the illnesses will become a thing of the past.

I'd sit your husband down privately, show him the summaries, and very quietly explain that the illnesses are costly, and a shame, and you would like his support JUST for a month in giving the kids their correct foods in order to decide once & for all if it means the family won't have to suffer through the sicknesses. To help you, he can either forego his usual taters & bacon, or he can at least promise to support you and not fall in with the kids if they beg for the poisons.

If he refuses, then it's time to have a chat with your daughters without Dad present. Did either of the girls have some event that they really wanted to attend, but missed it because they were sick? Did they have to attend school later or go to extra classes -- were they inconvenienced by being ill? Did they miss a grade or get a failing mark because of the time spent home? Point these things out, and tell them that while Dad is an adult and has the right to eat however he chooses, you're responsible for them, their health and making their lives as happy as you can make them, but you need their help. Ask them if they will follow the diet for a week, on a promise. See if you can get their willing cooperation, just for that time. If you can -- great! Talk to them at the end of the week and see how they feel about continuing.

Maybe they'd respond to a more creative approach? like reading them the story of their blood type, and how they're so much like whatever female heroine (of your choice) who they like? and what they have to do to stay strong? Plenty of models and actors follow this plan, and that may give you some leverage.

If all of this fails, it's time to let them go their own way. Never mention the blood type diet again, and avoid the subject altogether. Just follow it as best you can, and smile at questions or comments. I would, however, mention to the kid who next gets sick that this could have been avoided -- then smile, and say no more. You deserve some peace in your own house. ;-)

I do have a tiny panacea for you, in regard to the illnesses -- but only if they're willing to take it. In the Store here is a product called ProBerry 3 syrup, which is a really tasty fruit concentrate. Two teaspoonsful daily will do amazing things for their resistance. It's an antiviral compound, believe it or not, all made of fruit.

Right now, go straight to www.heallix.com and order a bottle of Heallix. A capful in a glass of distilled water, given once or twice at the first sign of illness, can easily ward it off. This is an antimicrobial, to be used on an as-needed basis, and it is absolutely safe for children.

OK! My dear, I wish you the best of luck!! And please know we're all thinking of you ~~ and I do hope you'll write back and let me know what's happening with you & your family! :-D






Posted in On The Diet

Combine? Separate? TFA ~ Quercetin ~ Diabetes

January 10th, 2001 , by admin



Thank you very much for answering our questions~ I am learning so much! My next question is in reference to how each meal should or could be put together. I have found that for me, and many others that I know, eating meals comprised of 30% fat (good fats - nuts, avacados, olives, etc.), 30% protein, and 40% carbohydrate, regardless of blood type (?) , leads to fairly effortless weight loss, as well as mental clarity and a reduction of cravings which stem from balancing the hormones in the body, insulin in particular. According to the BTD, would this particular way of eating effect all blood types the same? I am a type B and it makes since this works for me since B's are all about balance. What about the other types? Are there any other reccommendations? Health & Happiness, Brandy

Hello, Brandy! There are two dietary schools of thought which present fairly opposite points of view on combining meat, grain and fat in a single meal.

The "food separation" (often called, confusingly, "food combining") proponents maintain that digestion proceeds most efficiently when (1) fruit is eaten alone (or with a fat, if desired), (2) high-protein foods are eaten with vegetables only (fat is allowed), and (3) grains are eaten with vegetables only (fat is allowed). That's the general overview of this system, which can be followed on this simple basis or by a complex protein/carb/fat rating of individual foods, fat food types allowed with fruit as differentiated from those which go with vegetables & meats, etc.

The protocol you outlined, of course, is the one promoted by the "zone" camp, who make exactly the claims you mentioned for their system.

Peter's view is twofold: first, most common foods contain in themselves a proportion of protein, carbohydrate and fat. Second, if one system or the other appeals to you, try it. If it works, use it. Just use it within the value, portion and frequency guidelines in Live Right 4 Your Type or the Blood Type Food, Beverage and Supplement Lists.

Which blood type would benefit from one or the other? In my experience, a two-week trial of one of these systems, followed by a two-week trial of the other, will provide ample personal evidence as to which one works best for that individual. You seem to be quite happy with your choice, which is great! Anecdotally, I have reports from an AB friend who prefers the p/c/f combo as well -- whereas my type A- (nonsecretor) man and I (O+ non) do best on the food separation regimen. It's conceivable there is a blood-type connection here, but I've also heard from Os who swear by zoning, and Bs who prosper with the separation routine.

So, once again, those of you who are wondering if one of these meal-structuring systems would speed your progress, just give it a whirl! A new day, a new way to play. ain't it lovely? ;-D thanks for your message, Brandy, and blessings to all your endeavors! :-D






Hi Heidi THANKS so much for answering and for the advice. I shall try to get some Quercetin in town. I say "try" because there is only a very small health food store that doesn't carry much of anything really. I live 6 hours north of Toronto in a very beautiful area, but the town itself is very small. There is no such thing as Organic meat and vegetables here unfortunately -- I try to convince myself that breathing beautiful fresh chemical free air makes up for that!! We have a very short growing season (June, July, August) but I do grow my own salads and veggies in those months which helps. The other thing is that my husband and I are now retired (early -- offered a "package" we couldn't refuse) so, although comfortable there aren't many $$ to spare at the end of a month, which makes chosing supplements difficult for me. As I mentioned before I am taking Deflect, Fem Balance, O Multi's, Imm Calm, Phytocal, Glucosomine, B100 complex and Vit C - 500mg (since the onset of this cold.) This is costing me around C$160 a month, so I can't really afford to add any more supplements. Do you think that I am spending my dollars wisely, or is there anything (based on your own similar experiences to mine) that you would stop taking in order to add something else?

If you remember a few years back (on the old board) I tried to manage my depression (clinical) without drugs - never did achieve this, still on a low dose of Zoloft, so am thinking this could be causing some of the tiredness - I have tried everything else --- counselling, cathecol, 5htp - you name it - I have stopped taking the medication so many times only to end up back on it that my husband and Dr. both groan when I say I am going to try again - have you heard of anyone else that this has happened to? I feel like a failure when I read in "Live right" that people have cured their depression with the diet, when I cannot. Anyway, I should stop - you are a very busy lady - I would like to hear about the supplements though - I am now going to go and make some of that juice you mentioned! -- I shall have to blow the dust off my juicer. Oh, I noticed that I told you I drink 4 8 oz glasses of water a day - actually it is around 8 I drink, but I shall be adding the sea salt and lemon juice today. Today I ache from coughing and am depressed from not exercising - aren't I a mess - LOL!! love sue

Well, heck, Sue ~~ I think you're doing just great! MUCH better than I used to, when I was coming off one of those soul-eating bronchitis episodes! Chin up, girl ~~ you'll be burning up the pavements in no time.

There's no rush on the quercetin at this juncture -- shop around on the Net for the best price, and pick up a couple of bottles to have on hand in case of future need. If Vitamin Shoppe sells in Canada, theirs would fill the bill. Nothing fancy -- in this case, the cheapest will do the job just as well as the pricey ones.

And you're CERTAINLY not a failure at anything! You're just feeling low, and no wonder. Now ~~ you have just as much right to feel good, and the present is the point of power, right?

Depression can easily be instigated, or deepened, by poor food choices. But you're doing a splendid job in that area, and folks with our blood type have lived in far colder areas than yours throughout the ages, and prospered, long before supermarkets provided year-round veg.

I have a feeling that for you right now, the best approach doesn't involve changing your diet or adding supps. Do you have that book I'm always gushing about -- Meditation as Medicine? Authors, Dr. Dharma Singh Khalsa and Cameron Stauth. If not, there's $25 or less VERY well spent (and spent only once). There are three little exercises in it tailor-made for you. I was just paging through it and came upon the quick chart for ailment/chakra/meditation with notes. The note for "depression" is: "Depression is lack of spiritual connection, and anger turned in." Before I upset anybody, this doesn't mean that depressed people don't go to church, or don't believe in God, or aren't "spiritual" -- not at all. He's using diagnostic shorthand to describe a creeping feeling of "is this ALL there is?" And I can say from long personal experience that it is almost commonplace these days to have a quiet, chronic sense of helplessness and subsequent frustration which for any number of reasons isn't "acceptable" to be expressed to others. But expression is necessary to life -- so the anger is "expressed" upon oneself instead.

That book not only offers specific therapies, but is an absolutely great read. Science? Stories? Research? Testimonials? Step-by-steps? It's all there.

Here's my other book suggestion ($18.00 retail, and a TREASURE): The Nature of Personal Reality: Specific, Practical Techniques for Solving Everyday Problems and Enriching the Life You Know ~~ Jane Roberts. It's a "Seth" book. Engrossing, ground-breaking, funny, awe-inspiring and vastly useful. Here's a brief quote on the page (137) I just opened to:







In a situation where no expression of this "natural aggression" is allowed at all, whether by habit or environment, it can create depression instead - whether mild or severe.

Which reminds me: remember the old "tapping" conversation on the BB? I still have the EFT files containing all the text & instructions, so if you'd like that material, just drop me a note. Myra had absolutely wonderful results with it, as did many others.

Sue, only you can know if any of this rings a bell. I'm just bumbling along trying to raise an "Aha!" from you. That AHA moment is waiting for you, and you will discover what you need to know, I'm sure. It's still quite possible that you'd have excellent results from taking pregnenolone, or by doing the thyroid function test.... but I am more and more convinced that our power to heal is a huge force which we're only beginning to understand, and these books most certainly point the way far better than I could. It's truly life-changing stuff, and as I mentioned, you only need to buy them once!

OK, enough from me! Let me know how this goes, and remember I told you what a shining light you are, dear! :-D




Aloha Heidi, Thank you so much for your advice about my dry hands. It's been 2 weeks now and they are getting better. One thing I neglected to mention was I do drink 3 or 4 cups of coffee a day. Probably more than allow, huh? I'm working on drinking more green tea and less coffee. I've heard that you should drink one extra water for every cup of coffee. Is this true? I got the Black Cohosh and I will be starting it this month. I like to only work on one thing at a time, because of my past. Heidi, my wife is a O secretor and we tryed to get her on a brand of quercetin without bromelain because she is allergic to pineapple. I know, sad because we live here in Hawaii. What could she do, instead of bromelain, while she takes the quercetin? She got bad stomach aches taking the quercetin by itself.

I was reading Sue's question and I had a thought for her. Before I started this diet, I was doing mega-mega-vitamins. My thinking at that time was the more the better. Then I read Peter's first book and immediately stopped everything I was taking and ate no more avoid foods. Before this diet, when I was over supplementing, I would get an awful cold once a year for at least a week. Stay in bed type cold, it was bad. I started getting small kind of problems with my health also. I think this is my tinnitus problem, because I read about oral chelation and tried it for three months and everything got worse.

I read all that Sue is doing to keep healthy and I like her applaud you, but could it be you are not needed all the supplements when doing the diet like you are? Just a thought. By the way, I agree with Sue you deserve a hugh salary for the time you give us and the great advice. At least A great big group hug from all of us. And if you are ever headed this way for some R & R, you let us know ahead of time and we will give you that hugh hug Hawaiian style (with a Lei). Here we say Mahalo Nui Loa (Thank You very much) and God Bless, Carl And Julie

Carl, you're such a sweetie! Julie's a very lucky woman!!

If I were she, I'd always take the quercetin with fruit, or with a vegetable soup -- something light, but enough to protect her tum from upset.

Well, that's a little high on the coffee, sure... but slow & steady wins the race. You go ahead and make your changes just the way you're comfortable doing so. Coffee is a diuretic, so drinking extra water is a good idea. However, to make sure the water stays in your tissues (rather than following the coffee right on out), add a tiny pinch of sea salt to each 8-oz glass -- and a squeeze of lemon or lime, if you like. This directs the water more toward the intestine, for absorption. Make it a cocktail! ;-)

I'm very pleased your hands are getting better! Is the tinnitus showing any change? By the way, thanks for kindly offering those observations on supps ~~ it's well worth remembering, and I hope anyone who's juggling bunches of pills without seeing improvements will take your experiences to heart!

And the invitation to Hawaii is deeply appreciated! {sigh!} What a gorgeous place, and such kind people!! thanks again, Carl! :-D




Hi Heidi,In August of 2001 I received a Typhoid vaccination, I was told to get another in two years, I'm due for my second shot in August of this year, which I intend to receive. I recently started to take TFA; since I have had the typhoid vaccine in what dosage would you suggest I take the TFA? I'm in good health so the typhoid vaccination and the TFA are for prevention. I realize that this is extra important to me since I am an A MM, A1 secretor MM to be exact. Also, I do take several of Dr. D'Adamo's suppliments with great success, except for the Deflect, it makes me severely constipated a problem that I NEVER, have. My daughter, (same blood type as me) and my cousin blood type O are have the same problem. All of us are on the diet and all of us have tried the Deflect several different times with the same results. Any suggestions? Thanks for your help Heidi -- Pat

Hi, Pat! As an A1 MM secretor, you'd want to take the TFA in the "therapeutic" dosage recommended - one to two caps twice per day. That Deflect reaction is one I hadn't heard before... I'll tell you one thing: take it with PLENTY of water. It's meant to be dissolved and "spread out."

Take care, Pat ~~ thanks for writing, dear!! :-D




Dear Heidi: I am a type B, but my question is not about myself. It is about an acquaintance of mine with a 7 year old diabetic daughter and a 4 year old daughter who seems to be showing signs that she may become diabetic. It breaks my heart to see the anguish this causes them. My question is, what can I tell her that might pique her interest in the blood type way of eating (she puts great stock in the medical profession and counts on the hope of a cure soon for diabetes)? Are there any others out there who have been able to significantly improve their quality of life in a young child with diabetes? Thank you for your generous help. Sincerely, Wendy

Hello, Wendy -- Well, she'll save her kids and her entire family a load of suffering if WHILE waiting for a medical cure, she does everything she can to help her kids. Medical cures for a variety of diseases are strangely unforthcoming, even though the research has cost millions and gone on for years. If I were a betting woman, I wouldn't risk a cent on the chance of seeing a pharmaceutical "cure" for diabetes in my lifetime. The only rational route is to get educated and take charge of her kids' health.

I assume from their ages that this is type I diabetes? They NEED to be on their best diet and activity plan. Improper diet is the single most prominent cause of adult-onset diabetes, of course, and any insulin-imbalance condition should be promptly addressed through diet first. In juvenile (type I) diabetes, the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed, possibly through an autoimmune response. Often, these are type A children of a type O mother, where the fetus was exposed in utero to the antibodies of the mother. No matter what the type or the cause, type I diabetes must be controlled with insulin and a closely monitored diet.

Wendy, if you have the Encyclopedia, read pages 251-253. I don't have a quick reference at hand that you could give her, but within those pages is hope that those girls can avoid the complications of their condition by following the diet and the protocols. An ABO/secretor status plan would provide the "lectin avoidance" which is so essential for them in order to protect other organs from harm and to ensure their diet does not make their day-to-day lives more difficult.

Readers, if you have experience treating young diabetics with the BTD, please do write in and I'll post it here for Wendy! Thanks, everyone -- and Wendy, I hope Peter's work will carry some weight with your friend. :-D






Posted in On The Diet

Fish~Bread~Meat~Squash~Salt~Pepper :-D

January 9th, 2001 , by admin



Hi, I am just starting the diet this week and have a couple of questions that I have searched for and can't find. I am an O (not sure whether secretor or not). I am not a fish eater except for John Dory which does not appear in the encyclopedia. Is it beneficial? Also what about bok choy? And passionfruit? Thanks in advance for your help. Marney



Greetings, Marney! Welcome to the BTD, and glad you found us!!



Bok choy is listed in TYPEbase 3, also linked on our homepage (www.dadamo.com). Type in "bok" and hit the "search" button (the keyboard "enter" key won't activate this search).



Passionfruit, eh? Take a peek at This column! -- or just go to the bottom of this page and use the search term "passion." You'll come up with several columns to choose from.



John Dory (Zeus faber or Zeus japonicus) is a handsome fish with no rating, and no handy relatives on the food lists from which I might extrapolate a rating.



However, Os have so few avoids among the seafoods that I will venture at least a "neutral" rating. And if John Dory appeals to you, perhaps you could try sole, cod, mullet, snapper or trout? Variety is a wonderful thing! and a healthy thing, as well. With barracuda, catfish, muskellunge and pollack the only true fishes with an "avoid" mark for type O (secretors, at any rate), it seems a shame not to take advantage of that bounteous remainder of neutrals & beneficials!



Once again, welcome! and thanks for writing, dear! :-D








Hi, I am type O and am quite slim, I have tried on and off for years to gain weight but with little success. I was wondering if you have any advice as to how to maximise my weight gain. Since i am new to the blood type diet for years I have steered clear of red meat, now I see that this is what best suits my "type". Thanks Joe (ireland)



Greetings, Joe! And a warm Welcome to you!! Here is a column with some brief, focused suggestions on weight gain in response to a guy in a similar condition to yours.



I have an additional note that may seem a bit airy-fairy to you, but it's worked for me and for folks I know. Each night, for a few minutes before sleeping, imagine that you ARE at the weight you want to be. Just happily visualize it, as vividly as you can -- how it would feel, how your clothes would look on you, etc. Then... forget it. Just fall asleep, get up, and go about your business. No need to dwell on it or compare where you are with where you'd rather be. Just do that little mental exercise each night. This kind of practice has significant effects on your entire endocrine system, resulting in far-reaching changes in the way your body "builds itself."



To anyone open to this practice, and for no matter what purpose, I highly recommend giving it a try. Takes just a few minutes, and it powerfully supports your body's natural abilities to heal, lose weight, gain weight... and that's just the beginning. Joe, please write again if there's anything I might help with as you're re-discovering your true nature as a muscle-bound meat eater! :-D








hey heidi, its cric here, writing to see if you have any insight on bioperine (black pepper fruit). many supplement makers seem to be adding this stuff to their products for the sake of increasing bio-availability. is this stuff kosher for o's? hope all is well with you, cric :-)



Hey there, cric! "Bioperine" is the patented extract of piperine, an alkaloid compound present in black pepper. If it were OK for anyone, I'd say Os and Bs would be the ones who could take it without trouble. As & ABs, though, I think should avoid it unless we definitively find out otherwise. I'm basing this only on the "pepper (peppercorn/red flakes) database values, as we have no direct research on piperine in terms of potential ABO reactivity.... so just take reasonable care in experimenting with it, OK? :-D p.s.: I'm waiting for a report... ;->








I'm a little confused about the recommendations for type O. The recommendations are to limit the amount of breads eaten, but in the sample 30-day meal plans there seems to be bread listed at every meal. If Ezekiel bread is listed as highly beneficial can it be assumed that eating 2-4 slices a day is very good for you --- or not??? Erica



Hello, Erica! Just use the portion/frequency tables in Live Right 4 Your Type for each food group. For Os, the grain frequencies are based upon secretor status (1-6 servings weekly for secretors, 0-3 for nonsecretors) and Rhesus type (Rh-negative folks should subtract 1 serving weekly from the frequency listed for their secretor status). These frequencies include all grains -- so an O should try to have one or less servings of any kind of grain in a single day.



Live Right represented a series of refinements that are most valuable to people in poor health, or who wish for their own reasons to follow a stricter therapeutic plan than the one presented in Eat Right and Cook Right.



Ezekiel or essene breads (or any 100% sprouted breads containing no avoids) are superior to the other grain choices, but are still subject to the grain category portions & frequencies.



Wow, I sure went on about that. I hope this makes sense... write again if you need clarification. thanks, dear!








Dear Heidi, I hope you can assure me that my problem is not serious ;-) Well, the point is this: For about ten days now I am having kind of diarrhea. That is: Once and sometimes twice a day I have kind of fluid stool, and it seems I am loosing a lot of water. In between my intestines are bubbling and rumouring. It even happened twice that I woke up in the middle of the night andI needed to go to the toilet. After 10 days, I am now starting to feel drained, physically and emotionally. What do I wrong? Or is this all some kind of cleaning process?



Well, I am a 0 type, secretor, and I am on the diet since October last year. In December / January I took 1 bottle Polyflora and Ara plus, just to be on the safe side. Then, as a reader of your daily column, I started to add nutritionous yeast and flaxseed (two tablespoon in my breakfast: for example two banans and one apple, mixed in a blender with a little bit of soy milk). I have meat intake and I love the 5BX plan you suggested. Since February, however, I had the problem that I got very heavy cramps on the onset of my menstruation, and in between the cycle very tender breasts. Following the encyclopedia (Female Balancing protocol) I started about 14 days ago to supplement with Mg (from Solgar) and B6, using the recommended doses. This was when my stool began to loosen, but at the same time my cramps just vanished.



Therefore, I cut down on the Mg, and meanwhile I haven't taken any since 7 days. But this diarrhea continues. Do you have any suggestions what to do or what the cause might be? Besides the yeast I am taking currently only Phytocal, 3-4 capsules a day. I also love my almond nut butter, eat lots of green stuff and my meat. I try to drink a lot of water (due to the loss of fluids), but mineral water does seem to worse the condition (it contains a lot og Mg). I am aching for salt, and the last two days I just longed for spelt salt sticks, thereby eating more grains than usually. That stopped the diarrhea for one day, only to come back last night. I forgot: my skin starts to get very sensitive, itchy, which is particular unpleasant in the insides of some joints (knees) . Very unpleasant, and certainly something which was not part of my experience before the BTD. But that was diarrhea neither (of course I used to be a grain based vegetarian...) I am sorry that this letter got so long, but I am frustrated and certainly I need some assurance that the BTD is still ok for me... Your answer would be truly appreciated. And good you are back - I missed you over the past days, With thanks to you, Eva



Hello, Eva! I'm so sorry you're having this trouble! No, it is certainly not serious and you're going to be just fine. ;-)



The first thing to do is cut back on the flax -- go to 1/4 what you were taking before. Do this for a week, and let me know if the diarrhea and itchiness begin to subside. Also, look on www.mineralwaters.org for a "high calcium, low mag" mineral water. And salt your food liberally with sea salt for a while -- and add that sea salt to your plain drinking water, a small pinch per 10-oz glass.



Write again in a week or so, dear! I want to hear how you're doing!! :-D










Hello Heidi! NOW I found your answer to my question :-) and I see I didn't make myself clear:-) it is about them squashes again :-) you did recommend that I use a food lexicon but *LOL* Latin names are universal aren't they? Let me start from the beginning again :-) When searching your database I see pumpkin listed as an avoid for type B(my husband is type B), and as a beneficial to myself - I'm an 'O'. Squash is considered neutral for all types. But how about Wintersquash then for us Os & Bs? The reason I am confused is that 'squash' as in Summer squash or merely 'squash' is Cucurbita pepo in Latin, Winter squash often refers to one of the three following species C maxima or C pepo or C moschata. Pumpkin is either the species C maxima or P moschata. So how do I know if we are eating the right type of Winter squash? Should we stay away from the C maximas or the C moschatas? Butternut and Acorns as you wrote in your reply are the names given to the cultivars - Butternut is C moschata and Acorns are C pepo. So you see - there is more to 'squash' than meets the eye - I grow my own and often order seeds from the US so I am familiar with the types you grow. Next question :-D I am really getting into high gear now ;-) My husband who is a 'B' started with his membrane fluidizer - the lecitin we find here comes as granules but we manage just fine anyway - BUT since starting with the fluidizer each morning he is always always sneezing and has excess fluid in his nose. Normally I'd say it is a good thing because he used to suffer a lot from nose-bleds during our Winters and we have managed so far this Winter (hoooray!!)but all this sneezing and blowing his nose is wearing us down. And he hasn't got a cold - it has been like this since we started in earnest with the Diet - last Summer. BTW - we are doing ever so well on it - pasta was our major culprit - bread for me.....seems bread and potatoes makes me gain weight magically :-/ So - I am hoping that you can shed any light on this mysterious sneezing.- he does have hay-fever but that is not an allergy. Many thanks in advance and I think you are doing a swell job :-D keep up the good work! Smiles from Ingrid in Sweden



OK! Hi, Ingrid! Reading your previous question, I'm still curious where you found winter squash listed as avoid -- but anyhooo, here is the lowdown.



"Pumpkin" in the food lists refers to the top-stemmed bright-to-deep- orange late-harvest vegetable which may be smooth-skinned OR have distinctive "ribs" running from root end to stem. It is generally round, squat-round or tall-oval (variations between plants, but the same food item). Some pumpkin varieties such as Hokkaido and Kambocha have green-patterned shells and lighter-colored flesh.



Every other variety of squash, except for the three items "zucchini" (a long, dark green-skinned vegetable with light flesh, of great variation in size), "summer squash" (the same, except with pale yellow skin), and "spaghetti squash," a yellow-melon-looking veg which produces masses of stringy innards after cooking which are perfectly suited as a spaghetti substitute, fall under the title "winter squash." ;-) There are some other kinds of summer squashes (unlisted), but here are some tips on distinguishing the two types for purposes of the diet:



Winter squash and pumpkins have hard shells (not eaten) (although butternut has a thin skin, that skin is not eaten), and the seeds are toasted or baked (dry) separately from the flesh-cooking process for eating. Summer squash have edible skin and seeds, and both remain intact when we cook & eat them.



About your husband? Hmmmm..... Are all the ingredients absolutely fresh? Flax oil is exceedingly delicate, and must be stored in a cold temperature and away from light (an opaque bottle is best). He may be sensitive to flax oil, or to the fruit in the mix. Have him discontinue the MFC for a week, and if the runny nose goes away, then choose one ingredient of the MFC to test on him for a day or two. First the oil, then the fruit, then the lecithin (shake in up in some warm water). In this way, you'll quickly discover which item is giving him trouble.



Thanks for writing, and enjoy your research!! ;-)












Posted in On The Diet

Mostly-A ~~ & a special note on black onion seed!

January 8th, 2001 , by admin



Nina's comment about black pepper reminded me of something I'd been meaning to share. Black onion seeds make a pretty good substitute for black pepper. They are hard to grind in a pestle & mortar but OK in a coffee grinder. I include them in my home made spice powder. I assume they are at worst neutral as onions are beneficial for As. -- Sarah

Hello, Sarah! Fascinating idea, using black onion seed instead of black pepper. I wonder if a pepper grinder would have any effect on them -- they're very small! but perhaps a really sturdy grinder with a fine setting would do it.

"Black onion seed" (Nigella sativa is the seed of an annual herb also called black cumin, black caraway or nutmeg plant. Turns out it's unrelated to onions, caraway, nutmeg OR cumin -- it's a member of the Ranunculacea family, along with aconite, buttercup, clematis, black cohosh, columbine, hellebore, rue, and goldenseal. Its closest relative appears to be the lovely flowering annual "Love-in-a-Mist" -- whose seeds, interestingly, are also edible and are described as having a "nutmeg-like flavor."

Funny thing is, I think this spice might actually be that mysterious little seed so frequently used in Indian cuisine (papadam, for example??) that I always wondered about -- every time I queried a waiter about it, back came the smiling answer, "Ah! That is Indian spice." (thanks, fella! :-/)

As with all "unknowns," do proceed with caution. If you are ill or seeking weight loss, we always advise to avoid the unlisted. And, if you experience any untoward effects from using any unknown, discontinue it (and make a little notation in your "personal avoids" file). But at this time, I see no potential problem from using black onion seed as a spice, so experiment, enjoy, and report! :-D thanks, Sarah!!




I have been a big believer in this way of eating and living since Sept. 2002. I have had a big weight loss and no more headaches which I had daily. But, I am a bit disappointed to see so many discrepancies between the first book, "Eat 4 your type", and the smaller book "Food, Beverage and Supplement" smaller book for one type, ex: type O. A handbook so to speak. Let me give some examples: I'm type O so this is the type I'm speaking of. The first book says pinto beans are highly beneficial whereas the smaller book says they are on the avoid list. The first book says avoid brussel sprouts and cabbage. The small one says they are neutral. Kiwis are neutral on first book, avoid in the small book.The first book says mozzarella cheese is neutral, but avoid string cheese. String cheese is mozarella, I believe. First book says avoid cinnamon and vanilla, smaller one says they are neutral. The first book says avoid strawberries, smaller one says they are nuetral. Bananas, bleberries, mangoes, guava, cherries are all the neutral list in the first book, whereas they are listed as highly beneficial in the smaller handbook for type O. The first book lists Ezekial bread as highly beneficial whereas it is neutral in the handbook. I'm sure I could find more, but this is a bit upsetting considering I have followed the first book strictly for 7 months. So which is correct? It's making me question the validity of the information. I have been a big proponet of this way of life to many people, now they are expressing doubts because the information is contradictory. Please respond with some answers I can disseminate, Signed, Confused, Lisa Gandara. Thank-you.

Greetings, Lisa! I am indeed sorry you're suffering from uncertainty. I'll do my best to help.

First, it's important to understand that in the seven years since BTD appeared as the very first book on blood type's far-reaching influence on health, new research, new testing tools and far more interest in the scientific community have developed. Thus, the literature and knowledge have expanded, to our benefit. The later books were written to publish the blood type plans in a thorough-going form, incorporating all those significant discoveries made since 1996.

Second, the "little books," while they were built upon the later research, are designed to serve people who do not know their secretor status, and do not intend to find out. So, their food lists must walk a single line between the best beneficials and the worst avoids for both secretors and nonsecretors. That's why the "little book" lists are different from those in Eat Right/Cook Right, AND from the Live Right/Encyclopedia lists.

If you are interested, please read the Updates Page (also linked at the bottom of the "Library" section on our home page, www.dadamo.com). It gives more specific reasons why food values were revised from the ones published in 1996.

Those who followed BTD's food lists, and those who continue to do so, are far better off today than if they hadn't. I feel that is the primary point to make to your friends. Yes, Peter could have left all as-is and just rested on his laurels. Hey! Eat Right is STILL doing so well that it never went to paperback! That is a record in this area of publishing. So, why bother putting out new and "conflicting" data, and taking the endless flack for doing so? Because it matters to him. He's just that kind of person, and I for one am daily grateful for everything that he and Catherine have worked so hard to bring to us. Personally, I don't like to think about what my health... my life would be like if I hadn't found them.

Lisa, I hope this fills the bill! Do feel free to write again if there is anything I can clarify for you! thanks, dear! :-D




I am Blood type A+. I recently started the diet you recommend for A blood type. When reading your books I have realised that you mention Helicobacteria Pylory only in the section devoted to O. I have that virus. What can I do to heal? Thank you in advance for your kind reply! annalaura

Hello, annalaura! Many As do have trouble with H. pylori -- especially nonsecretor As. There is an Antibacterial and a Stomach protocol in the BTD Complete Blood Type Encyclopedia just for type As, and those are what I recommend that you follow. They are listed under "Ulcer, peptic." Get hold of that book, and consider finding out your secretor status so you can follow your diet with a higher level of compliance. I hope you are better VERY soon, dear -- thanks for writing, and feel free to drop me a note if you have any Qs about the diet or the protocols! :-D




Heidi, keep up the great work! In response to Rachel (Type A w/IBS), I did the EXACT same thing and are experiencing the EXACT same symptoms! But I'm an A+ non-secretor MM. Should I do anything different as a non-secretor? Thanks in advance! Miranda

Hi, Miranda! thanks! :-} Listen, since you're a nonsecretor, the only modifications you'd observe in the food lists would be according to your Rhesus type and your secretor status -- the MM modifications don't apply to nonsecretors. We did publish this note in the Updates Page, but it bears repeating now and again.

The advice to Rachel would suit you perfectly; I wouldn't change a thing.

My best wishes to you, Miranda, and keep me posted, OK? :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Fluoride ~ and reader's notes to Joan, Magda and Diana !

January 7th, 2001 , by admin





Hi Heidi! To remind you who I am, I wrote you awhile back on by hyperthyroid college daughter. We've had some test results come back, but I'm waiting til all the results are in to write you about that again. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, we've started our other daughter on the B type diet for her depression and exhaustion. She's feeling better already after 1 month. My question this time, though is about flouride. I was interested to read in one of your recent letters that O's are especially sensitive to it. I searched your columns and Dr. Dadamo's columns, and found some information, but couldn't find anything about specific manisfestations outside of dental and skeletal symptoms. Can you tell me what allergic type symptoms excessive flouride might cause? I've been on the diet for one year now, but still can't get rid of the mucus in my throat and other sinus problems. I've taken Querticin, drink lots of water, etc. and still no relief. So I wonder if flouride might play a part in the problem. Thanks for your help, and I'll write you again as soon as we have news on the thyroid front. Alice



Hey there, Alice ~~ of course I remember you! I look forward to hearing the full story on your daughter's reports, when you get them in.



Mucus and sinus problems can be triggered by a wide variety of substances. Some are food-based, some are in the environment. Without knowing exactly what you eat and how pollutant-free your food and water are, I can only generalize that mucus indicates that your body is attempting to surround and remove something which is foreign and undesirable. Here's an article containing a little more detail on the effects of fluoride in food, water and air, from the Well Being Journal:



















So, it appears that fluoride is implicated in a growing number of serious health conditions -- however, I think it's unlikely that it is causing the excess mucus production you're experiencing... tell me more? :-D








Heidi, Your presence here is such a godsend to all of us. Thank you. I wanted to send well wishes to Joan V. I know she is feeling overwhelmed and want to support her in her efforts to be well. This is from Doc Bron's 13 May 2003 post for Cassie's dad who has cancer in lymph tissue in chest. He recommends, "...why don’t you use Helix, TFA and ARA from NAP. These don’t have any interaction with the chemo and can really help the body target and kill the cancer."



I have been taking HEALlix (not to be confused with Helix), and love it. www.HEALlix.com The first time I took it I felt that burn down the intestines and slightly nauseous, like after drinking vodka :). I could feel it burning up unwanted stuff. The recommended use for cancer is "Take the maximum dose for 3 months after the cancer is gone. You must be consistent in taking HEALlix and never miss." And I know you told her we would support her any way we could. We have a just starting Nonny Email Project and Joan, you are welcome to join for support and help in gathering info. All welcome!



This is to Magda regarding swollen gums. I am also an A nonny and I even had pain when I bit down that I thought was tooth pain but it was from swollen gums. I now use a product called Soft Touch BrushPicks by The Doctors. I can find it any local drug store in any city in the US in the same section as the dental floss. It may be a bit painful at first (and bleed a bit but only at first) but they really toughen up your gums in no time. I now have gums of steel and no teeth pain. And you can also brush your teeth with HEALlix. It says that the plaque falls right off. http://www.heallix.com/suggesteduse.htm



To Diana with osteo-arthritis, wanted to say that an A nonny friend helped her joint pain tremendously by cutting out nightshades - tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant - even though everything but the potatoes are neutral for her because of nonny status. Diana didn't say what blood type she is. Hope she finds relief soon.



And I just wanted to say thank you so much for offering information about vegetable glycerine here. I didn't know abou it until I read this column. My A nonny daughter is very sensitive to sweeteners and she is so happy and her body is happy with the veg. gly. Made her soy flour cookies last night with oats and carob. It has really made such a difference for her and me. Thank you!! Blessings, Nina








Aloha Heidi, I know I just wrote, but I had to write and tell you how great your kale recipe was. I cooked it up last night and yummy!!! Thank you so much or as we say here Mahalo Nui Loa. I'm working, by trial and error, on a oatmeal breakfast that works for most of us. I eat it almost every morning and I am using Veg. Gl. and Molasses instead of brown sugar. When I get it right I will send it to you. I just read JoanV's post about lung cancer. Great protocol heidi! I hope you don't mind if I add this tidbit. I have in my possession about 50 to 100 pages of people getting healed by Laetrile(Amygdalin) back in the early 1990's, before Peter wrote his first book. I'm sorry I don't have the info on where to get it, but I did get it from the east coast somewhere. The G.N.C. here carries apricot seeds, so I would think any G.N.C. could get them if there is one in your area. I believe this can help you and then Peter's work will keep you from ever getting cancer again. I just prayed for your healing Joan and Heidi thanks for letting me share. Carl & Julie








To the wonderful offerings of Nina and Carl & Julie, I'd like to add for Joan's use the Alternative Cancer Therapies section of the Minnesota Wellness Directory. This is a long page filled with many options available to people with cancer. I hesitated to post it, because I know that so much information can be confusing and tiring to go through. However, it's good to get a quick overview of potential therapies, at which point one can go back through them and examine those which appeal to you and fit your situation.







Dear Carl and Nina, my heartfelt thanks for your kindness and most welcome contributions! and my thoughts are with all of you who are working to resolve a serious illness. I envision your healing, and wish you all the vibrant health which is your birthright! Warm regards ~~ :-D








Posted in On The Diet

Calcium / secretor test in Oz / IBS / ros's new bub! / MPS/ cancer

January 6th, 2001 , by admin



Heidi, Perhaps you or Dr. D'Adamo can enlighten me and answer this question? I have severe osteo-arthritis in my left hip, mild in my right hip and slightly in my knee. Dr. D'Adamo recommends calcium as I read in his books and also in a response from you to an "A" Blood type. I'm an "A+" SECRETOR and when I take calcium my hip and other joints become VERY STIFF and I can barely move. This has happened again and again, so I KNOW it's from the calcium.. Why would anyone take calcium for JOINT'S? Calcium is for BONES, teeth, not JOINTS. CARTILAGE is in the JOINTS. Calcium is hard, like stones in the kidney, or gallbladder. Cartilage is soft and flexible..I fail to see the calcium connection here. I do however take glucasomine, chondroitin and MSM which is the only natural protocol that relieves the discomfort for me. I think we need further study before stating the use of calcium for arthritis. The only thing I can think of is that he feels calcium makes the bones stronger and that takes the stress off of the joints..The only problem with that hypothesis is that only weight bearing exercise increase bone mass and makes bones stronger. I fail to see the significance of calcium for ARTHRITIS. And no matter what you say, when I take it, I get stiffer and have more pain. Doesnt' matter what form of calcium either. I have read that calcium is good for arthritis in a few different Doctor's protocols and I would have thought Dr. D'Adamo would have something different to say then agreeing with them. I'm disapponted. I also bet you or he will not answer me either. Diana



Well, that's the right kind of bet to make, Diana! because whether you're answered or not, you win (...kind of) either way! ;-)



I've just gone through the entire text and protocols under osteoarthritis in the Encyclopedia, and didn't see calcium listed anywhere, in any of them.



What kind of calcium were you taking that caused your joint stiffness? I'm not sure what calcium would have to do with your joints. Of course, it may help the bones' growth (at the bone ends) if there are pitted and worn areas, but other than that, I'm still wondering what kind of calcium (and what else was included in the supp) you took that made your joints stiff.



I recall that I've answered your questions about soy, etc. some time ago and about A1/2 and the MN system recently -- I am really very sorry you're disappointed about what you've read here and in Peter's books! and I do hope you find a source of information you can trust for your further health needs. Be well, and take good care, dear! :-}








Hi Heidi, I thought I'd drop you a line to add some information in relation to the secretor test in Melbourne, Australia & to ask a couple of questions. First in relation to the secretor test you advised previously (under the topic "where in the world etc") that there are 2 labs in Victoria that offer either the Lewis-type test or the secretor test. The first Lab that you named was Analytical Reference Laboratories stating that they offered the Lewis-type test & were considering introducing the saliva test for secretor status. However, I was informed by them that these tests are not available but should be available in a matter of months as they are still testing the procedures. The second Lab that you named was General Diagnostic Laboratories. They do offer all of the tests (Lewis-type, saliva test for secretor status, A1, MM). The telephone number of the head office is (03) 88313000. The person I spoke to was John Roberts. ALthough the head office is in Burwood they have collection centres all over Melbourne. The cost for all the tests is $90 & a request slip from a GP is NOT needed. Now, to my questions.



I am a Type A secretor (A1, NN) with CFIDS & gut-related problems, resulting in a large amont of weight loss. I have been taking probiotic supplements, primal defence, perfect food and goatein. My query relates to whether they are compatible with my blood type. I note your previous advice on 23 March 2003 in relation to Goatein that it is o.k. for Type A secretors. Is this correct as it contains whey? Is it o.k. because it is goat whey? Further I have a problem with nasal congestion where my nose gets blocked every night severely interrupting my sleep (not a good thing when you have CFIDS). I have been following the BTD fairly closely & have recently cut out goat's milk & goat's cheese but still have the congestion. I use a saline solution but it only provides partial relief. As stated above I have previously had digestive problems (bloating, tenderness, severe disbyosis) but all those symptoms have largely abated. I have completed 2 liver/gallbladder cleanses (epsom salts, olive oil & lemon) & passed hundreds of stones, some small & tanned coloured others bigger and green. Is the congestion likely to be a result of digestive problems? Could it be a result of more stones in the gallbadder/liver? Any ideas? Thanks, Glenn.



Hi, Glenn ~~ Many thanks for the update on secretor tests in Australia!



Goat milk is allowed for A secretors. Since the predominant component of milk is whey, I conclude that if goat milk is allowed for you, goat whey is OK as well.



About the probiotics: I can't vouch for any probiotic except the type-specific PolyFlora product. To evaluate any probiotic against PolyFlora, one would have to compare the species of bacteria used, the proportions of each species, the food matrix provided, and the procedure whereby the organisms are processed and packaged, as well as the guaranteed number of live critters present in the final product.



If your congestion continues in spite of cutting out goat's milk and cheese, then either the Goatein, and/or dairy-inclusive probiotics, and/or continuing healing and re-organization of your gut bacteria. My suggestion would be to eliminate dairy entirely (including any contained in supps). If the congestion remains, I'd start limiting grains to beneficials only. It's unlikely to be connected to the gallstones, but since you are an NN, I'd continue with the series of gallbladder flushes to optimize your digestion of fats, and then do them on a maintenance schedule (four times per year).



Also, while sinus-washing is a good idea to prevent infection, you can also work from the inside by drinking that hot lemon-water beverage each morning. It's truly great for clearing mucus from the system. Let me know how you get along, Glenn, and thanks for your report, dear! :-D










My wife is very distressed by the posting of 5/5/03, where Yvonne’s daughter is suffering from IBS, which has also afflicted my wife for over 30 years, since she was a teenager. She is an A+ secretor, and follows the blood type diet just as closely as she can. Sometimes it seems to me that she is fanatical about it, but given the problems that she has, and the help that she has received, I try to be very supportive. In any case, according to the posting of 5/5/03, the mainstays of her exceedingly limited diet have become off-limits, and she can hardly conceive of what to do from here. She can’t have salt [it raises her blood pressure], so cooking rice in salt-water is out. She is already off of all grains except rice and amaranth [she was just diagnosed with a yeast infection], no dairy, no meat, and no sweeteners, except blueberries. Both oats and rye cereals appear to aggravate the IBS. She is underweight, and struggling not to lose more weight. She is small-boned and Caucasian, which leaves her at considerable risk for osteoporosis, although she does take a lot of calcium supplements, and performs both aerobic and weight-bearing exercises every day to try to maintain bone density. There is also a strong family history of both heart disease and cancer, so she has been eating quite a lot of broccoli, onions, garlic, a variety of leafy greens, soy nuts [roasted, no salt], tofu, soymilk, and until the yeast infection was diagnosed, Ezekial bread. She also takes Quercetin which has been very helpful in controlling her allergies to pollen and such, but which also has onion as a primary ingredient. She practices yoga, both Hatha and Kundalini, every day, and probably is doing so right now in an effort to calm down. She takes a probiotic [Primal Defense] as well, along with larch and numerous other vitamins and supplements. She would like very much to overcome the IBS, along with the yeast infection, while still conforming to the blood type diet, and also trying to consume those things that will provide protection against cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, etc. Do you have any suggestions? GPF



Hi, GPF -- I'm a bit confused as to why she is distressed and upset...



Did she think that the suggestions I posted for a very similar case were new rules for her blood type? Please clarify on this, as I'm not sure what it is that has troubled her. If she inferred that she must eat only rice and blueberries forever, let me say clearly that my post of 5/5 contained a therapeutic approach, to be followed until one has healed. It's not a diet to be followed indefinitely. The type A diet has not changed in this regard.



I am not surprised that she is underweight, because she is not able to assimilate food through a damaged gut. That is the purpose of the therapeutic approach outlined, and it is by no means the law and the covenants -- it is only a suggestion from a well-informed and experienced source.



I do hope this eases her mind, but if not, please do write again and explain where the trouble lies? Thank you!! :-D








Dear Heidi, Thank you so much for answering my questions so promptly. I love this column. I have learnt so much more about the diet. Thank you! I have been doing this O blood non-secretor diet now, really stringently for three weeks. I have cut out all grains and fruit for the moment.



I am trying to heal a leaky gut - a result of many years of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. All this medication has caused joint pain and rosacea/acne. I am now at the point, where my joint pain has disappeared (especially from giving up the coffee and cream) and the flusing episodes on my face have gone away. However, I am really still suffering from constipation. I took a colon cleanse supplement last week - I think it has a mixture of rhubarb, aloe root, indian gooseberry, marshmallow and slippery elm. It worked beautifully - totally cleaned out my system! I also ate a huge amount of garlic that night. The only down side is that my skin broke out really badly on my face. I had about 4 really painful boils. Do you think that the garlic caused a detox reaction? I don't know if the herbs in the supplement agree with my blood type or not. The only other down side is that I developed a minor yeast infection as well. I know that I have to be really gentle on my gut - but I also cannot get constipated. Do you have any ideas? Sorry this is so graphic!! Thanks again for everything Suzanna



Hi, Suzanna ~~ Hey, you can't gross me out, dear. Bring it on! :-)



Well, rhubarb and aloe are both avoids, so whether the garlic promoted a detox or the avoids provoked the inflammation, it is difficult to tell. I would indeed use gentleness with bowel cleansing -- and take probiotics before, during and after the cleanse. You might have very good results from soaked flaxseed taken twice daily (as long as you're not sensitive to flax), along with a good measure of lightly steamed fibrous veg, like broccoli, kale, carrots -- and raw celery -- as well as okra, cooked through. Three servings of fresh vegetable juice per day can gently move everything along while providing healing minerals, and without irritating your gut or disturbing the balance of bacteria. The "colon cleanse" products I'm aware of either contain a multitude of O-non avoids, harsh "scrubbers" unsuited to injured tissue, or both.



Keep those progress reports coming, Suzanna ~~ you're getting better all the time, dear!! :-D








Long time follower of blood type diet. being type O. one question on a food item i do not see in the book, and that is taro root. where does it stand in avoid, neutral,benefical and avoid areas . Please let me know . Thank You Ken



Hey there, Ken! Welcome to the website... and let me introduce you to the TYPEbase 3 database. ;-) It's linked on the front page, too. Just use a one-word search term, and hit the "search" button (the keyboard "enter" key doesn't engage the search).



taro's there... :-D thanks for writing!!








hi heidi! yep, ive done the deed! Harley J was born on may 3 after a terrible labour. my question is a bit different in that it relates to blood type but not diet. i'll try to make a long story short.... i had to be induced 1 1/2 weeks early. im A neg and hubby is A pos. when i got my 36 week routine blood test done, it was discovered i had made anti D antibodies. (this is the injection they give all rh neg mums that birth rh pos bubs soon after birth to prevent 'haemolytic disease of the newborn'). because i had made the antibodies already, this meant that baby/placenta had had a bleed into my blood, therefore i made anti bodies to it. they induced my labour as there were concerns about the babies' well being. after 14 hours of extreme pain, and 1 1/2 hours of pushing, the baby distressed and i was given an emergency C-section. now to my Q. apparently im in the catagory of 1% of the population of rh neg mums producing their own anti D antibodies. Baby was born very healthy (a little jaundice) but there are huge concerns about future pregnancies. because i have the anti D in my system, i will 'reject' any future rh pos baby meaning miscarriage, or as Dr D says in eat right, birth defects. This is a bit scary and i was wondering if you or anyone else has any info on the subject, or if any BTD'ers have experienced similar problems. Doctors here arent very helpful and admit they dont know much about the subject. im yet to see a specialist in this area. i know its a different Q but any help would be appreciated. i thank god every day for my beautiful healthy son and trust he'll stay healthy on his A pos nonny diet! thanks Dr D! ros



Bless you, ros!! congratulations on your beautiful little guy!! ;-) You're such a champ! I'm sure you and he will do just splendidly! :-D



Normally, the Rh immunoglobulin shot is given at 28 weeks to prevent formation of the antibodies, the risk of which is highest in the last trimester. Once formed, it is true to the best of my knowledge that your body would reject future Rh positive pregnancies. I'm putting this up for everyone to see, though, and I'll post any useful information anyone can offer.



We're all thrilled that you & tiny bub are getting settled in together, and please accept my warmest wishes to you & your husband & new baby! :-D








I am a 39 yr. old women, Type A (RH Neg) - Secretor and I have been on the blood type diet, 99% compliant, for over 5 years, with wonderful results! But, lately it seems that my immune system has taken a turn for the worse. I have recently been diagnosed with a severe nickel allergy and I'm not sure why my symptoms have come on so suddenly. I am not able to eat any canned food, beans, chocolate, fish, pineapple or nuts without my skin blistering around my eyes and on other parts of my body. Many of these items listed above are on my highly beneficial list, and I'm at a loss as to what my protein source should be, or to what I should be eating. I've had blood work completed by my general practitioner to check my liver function and to check for heavy metal toxicity and I'm waiting for the results. I also seemed to have developed - out of nowhere - a sensitivity to chemicals. I've had to remove all cleaning products from my home. I now use organic and chemically free cleaners and products on my skin. I am constantly breaking out in hives, due to the fact that I can't control the chemical usage in other environments, like my workplace. My two main questions are, Should I continue to avoid my highly beneficial foods (even though I'm having reactions to them) And also, I'm leaning towards having the metal fillings in my teeth removed (they also contain nickel) as I've read about the adverse effects that mercury can have on a person's immune system. Do you have any comments on this? Shelley



Hi, Shelley! Well, you're going through a bad patch, and I am very sorry to hear of it!



A question for you, to start out with -- are you doing a daily yoga or meditation practice? Either one will do wonders to soothe the hives and reduce the allergic threshold. Quercetin (from yellow onions) is also a harmless and highly effective anti-inflammatory agent, very useful in allergies.



For your question about removing dental amalgam, go to the bottom of this page and enter the term "mercury" in the search form. The ones beginning with "Yoo-Hoo, Sarah" and "LR4YT in Spanish" contain useful info for you. You'd want to seek out a holistic dentist experienced in amalgam removal, and who can test you for compatible replacement materials to be used. I'll also put you in touch with other resources, if you request it. It is not something to be undertaken lightly, and you'd be better served to resolve the toxicity reactions you are having now before getting the fillings removed, since a significant amount of mercury is unavoidably released and absorbed in the process. It can make you quite a bit sicker for quite some time.



Also, look into Julia Chang's brilliant "Sensible Health" site. I'd give her a call, briefly describe your symptoms and ask if her protocols will help. She will be able to tell you immediately if she's had success with heavy-metal allergies. I suspect she can help, because of the liver involvement.



OK, see what you think, and let me know what you do & how the liver test comes out, etc.? thanks, Shelley, and best wishes to you, dear! :-D








Hi Heidi, Directions for Deflect mentions taking it with meals. I recall on one of your previous posts that it works best with a lot of water so the Deflect can spread out. This seems to be a contradiction to drinking minimal fluids with a meal. What should I do? Also, in BTD for surgical protocol (type O)is different than the recommendations in the Encyclopedia. The ER4YT seems easier to follow. What do you suggest? Love your column...and try to read it everyday. Thank you, Pat



Hi, Pat! If the Deflect is taken with meals, it will disperse just fine in the liquid components of the meal and the digestive secretions stimulated by the meal. However, if it's taken at night, or at any time away from meals, a big glass of water is a good idea. ;-) The surgical protocol in BTD is fine to follow, but the Encyclopedia version is more recent and thorough. The choice is yours -- either one will certainly help! Thanks so much for your note, dear! :-D








Hello Heidi, I would like to ask you if you could recommend something for inflamed gums. I try to floss regularly but they are still in bad shape. I don't like to use a liquid called Therasol recommended by my dental hygenist since it contains too many chemicals. Is there something else I can do. Is it being non-secretor makes it more difficult for me to keep bacteria out of my mouth :( . Thank You so much for answering. Magda



Hi, Magda ~~ Yes, we nonsecretors apparently have stubborn bacteria in our mouths. ;-) Taking CoQ10, using unwaxed floss (ribbon is my favorite), and swishing with a chewed-up folic acid tablet in water after flossing will keep your gums pink & happy. Try it, let me know how you do! :-D








Are there any specific dietary recommendations for Myofascial Pain Syndrome? (O, probably non) From internet research I'm guessing this is what I have. There are large areas along my hips, upper thighs, underarm and upper chest where even light pressure causes sharp bee-sting like pain. In those areas are lumps of varying sizes, and pressing these is quite painful. I've been on the BTD diet over a year now, and these tender areas have not diminished over that time. My other symptoms (stomachaches accompanied by night sweats, and IBS) completely disappear when I stay on the diet, and come back almost immediately when I go off the diet. I've been amazed at the amount of useful information garnered from a long morning reading your column, and will certainly implement some of the suggestions. Good inspiration too! Sincerely, Lisa V.



Hi, Lisa ~ you are very kind, dear!



There is a section in the Encyclopedia devoted to fibromyalgia (which applies to related syndromes, of which MPS is one). Type O shows up boldly in the annals of FM, so you're in plenty of company.



First thing to do is to eliminate all grain and dairy from your diet. Lectins are prominently implicated in FM/MPS, and many Os do far better with no grain, dairy -- even beans, to be on the safe side. We're not missing anything essential by doing so. Second, take a good dairy-free nutritional yeast daily, enough to provide at least 150 mg of B6 and 150% RDA of B1. Third, use Deflect-O at the therapeutic dosage daily. This is not only for lectins present in a meal, but also to help clean the system of old lectin-locked receptors over time.



In addition, there are three protocols (immune-enhancing, nerve health and fatigue-fighting) recommended to resolve this condition. There's quite a bit of reading there, and good advice on effective strategies. Do get a copy and start the protocols.



I also have heard good reports on the use of acupuncture and/or trigger-point therapy in FM/MPS. Here is a great resource on the physical therapy side of things, with links to other information on this topic. Have a good read, and let me know your progress with this, OK? thanks for writing in, Lisa! :-D








Hi Heidi, I (Type A, non-secretor) wrote you recently that I was waiting for the results of a biopsy. I can barely say it, but I have lung cancer. I don't know yet whether I will be having surgery, chemo, radiation, or some combo. But having been on the diet for a little under a couple of months now, I am very motivated to stay on it, because my intestinal troubles that could never be diagnosed that had been going on for over a year have about 90% gone away. Even though I had already been off of dairy, gluten, and other foods I'm allergic to. And I am now able to tolerate more supplements, which I couldn''t before. So I am very happy about all that!



I would like to find a medical practitioner near me who uses the ABO diet in his/her practice. Is there a list of such practitioners? I don’t know really where to start other than that. If you have any suggestions as to what I can do re: cancer, I would appreciate itl I’m sure there are many references to cancer on this website, but truthfully, I don’t have the energy and attention right now to sift through all of it. Maybe you can suggest a place for me to start? In a previous question, I asked about the reliability of tumor markers for non-secretors, but I didn’t really understand your answer. Do you know if tumor markers are more, or less, reliable for A-nons? I have been taking Rescue Remedy, which has brandy in it, and a burdock root extract to counteract the radiation from my medical tests, and that has grain alcohol in it. Is that OK? I think most of the herbal extracts are made from grain alcohol.



I have a bad cough and I would like to know if you have a suggestion for a strong cough remedy, one that deals especially with the "tickle" as well as the expectorant side of it. The prescription liquid, called Phenergen, the doctor gave me makes me feel sick. I'm using Ricola cough drops but they have sugar in them and sometimes work, sometimes not. Also, on another note, I've been thinking about getting some ARA6---it sounds like it's good for candida and you say it is an immune-enhancer---but my endocrinologist says I should stay away from immune boosters because they can set off autoimmune reactions, which I already have (autoimmune thyroid). Any thoughts? I have a couple of sublingual supplements that I really like (B complex and melatonin) that have sorbitol and mannitol in them. Is that OK to use?



Also, I asked you this before but I asked you so many things in one sentence that it got sort of garbled! My understanding is that Deflect is used when you eat something that's not on your diet? Or is it taken ongoing regardless? Is there something I can take that would do the same thing as Deflect but without the pineapple, which I am allergic to? I think you’ve mentioned that Quercetin is good for that, but my gut has never done well with Quercetin. I see that coconut milk is OK for A nons, which is great. But does it fall into the “1 tablespoon per day” category of oils, or is it in another category? Thank you, Heidi. JoanV



P.S. Are there food lists available for A nons specifically (either regular or pockete size), or are those included in the general A food lists? Are they up to date? Thank you. JoanV



Hello, Joan -- You need some help right away, so I'll go through your questions briefly and I hope I answer clearly enough so you can get the information immediately. If there's anything I'm not clear about, do write and I'll do my best with it!



There is a Practitioner Registry on the home page, in the "Tools You Can Use" section right in the middle. The direct link is HERE. That's our listing of health care folks who use the BTD in their practice. If you find none in your area, let me know and I'll help you find one.



The place to start is the Encyclopedia, which you have on hand. Use the A-nonsecretor protocols for lung cancer there. If you have any difficulty finding the ingredients, once again, let me know. Once you've begun, we can discuss how to proceed.



OK, you meant: is the presence of tumor markers in A-nons as reliable evidence of cancer as it is in A-secretors? If that was the question, the answer would be yes as far as I know!



I wouldn't worry about the amount of alcohol in the herbal tinctures, but just make sure the herbs in those products are OK for A-nons (there is a list in the Encyclopedia). I'd also not be concerned over the sorbitol and mannitol for now, but supps without them would be preferable for the long haul.



For the coughing, I'd try a combination of herbal teas (Alvita carries at least some of these): slippery elm, licorice, and horehound.



ARA6 is not an "immune booster," like echinacea for example. It's food for beneficial gut organisms, meaning it modulates immunity toward the optimal level for you. It is absolutely recommended for you.



Deflect should be taken regularly, not only for lectins in specific meals, but to clear old lectin damage from your system. If you cannot tolerate pineapple, the ingredients N-acetyl D-glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, D-mannose, N-acetyl cysteine, and FOS are all available separately in most health food/supp stores.



Coconut and coconut milk are in the fruit category.



The food lists for nonsecretors are found only in Live Right 4 Your Type (with the modifications on the Updates Page), the Encyclopedia and the TYPEbase 3 database on the home page. We have no "wallet card" or similar portable versions available.



As a last-but-maybe-most-important item -- it is ever so important to keep a daily meditation and/or yoga practice now. Very important! Please do!



My dear, I hope this is of help to you. Please know we're all thinking of you, and we'll do our best to support you in any way we can!! Take good care, and report in with any questions that arise! :-D












Posted in On The Diet

Immune boosting, spinal/tissue conditions, other authors (?), and "new to wheat avoidance" :-D

January 5th, 2001 , by admin



Dr.D'Adamo, I am a o-non-secretor I've had a big cold bronchitis, had to take many antibiotica. Please in the book you mentioned that we do not take ECHINACEA, what elsecan we take for the immunsystem? Thank you for answer -- chantal

Hello, Chantal ~ I'm not Dr. D'Adamo, but I'll try to answer your question.

For type O, the best things to do for the immune system are:

(1) Eat within the portion/frequency guidelines in Live Right 4 Your Type, especially in the meat, fish, vegetable and fruit categories.

(2) Follow the exercise suggestions in that book, and keep to a regular exercise schedule.

(3) Take PolyFlora-O (the O probiotic available in the Store here) and ARA6 daily. Our immune system resides largely in the health of our beneficial intestinal bacteria. These two supplements, along with the diet and exercise, do great work in keeping the immune system strong.

I hope this helps you, Chantal -- and thank you for writing! :-D




Dear Heidi, I would really appreciate any protocols that you have in your "arsenal" - obviously apart from the diet - for the following: Spondylosis - Type O Ankylosing spondylitis - Type O (there is some help in the Encyclopedia on this one - but i could do with your input) Morphoea - Type A I need to know whether glucosamine hydrochloride (which is used as a more bioavailable product than sulphate in the UK) does it work in the same way as Glucosamine Sulphate does in deflecting lectins? if it doesn't I need to put all my clients back on Gluco Sulphate. Thank you Heidi, you are a great help and you reply!! Sarah

Hello, Sarah! For spondylosis, the best resource I can offer you is this one. Of course, a strictly ER-compliant diet, daily use of homemade broth, plenty of mineral-enriched water and plant-based anti-inflammatories like quercetin should be used to reduce damage and allow greater mobility, but mobility is the central thing to address directly through physical therapy. The same goes for AS. In the case of morphoea, all I can say is that Peter has had spectacular reports from people with scleroderma simply following the straight BTD diet. Using N-acetyl D-glucosamine would be indicated for lectin-baiting -- neither the sulphate nor the hydrochloride -- in conjunction with chondroitin sulphate, as well as the additional modifications to the diet according to secretor status. Deflect-A, available through www.stacktheme.com, would be of great assistance to those clients. I hope I clearly understood & answered what you asked, Sarah ~ if not, please let me know! thanks, dear!! :-D




I'm type A, I like to know yhe different betwen "Gluten Flour" and "gluten free Bread", because both are Neutral for type A and "gluten Flour" include gluten and "gluten free bread" exclude gluten. Regards, Guillermo

Hello, Guillermo! The difference between them, as you noted, is that one contains gluten (sometimes it means high-gluten) and the other does not. These are terms which are common here in the States to describe certain products. For you, there is probably no need to know those terms, unless you see them on the foods you buy. Always look at the ingredients of each product -- gluten-free bread, for instance, often contains potato which is an avoid for type A. Gluten flour may contain whole wheat, or wheat bran or germ, all of which are also avoids for type A. When in doubt about any ingredient, check with TYPEbase. Remember to use only a one-word search term, and hit the "search" button, since the keyboard "enter" key doesn't work on that page.

Thanks for writing, Guillermo! :-D




Dear Heidi, How are you? As mentioned in previous E-Mails to you; my blood type/Rh factor is "A" Positive, A1/A2 type is A/1, "MN" type is "MN". and secretor status is "Secretor" per saliva specimen and "DOUBLE LEWIS NEGATIVE"(LeA-,LeB-)per blood draw. Sometime ago, I was reading a book titled "The Answer is in Your Bloodtype" by two authors: Steven M. Weissberg, M.D., and Joseph Chrisitano, A.P.P.T., written back in 1999. (This book is NOT related to Dr. D'Adamo's publications). I came across some information concerning A1/A2 subtypes. I will print these passages word for word. MY QUESTION TO YOU IS THIS? DO THESE PARAGRAPHS PRINTED WORD FOR WORD COINCIDE WITH DR. D'ADAMO'S RESEARCH INFORMATION? PLEASE NOTE AND ADVISE. Thank you very much. Marshal in Wichita, KS. HERE IS THE FIRST PARAGRAPH FROM PAGE 26: There are A1 and A2 Types. AS A2 was the first adaption of Type O, it carries many of the genetic characteristics of Type o, especially in the area of muscle mass and the ability to eat a wider variety of foods than Type A1. In our research, we found individuals who were A2 by virtue of muscle mass, but had to eat vegetarian to stay healthy. Those who did not follow a vegetarian diet invariably developed high blood pressure or heart disease. We also found other A2 types who did not exhibit muscle mass but were able to tolerate meat proteins with little or no evident side effects. HERE ARE THE 4 REMAINING PARAGRAPHS FROM PAGES 37 & 38: 1)The first mutation from blood type O was A. As stated earlier, there are A1 and A2 types. The A2 Type evolved first, and was the first to move from an environment of plentiful animal food to regions where no animals existed, or were not abundant. Since A2 Type is a partial mutation of Type O, individuals of this trait carry much of the muscle genetics of Os and can eat a variety of animal proteins that A1s cannot tolerate. 2)It is believed the A2 type developed by mutating partially to a different diet, specifically vegetarian, through migration to areas where meat was not available, then back to places where it was again available. A second theory, which is not fully understood, holds that a partial mutation took place requiring the A2 to maintain muscle for survival reasons, but the mutation did not fully extend to the digestive tract which had already made the adjustment away from meat protein. A third theory would propose that because the A2 was the first mutation from blood type O, that individuals of this blood carry the O gene thereby allowing them many of the characteristics of the O gene, but not to the extent of the dominant O gene individuals. This is still a mystery to anthropologists. Nevertheless, there is no doubt the A blood type is the only partially mutated gene; this does not exist for the other blood types. 3)The vast majority of Type A individuals are A1. Since these individuals migrated to Europe, Asia, and Australia, regions totally different from the plentiful plains of Africa where animal protein was abundant, their systems evolved to survive on food sources, mainly fruits, vegetables and grains. This was totally different than their ancestor Os, who lived primarily on meat proteins and no grains whatsoever. In fact, their mutation is so complete as to be healthy; Type A1s must avoid almost all animal protein in favor of a vegetarian diet. 4)The interesting diversity of the A type is a true challenge to understand. In fact some of the most muscular individuals we encountered were all A2 Types, who maintained their muscle mass on meat protein and not a vegetarian diet. However, the meat-eating subjects, almost to the last, developed heart disease at an early age. They looked strong physically, but internally; they were time bombs. We did find exceptions, but they were just that. -- Marshal

Hello, Marshal! I have to say that I never bought that book, because it is primarily a blatant copy of Peter's work (typos and all) and I have no desire to enrich criminals. The observations about A1 and A2 types may be worthwhile, but without seeing any research to support them, I'm inclined to view them as fuzzy conclusions of the kind people like me, with no medical background, would make. Interesting, sure! Who knows? I don't. Thanks for writing in with this, though, dear! I've put it up here in its entirety for review by others, and I do appreciate your bringing it to my attention! :-D




I'm new to this diet, effective yesterday! I asked a question a few days ago and saw no response. I've read so many other discussions by searching for "wheat" but still can't find the answer so I'm trying again. I'm type B. I want/need to avoid wheat. Does that mean I avoid any bread/cracker/tortilla products that list any kind of wheat, even as a subcategory? For instance, a product ingredient list will say Enriched White Floor and then in parentheses is will list wheat flour, etc. etc. Nearly every package of bread/cracker/tortilla I pick up has some wheat in it. If I've missed this in the book I apologize, but I don't know where to draw the line on wheat and am really striving to stay within the diet! Hoping to see a response. Ann-S

Hi, Ann! WELCOME to the last diet (and the first non-diet) you'll ever follow, dear!!!

I am "alone" here, and field numerous questions daily, so please don't be put out if your answer does not appear within a day or two. It can take me up to two weeks to get current, depending on the number of people writing in.

Yes, avoid any product which contains an avoid. And for Bs and Os, nearly all commercial grain products are to be avoided due to the inclusion of wheat and/or corn. Use the TYPEbase database, linked on our home page, to verify the updated status of any single food item.

Thanks for stopping by here, and I hope once you're accustomed to the injunctions against wheat and corn, you'll settle in happily as so many of us have done! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Qs of all kinds, from As, Bs & Os! :-)

January 4th, 2001 , by admin



Dear Heidi, a nutritionist recommended I start the Blood Group diet. I'm an O type. I've recently been diagnosed as having an ulcer and also have the bacterial bug in my stomach too - my doctor gave me 3 types of antibiotics which made be really ill and I had to stop taking them after 2 days. After returning to my GP he said I should have finished the course even though I felt so ill. I've had a series of illnesses including Pelvic Inflammatory Infections , Cystitis and have also recently been diagnosed with Endomentriosis. I don't really want to take any more antibiotics as over the last 6 months I have almost been taking them non-stop for one thing or another. In the first book (the eat right diet) Dr D'Adamo talked about Bladderwrack and a Liquorice preparation - would this help in getting rid of any bug that may be left in my stomach without taking further antibiotics? From the Endoscopy I had done the consultant said my current ulcer was found to be healing. I'd really appreciate any help. thx Josie.



Josie, you're absolutely on the right track to use bladderwrack and DGL (that's the licorice supp) for the H. pylori and to heal your stomach. The probiotic, PolyFlora-O available here in the Store is an essential item for you.



There are four pages on cystitis in the BTD Complete Blood Type Encyclopedia, including protocols for the various blood types and related reading. I also suggest you order a saliva test from the Store here in order to determine your secretor status, as it sounds to me as if you are a nonnie.



If you have Interstitial Cystitis, I'd like to direct you to something I came across recently. It is one woman's story of how she got rid of it, and since IC is so ill understood in the medical community, and she did a long course of research before finding help, it may be of immediate interest to you. Here's the link.



I hope you commit to following your diet and exercise plan -- it's the greatest healer of all, and the best insurance policy for the future. Avoidance of wheat, dairy and coffee along with using those beneficial oils should remove the causes of the endometriosis and begin to resolve it. It will take some time, but this is the eminently sensible route to take, and you will be healthy again in far less time than it took to develop these conditions! Take care, Josie, and welcome to the BTD! :-D








Dear Heidi, thanks for answering Yelena's questions about following the protocols to fight stomach cancer. She had a surgery, and is recuperating now. Half of her stomach had to be removed along with the gallbladder and a small piece of the pancreas. She is on the chemotherapy. 1) Cancer Prevention protocol has Coriolis Versicolor Mushroom, which is toxic. Maybe she can use the Cancer Prevention, but without Coriolus for now? 2) Any suggestions on where to get all this stuff for protocols. Most health/organic/herbals stores do not have everything. I am having trouble finding Bupleurim Chinense in a pure form in capsules. It is always mixed with milk thistle, which is not good for her blood type (B). Same with Rehmannia Root and White Atractylodes. Coriolis Mushroom is also a rarity. Thanks for your help, -Ilya



Hello, Ilya! I'm glad Yelena is past the worst now. If you cannot find those specific supplements in an acceptable form, the others will work just fine for her. First, she should be strictly on her diet -- second, use ARA6, a food-based vitamin C (like acerola cherry powder), the Harmonia drink from this Store, and the items which *are* available to you from the four different protocols (cancer prevention, chemotherapy adjunct, chronic illness recovery, and surgery recovery). No need to use every item in those protocols. Also, if I were she, I'd order several bottles of Heallix and take it according to the instructions on the bottle.



Please convey my heartfelt wishes for her swift recovery, Ilya! We are all thinking of her, and hoping she will be well in short order! :-D








Hi Heidi, I'm really enjoying reading your column daily, and looking back over past ones. Thanks also to the lady who wrote in about my not being ready for lamb yet. When I said that, what I was really meaning was that I haven't eaten meat since on my honeymoon 13 years ago - however, when I did eat meat, lamb was my favorite! You were a vegetarian at one time, right? What did you say to folks when you started eating meat again? I've been preaching vegetarianism for a long time, and telling our 4 year old that we don't eat dead animals (except fish). Not quite sure what to say to friends and family if I start eating meat again, especially since my husband (an A) probably shouldn't. Thanks! Ann



Hi, Ann! Well, you're in a pickle -- especially with the 4-year-old. ;-)



What did I tell people? I was in much your situation, having opened my mouth to all and sundry on the horrors of every aspect of meat-eating. When I leapt right into the BTD, there was a minor stir in my circle, to say the least. There's no escaping this, so facing up to it as volubly as I'd broadcast my former views was the only option. It pretty much came down to three different responses (depending on the interested party) to those wondering about my overnight transformation from fasting Ehretist to carnivore extraordinaire.



(1) The ones who really wanted an in-depth explanation got the full story of my acne & hair loss problems, visit to the acupuncturist, reactions to reading BTD, the basic concept of ABO relating to activity, digestion and disease, etc., and an excited initial report on how I felt. After a few weeks, the comparison between my old passport photo and the "new me" was enough to convince the smart folks that maybe I wasn't nuts after all. The tough ones to face were those who had pooh-pooh'ed my dietary gymnastics from the start. To them I'd say, "You're right, I was a doof. However, let's talk about beneficial polysaccharides...." ;-)



(2) To die-hard vegan buddies, I would say: "I worked it for fifteen years, but it didn't work for me. If in all that time I never managed to 'do it right,' then I'm just too stupid to be vegan."



(3) Confused store owners & shop clerks who looked aghast at my shopping cart got, "I changed my mind. I want to live." -- and a mad cackle accompanied by a swift exit. LOL!



Not sure #'s 2 and 3 will help you, but some brief version of #1 might. For the little one, "Mommy found out she needs these kinds of foods because of her blood type" should suffice. That can segue into what Daddy needs, and what kiddie needs. "We are natural creatures, made (like all animals) to eat certain things, and sometimes we make mistakes about food because of what we believe, rather than what we really physically need. We all learn new things every day, even Mommy, and this is a new thing that is very good and very important."



Yes, you'll have to eat a little crow over your new choices, it's probably unavoidable. But think how good that lamb will taste afterward! ;-D Things will work out beautifully, I'm sure. It'll just take some time, and an acquiescence to a few feathers in your teeth until everyone's settled down with the New You. One does experience a little loss of credibility in situations like this, but the long-term prospects are very, very bright. Keep in touch, dear, and let us know how it all unfolds. ;-D








Hi Heidi! I just read in today's 5/10 OTD response to Angie, an O, your suggestion to add a 1/2 tsp. of grey sea salt per gallon of water. It's the first time I've seen you suggest grey sea salt, (versus white?) - I've always read your suggestion just to add a pinch of sea salt to water. Is grey always prefered, or was that for her specifically? What about iodide versus non? What is your recommendation for me, a type B+ secretor, in terms of the best salt to add for maximum absorption, and the time-lapse around meals? I have been trying to wait an hour and a half after eating, and I'm having trouble drinking enough in a day, if I wait that long, before I know I need to stop cause I'm hungry and going to have something again soon. Is it necessary to wait even before and after ingesting tea, coffee, or juice? Thanks for your help! Love, Lizza



Hi, Lizza! Gray sea salt is always preferred for everything, as it is the kind that has all those wonderful trace minerals in it. It's not an "iodized" salt per se, but contains a natural balance of trace elements. You can have your water before, during and after your coffee or tea or juice, no need to wait. Remember that 1/2 your body weight in ounces is plenty for you, and you can divide it into, say, four quantities so that you have a single large glass to "glug down" if you like, upon rising, between three meals, and a couple of hours after dinner. I hope this helps, Lizza, and thanks for your note, dear! :-D








Thanks for answering my previous questions. I am a Type A, Secretor and adhere to a diet that contains 90.5% beneficials, 9.5% neutrals, and 0.0% avoids. That diet has been quite successful as my BMI has dropped from 35.0 to its current value of 22.7 in a little over one year and my health has been excellent. My questions are on taking Deflect. It is my understanding that a major effect of Deflect is to provide sacrificial sugars to bind and remove dietary lectins. However, my diet with 90.5% beneficials, contains many lectins which are good for Type A's and very few that are bad. Would continuing to take Deflect in this case be counterproductive? I currently take a maintenance dose of one capsule per day, before I go to bed, with the rationale that it will scavenge any stray lectins and/or be of benefit in other ways. I am apprehensive about taking it with regular meals, though, because they contain mostly good lectins. Is Deflect able to distinguish between good and bad lectins? Al



Hello, Al ~~ The sacrificial sugars are lectin-specific, so no need to worry that they would grab the peanut or soy lectins, for example. However, your regimen has worked so well for you that I would leave it just as is -- no need to take the Deflect with meals. It will continue to do good things for you. ;-)



I'm SO happy to hear your great BMI report, and that you're enjoying excellent health. Great to hear from you, and please feel free to write again, Al! :-D








Hi Heidi, Quick question about your flax seed recipe. Is it alright to follow your recipe to drink with water after soaking if I have not ground up the flaxseeds and just chew as I go? I don't have any intestinal/digestive issues just want to keep some old toxins moving right along. Also I add golden flax seeds to many of dishes both hot and cold. Is there a difference between the golden and the darker? (A2 nonny) Also just got flax bran and am going to use it for my O nonny sister where I would normally use oat bran. Will let you know. Have you had any experience with it? Thank you!! Nina



Hi, Nina ~ The benefit of grinding *then* soaking is the gel which forms from the flax innards. It's certainly fine to do what you're doing.



Gold flax apparently works better for some people who are sensitive to brown flax seeds. I'm not sure what the active elements are which differ between the two types, but results are what count. It is more expensive, so if that is a concern and no adverse reactions to brown flax are noticed, I'd stick with the brown kind. The hulls or bran of flax are fine for all blood types! ;-) thanks for writing, Nina, and I'm glad you're enjoying your "nonnie email project." :-D








Hi Heidi Everyone appears to loose weight on their correct diet plan but I have the opposite problen.Two years ago I dropped 26lbs because of illness and I would like to regain it.Is it possible the B plan would help me back to my normal weight. Looking forward to hearing from you. Brid



[she's in dublin]



Hallo, Brid! Yes, absolutely. These plans have three parts: diet, exercise and stress-relief. Following them in all respects will bring weight gain or weight loss, depending upon the body's needs. The whole idea is "balancing the physiology." This brings healing of illness, as well.



I hope you decide to embark upon the B plan, and I extend a very warm welcome to you, dear! Write in whenever the mood strikes, and best wishes to you! :-D








Hello again Heidi, All's well with the A type diet for this Aussie, and having lots of interesting conversations with people about their own food, and finding in particular that the blood group relates closely to their preferred activity level (ie guess which blood group my friends are who like getting hot and sweaty!).Today's question on your page about blood groups and fashionable diet plans resonates with me, as I have also seen that connection since first reading ERFYT. What would be interesting to study would be the connection between cultural food plans and predominant blood types, also longevity and blood group food adherence. Anyway,today I want to mention your references to water.I couldn't find it by researching on your page.I've just read the book called I think, "Your body's many cries for water" and although the author does not seem to value food highly (we can't all be perfect!) he does argue well for copious amounts of water in the diet.I used to think that thirst was the signal for drinking, but now discover that it is one of the later signs of dehydration! Anyway, I tried to drink one and a half litres per day, but find that a struggle, so compromise with one litre per day, but also of course using a lot of extra water in soups, hot and cold flavoured drinks. I think I saw you mention four litres one day, and wondered if you meant that to include all sources of water including coffee, cooking etc.I think I would explode if I drank 4 litres of pure water. Cheerio, have a happy day. Jenny



Hey there, Jenny! Nice to hear from you! and good ideas on research projects. ;-)



I use four liters as a quantity that will "do the job" for just about anyone, but strictly speaking, it should be the amount in ounces which is one-half your bodyweight in pounds. 128 pounds? 64 ounces (approx. two liters) of water, each with a pinch of good (gray) sea salt. 256 pounds? 128 ounces (one gallon, approx. four liters). Just adjust accordingly. I sometimes drink more than a gallon in a day, for hard exercise in hot weather, for example. So do feel free to adjust the quantities, but try to take in the minimum (1 ounce salted water for every 2 pounds of bodyweight) daily -- water alone, mind you! tea & juice & soups don't count. ;-) thanks for your note, my dear! ;-D








Heidi, I'm concerned about my very low ferritin level. I'm type A2, secretor (don't know more than that). My ferritin level was just checked and it's a 12....very low. I take sublingual B12, 5 mg every day....but I was wondering if I could be in need of something like grass fed beef or some other food that will raise the level to at least normal. I've been off beef for 25 years and I'm wondering if this is the reason. Allergic to eggs and cheese so I have no clue how any foods from type A diet could raise my ferritin level. My iron level was 135, so I don't think it's as abnormally low as the ferritin and I think this is the first time I have had ferritin levels checked. I'm age 60. Any clues here about what to eat to raise this level? Maddy



Hello, Maddy! About the iron, my understanding is that the normal adult range is 30 - 170 mcg/dl -- but the numbers do vary from country to country (and lab to lab for that matter). what does your lab report say about the ranges?



I'd certainly not add red meat for you, but there are other strategies which would be far more effective.



For low ferritin (less than 43 µg/L for women) with hemoglobin in the low to high ranges, usually, an iron malate or iron citrate supplement would be recommended. I'd suggest including a variety of iron-rich foods, taken with vitamin C (which enhances absorption). Think of food combinations, as well: fish added to a meal of black beans doubles the absorption of the iron in the beans. Add fish to meals of legumes, dark leafy greens (cooked) and grains, and have a couple of tablespoons of blackstrap molasses daily. Have your ferritin levels checked again in six months. If the improvement is insufficient, then I'd definitely begin an iron supplement under the supervision of a knowledgeable nutrition counselor. Good health to you, Maddy, and please keep me posted on your situation, OK? :-D








Hi Heidi, Please help! A friend and I are considering purchasing a distilled water system for our homes. Before spending thousands of dollars could you tell us if this system is more beneficial than others. Both of homes have reverse osmosis systems. The water in our reverse osmosis systems has been tested and still show some degree of bacteria whereas, the distilled system does not. We know the distilled system however, extracts all minerals which can be beneficial. Could you please give us your thoughts as to which system you recommend. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all your knowledge and for your wonderful column. Anne



Hi, Anne! Please bear in mind that I'm not very knowledgable about water systems. I live in a NYC apartment and wouldn't drink the tap water in a fit -- not because of the water itself (which is excellent), but because of the ancient distribution system through which it travels many miles before it reaches me, including the 80-year-old pipes in my own building. No good. So I use spring water for drinking & filtered water for cooking. If only I could get a shower filter that would fit on the antiquated bathroom fixture, I could even stop bathing in chemicals. :-(



In your situation, I'd simply not use the distilled water for drinking. For everything else (except watering plants or animals) it would be perfectly fine. You can purchase liquid minerals to drop into your drinking water, but that procedure may turn into a bit of a bore. If the cost of regular delivery of good spring water, added to the cost of the distilled system, would be prohibitive, I'd look closely into the source of the contamination and see what pressure might be brought to bear at the source of the bacteria before spending good money on bad water. Are you in farm country, or is there some other source of the baddies?



Anyway, I can't offer a solution, but that's how I'd approach the problem. Good luck, dear, and please let me know what transpires there! It's a shame we can't even get clean water without major expenditure these days, eh?? :-D










HI, I have adenomyosis and I would like to know what I can, to get rid of it, the physicians have told me my only alternative is a hysterectomy. Sincerely, Angelien



Hi, Angelien ~~ The physicians have told you wrong. Could you write back with your blood type (I'm not sure if you're the same Angelien who wrote previously?), age, any trauma to the uterus, and what your normal diet & exercise regimen is? thanks, dear! Surgery is a WAY last resort -- I'm sure we can put our heads together on this and come up with a cure for you. Take care, and write soon! :-D










Posted in On The Diet

Water... Fish... Calcium... Synthroid... Seed Boy ... and Indian-food loving Os ! :-D

January 3rd, 2001 , by admin





Okay, Heidi. Throw me a lifeline! I'm drowning in a sea of confusion about this issue of water, water everywhere....and what to drink? Here's my thinking: Tap water is a no-no because of chemicals/additives, bad plumbing, etc. Bottled spring water is a good choice for everyday drinking. Mineral water, because of it's high mineral content, is preferred if doing saunas, strenuous physical acitivity, etc. that rapidly depletes minerals from the body. Where do the "purified" waters, ie. home filtration systems and "fill your own gallon jugs at the local grocery store" fit in? If cost is a factor, these are a lot less expensive than bottled spring water for drinking and cooking, but are they the next best thing to spring water or are they closer to distilled water? DO THEY NEED THE ADDITION OF GREY SEA SALT? If so, is 1/2 tsp./gal about right? As always, your input is greatly appreciated. Joyce

Hi, Joyce! Mineral water is a good thing to have, even daily, whether you are engaging in rapid-mineral-depletion activities or not. Both filtered waters and regular spring water (which contains only trace minerals, but is an excellent natural water source if it's certified as uncontaminated) can be helped with a pinch of mineral-rich gray sea salt 1/2 teaspoon per gallon is fine! hope this helps clear it all up, dear!! :-D




Heidi, I'm going to take Dorothy's suggestion and use Floradix to try and raise my very low ferrritin levels, although I've been doing what you suggested with the fish, beans, vitamin C and molasses. Won't be tested again for awhile. Also now I have another problem. Although I eat no eggs, cheese, meat or saturated fats, my HDL is 90 but my LDL is 177. My overall ratio is good, but my total cholesterol is way too high. I've been a semi vegetarian eating fish, fruits, veggies, beans, seeds, nuts, soy, chicken, turkey and hardly any grains. What on earth is left to do? I've read about red rice yeast. Is that a safe supplement to take for lowering the LDL? (type A2+) Any other suggestions? (My doctor just did a genetic test on me to see if my high cholesterol is inherited..but even it if is, I have to lower it) Also, what is wrong with drinking distilled water? We have very imbalanced well water that needs a lot of softening or else it leaves a thick, white hard ring of minerals around the plumbing... We bypassed our drinking water so it's coming straight from the well and not going through the softener, but it's ultra hard in minerals. Is that a good thing? I thought the sea minerals were better and felt it might be healthier to drink distilled water and supplement with minerals like Phytocal. I'm confused. Maddy

Hey there, Maddy ~~ Red yeast rice is superb for lowering cholesterol. Again, I heartily recommend the product available at this site!. Flax oil and/or flax seed is well known for modulating HDL/LDL levels -- are you OK with it, and are you taking it? In addition, if I were you I'd include gingko and hawthorn on a daily basis, as heart protectives while you're bringing your lipid levels to their optimal state. How are the triglycerides, by the way?

About your water, I'd get an assay from your local authority on the mineral content and contaminant levels. This is usually done by some permutation of the county water department -- you'll be able to find the right division by thumbing through the government section of your phone book. Then compare those levels with a high-solids, well-balanced mineral water like Gerolsteiner (you can find that info on www.mineralwaters.org). Who knows, you might have the equivalent of free Gerolsteiner coming out of your tap! Whoo!! ;-)




Heidi, Good Morning from the high desert! This is not a question just a couple of pssible helps. I noticed a comment about 'beans and gas' some time back. You may already be aware of this but thought I would Mention KOMBU a sea veg. from Eden foods when added to beans while cooking them (RAW)can cut down on the gas and the amount of time they take to cook. Also a great way to get extra nutrients.

About the question of distilled water; I ran across a web sight with that topic the other day. It is throgh GOOGLE and the topic DISTILLED WATER. There are several interesting research papers on the health hazards of drinking disitlled water.

One last comment; I too am an O+ and use to "Preach" vegetarianism, infact I thought it was the ONLY way all humans should approach their meals. I read Peter's 1st book and decided it was NOT for me back in 1997. Since then I have made some great changes in my approach to 'diet' and education of the puplic; as I am a Certified Nutrtionist and former health food store owner. I even attened the first conference in Tempe. So to the point a couple of quotes that I found may help in what I say to others about my NEW education level and Lifestyle plan "What I learned after I knew it all~is the most important." and "The beliefs which have lead you to where you are today, are not the same as those which will lead you to where you wish to go." Gee, at one time we thought Earth was flat! Thanks for your time and I appreciate the way you present and communicate to all in your column. Blessings, Beverly

Hello, Beverly ~~ Wish I could see what you see from your window right now! :-) Good reminder on kombu. In my macrobiotic days, I bought it in bulk. A piece went in the bottom of every pan in which beans were to be cooked.

I LOVE YOUR QUOTE!!



That's a gem for all you folks out there who feel frustrated when people who are ill think they MUST already be "eating healthy" because they're doing what the FDA and the magazine "dieticians" have been telling them to do for years. MANY THANKS for your note, Beverly, and warmest congratulations on being someone who's committed to open-hearted learning and providing the absolute best possible care for your clients. Bless you, dear! :-D




hi heidi, re the flouride issue, just a couple of weeks ago, here in oz, one of the big news reports was that kids are getting rotten teeth more frequently and more serverly now, and the reason?...... not more junk food or snacks, oh no, its because they are drinking too much bottled water!!!!! they reckon that the bottled water doesnt contain the necessary fluoride so their teeth are rotting!!!! a bit unbelievable eh? just thought id pass it on!!! ros

!!!!!!! Maddening, aren't they? If the market for fluoride "softens" in one direction (sales of fluoridated toothpaste are down), they just work it harder in another direction ("authoritative reports" (scare jobs)). SIGH!! Thanks, ros!! :-D




Hi Heidi, I'm Type O and I want to know if fish sauce (used in Asian dishes) is ok. I would also like to know, what is the difference between the peppers - chilli pepper, pepper(yellow, green, jalapeno) and pepper(red,cayenne). Thanks for your time. Chantelle

australian

MMMMMmmm, I love fish sauce! "Nuoc mam" is what I think the Vietnamese call it, and the Thai version is "nam pla."

Read the label carefully -- you may need a translator on some of them! ;-) and go on a product-by-product basis. Remember that not everything you find on the market, specifically in tiny mom & pop shops in Asian market areas, will fully disclose or describe all the ingredients. Some cheaper fish sauces contain caramel and water, so if you're a nonsecretor, that's off limits.

Now for the really bad news (for me, anyway): Technically, fish sauce is OK only for A nonsecretors and O secretors.... unfortunately!! That's because it's traditionally (and currently -- ALWAYS, in fact, to my knowledge) made from anchovies. SIGH!!! You see, they pack anchovies (sometimes other fish as well) & salt into big barrels and leave them to ferment for months. They occasionally drain off some of the liquid from a spigot at the bottom, which they add to the top. After about six months, it's "done" and the liquid is collected and bottled -- and you've got nuoc mam!

There are three grades of fish sauce -- the first draining (the "best," very clear -- designated "nhi") the second, and the third. The highest quality is said to be made 100% from anchovies, and is labeled "ca com." Are you now experiencing information overload? :-)

I do hold out some vague and probably slim hope that fermentation of anchovy by this method renders its galectin harmless to me. But I ain't counting on it. :-(

"Chili pepper" refers generally to the chiles (hot peppers), which vary stupendously in size, color, and taste but are generally far smaller than the sweet peppers. They are the very, very hotties.

"Pepper (yellow, green)" and "pepper (red)" refer to bell peppers (or "sweet peppers"). We should also say, "(orange, purple, etc.)," since although the red bell pepper is the ripe version of the green, there have been many hybrids developed which when ripe are yellow or orange or pink or purple or nearly black ... you get the idea. They're all the baseball-to-softball-sized peppers with thick green stems and three to six "sections" which you can see on the outside by the clefts running from the stem-end to the bottom.

Jalapenos are a moderately-to-viciously hot pepper, varying between individual plants and at least two several varieties. The two I've seen are either oval, dark green with thick smooth flesh, between one & three inches long -- or thin-fleshed, pale green, long & tubular with a pointy end and bends, wrinkles & turns, and between two and five inches long.

"Cayenne pepper" refers to the dried, powdered tiny hot pepper of the same name, which preparation we find here in every supermarket spice rack.

For your further reading pleasure, here's a site with good photos of several common varieties. Under "Hot Capsicum," the dark green one cut in half is one of the jalapenos I mentioned. They don't get into much detail on which pic is what, so if you'd like more in-depth info, here's a site for that. Enjoy!!




In the book you write that group O people should take coleus forskohli if they don't eat meat. Please give me some adress where can I buy coleus forskohli> Thank you - ph

Hi there! Doing a search with your favorite web search engine (alltheweb.com, google.com, or another) for "Coleus forskohlii" specifying French sites only should give you several places where you can purchase it. Here is one I found on a quick search: Alban Muller botanicals. If you still have difficulty finding it, let me know and I'll try to help! thanks for writing!! :-D




Hi Again Heidi Thanks for all your time and attention. You must have a huge following! I'm really glad you mentioned Coffee as something that can cause inflammation because although I'd given it up, I still had an occasional cup of decaf. Sometimes one per afternoon. After four days of no coffee, my morning tissue use reduced about 90%! And a week later when I tried a cup, I got all stuffed up that night. Are there any other things I can eliminate that will help reduce my kleenex addiction? I'm an O secretor and am generally about 80% compliant. I don't sweat the small stuff. For example, at home I only use Tamari but if I eat sushi at a restaurant, I don't worry about the Tbsp. or so of soy sauce I consume. That's the only wheat I ever eat. Same for salad dressing. At home I never get any with corn syrup/vinegar/etc, but when I eat out, I enjoy just enough dressing to make the salad edible. I'm already taking the Nettle and Quercetin. I tried the Collinsonia but I seemed to feel worse when I took that. (But might have been fighting that long flu that went around last winter?) Any other tips you might have would be very much appreciated. Diane p.s. the vegetable glycerine seems to really help! My rice and sugar consumption is way down and I haven't had chocolate since Easter! Hooray for "On the Diet" -- Diane

~~:-D Hooray for Diane! ~~:-D

Collinsonia canadensis is good for chronic swelling of sinus tissues, including hemorrhoids, but unless you're having sinus headaches and so forth, it probably won't do much for you.

What I'm curious about is whether there's a food substance that's triggering a little extra immune response (in the form of mucus) or if it may be environmental, or if this is just part of processing the old released toxins through your system. Are you getting solid regular exercise? If not, I'd go in that direction first. It's truly wonderful for working the organs and speeding up toxic release. Otherwise, I'd start taking Deflect at the low dose on the bottle. If neither has any effect on the mucus, please let me know, OK? You're a sweetie, Diane -- hope these tips help! :-)




Hi Heidi, I can't seem to find this answer anywhere. It's a general diet question. I'm an O and am following the program pretty strictly with mostly beneficial foods and a some neutrals. I feel great. There are a couple of foods on the avoid list that I tend to keep in. I stay away from the major no-nos like wheat and dairy. But it's been hard to give up black tea and when dining out I have the occasional baked potato. Am I counteracting the positive by having a few negatives? Thanks Christina

Hey there, Christina. An avoid doesn't cancel out a beneficial. It just does what it does, while the beneficial does what IT does. ;-) They're separate issues for the most part. I think you're doing a marvelous job!! As time goes on, you may find you're happier choosing alternatives to the occasional black tea and potato, but I think it's important to give yourself time and space to decide that on your own. How you feel right now is the single most important proof that you're doing the right things for yourself! Do enjoy it, and just go along in comfort! Thanks for your message!! :-D




Hi Heidi- I'm puzzled by how I feel, and I am hoping you can help me try to figure things out:) I am a 38 year old O-, (waiting for the results on the secretor test, but I am guessing I am a non-secretor). I have Hashimotos Thyroiditis which I've had since I was 12 or so, but officially diagnosed and treated at age 26 after years of suffering. I take Synthroid 137, (Synthroid was the only option that was presented to me, although I know now that I have other options) and I also fortify myself with supplements: NAP's Pre-Natals & Probiotic, Co-Enzyme B-Complex, Chromium, Wobenzyme & Vitamin C. I exercise everyday, stretching, yoga, treadmill, walking and I am very conscientious about the food I eat since my body seems to be highly sensitive (sensitive to touch, smells, reacts strongly to bad foods, etc).

I make sure I eat HB proteins and foods, eat veggies and stay away from all grains, with brown rice as the only one I can digest and do OK with. I've been on this path for almost four years, getting gradually more stringent with each food reaction. With all that effort I still can't seem to find a healthy balanced feeling. I often have headaches, sometimes escalating into a migraine. I feel achy in my neck, hands, feet, wrists, ankles and in other points throughout my body. I have stuffiness in my head and nose, dry eyes and a general drained feeling. This feeling is most pronounced in the morning, sometimes clearing later in the day and sometimes not. Sometimes it even comes on later in the day. My body seems to gets blocked and it manifest itself with aches and pains finding some relief when I massage my feet, hands, neck and other points, resulting in, oddly enough, air burps and improvement. My temperature in the morning runs from 97.5 to 98.3 and in the evening can drop to 96.7 or so. My husband an AB+ (also a Hashimotos sufferer) and I have been trying to get pregnant without much luck. We did have a pregnancy that ended up not being successful and even though all our tests are fine and the plumbing is working we haven't been able to conceive again. So, I am perplexed. I've recently been to an acupuncturist and had a wonderful relaxed feeling after the first session, but no relief after the second session. I've ordered the NAP deflect thinking that it might assist my body in getting rid of whatever is going on. What else can I do and what could possibly be going on with me? Susan



Hi there, Susan! Has your doctor done a recent full thyroid profile on you? I'm thinking that either you're experiencing side-effects from this drug, you need the dosage adjusted, or it was the wrong drug for you to begin with. I've been told that once on Synthroid, going to a natural glandular "isn't possible," but I think this is anecdotal, and finding a replacement that works is certainly worthy of investigation on your part. You shouldn't be having these problems.

The second thing that concerns me is that your doctor has not already offered you some other product instead of Synthroid, which has had so many complaints that the FDA was to withdraw its approval unless the makers made changes to the drug and made a new request for approval. They didn't even bother to do so! If I were you, I would make the health of you and your husband the priority, and wait on starting a family until you have accomplished those goals. Pregnancy and baby-rearing are incredibly intense demands to place upon a mom who isn't well.

Bear in mind that as an O-, you can make antibodies to your husband's A, B and Rh Positive genetic material. In addition, if it turns out you're a secretor, your reproductive tract is lined with O antigens which may not feel awfully happy about those "alien invaders." ;-) This is NOT to say you can't have children together!! :-) It's just that you may have a more difficult time conceiving, and if you do become pregnant, you should definitely have the rhesus immunoglobulin shot at 26 weeks at the latest, to prevent formation of anti-RH+ antibodies which could harm the babe. Do discuss that with your doctor and make sure they follow up at the appropriate time.

Susan, please let me know what your doc says about Synthroid, and if he gives you a FULL thyroid panel, what the levels and lab reference ranges are. I wouldn't suggest you change your diet at all, nor do I think taking more supps will help. Please do keep me posted, OK? Very best to you and your husband, dear!! :-D




Hi Heidi, I apologize for the rather rude sounding calcium email. Yes I have been giving my blood type. I'll give it again though. It's A+ Secretor. Thank you Nina for the input. I haven't been eating any nightshade vegetables and it hasn't made any difference in my pain. My arthritis is brought on by a congenital hip displacement deformity. I probably always was lacking the cartiladge...

In case you're wondering, Heidi, where it says about calcium for arthritis, you neglected to check the "Blood Type A Food, Beverage and Supplement Lists" Page 66. I knew I had read it and I went home to look it up and I was racking my brains trying to remember which book it's in. I have all of them. I finally as my last resort, checked the small booklet and it was in there.

I mentioned that it doesn't matter what kind of calcium supplement I take. I've tried them all. Phosphate isn't too bad though.It's in Ovaltine and I drink some of that every day and I get no headache.

I have not tried Dr. D'Adamo's calcium yet. I'm leery. Usually, carbonate is the worst like he mentions in his book. I took Lactate in pill form and it lasted the longest before it triggered the headache. My question is: He mentions that A blood type's best absorbed calcium is "Lactate". He offers the kelp-calcium formulation in the A store though. Does he recommend that for A blood types as well? Do you ever actually ask him the answer if a question "stumps" you? Not trying to be rude again, I was just wondering. I'm not disappointed in his approach to health as a whole. I think you misunderstood. I found no other health professional explained my intolerances and tolerances and even my emotional state and ability to take on projects, stress levels, etc. so incredibly accurate! I have been trying to adhere to the A blood type diet plan. I was only disappointed in his prescribing calcium for arthritis. Have a Great Day, Diana

Hello, Diana! Oh, I didn't think you were rude. It did sound as if you were rather angry and quite unhappy, though. Yes, I have your blood type in mind -- I didn't think I asked for it again, but thank you kindly just the same!

Yes, I checked the four major books and the website, but not the Type A "little book." Thank you for the note -- I see it on page 66. While there are degenerative processes involved in some cases of arthritis which do involve the bone and will benefit from calcium supplementation -- as I mentioned in my previous answer -- I'll still pass this note on to Peter for his review.

I'm glad to hear it was not Phytocal-A that you had a reaction to -- I think this is the "kelp-calcium formulation" you are asking about? Calcium lactate is suggested to As as the most assimilable of the forms one can usually find in one's regular old neighborhood supp shop. Phytocal is a specialty product (which we didn't have when Eat Right was published) and far superior in that respect. There are four versions of Phytocal, one for each ABO type, so yes -- Phytocal-A would be the one he'd suggest if you wish to take a calcium supplement.

Forgive me if this is more information than you requested, but I noticed you're having Ovaltine every day? Just for your reference, all the sales sites I found had the following ingredients listed: Barley Malt Extract, Skim Milk, Cocoa Processed with Alkali, Whey, Glucose Syrup, Partially Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Eggs, Salt, Vanillin, Vitamins and Minerals. The milk, whey, sugars, hydrogenated oils, commercial eggs, artificial flavors & vitamins & minerals may not be doing you good service in your quest for better health.

I also noticed on the Pure Food.Org newsletter that Ovaltine was DNA tested and found to contain genetically-modified ingredients, even though the manufacturer doesn't list that fact on their label.

So I hope this is helpful, dear -- take good care of YOU! :-)




Hi, Heide!!! It,s me Bcha (Brazilian O+).You are probably tired of hearing how wonderful you are!! Well, I'm sorry but I must say: YOU ARE THE BEST!! You make people feel secure and keep going on their target!! Thank you VERY MUCH! I bought the Veg Gly but there is no sign about how much calories per tsp. I am over my weight and I need to go back and run as I used to. However I love eat...Oh! God...hehehehe!! I used to loose weight very fast but it's kind of hard now... I saw a fat diet pills on a health Store and I wonder if I could use a supplement with the ingredients: Garcinia Fruit(cambogia), Green Tea leaf, Coleus Root, Tumeric rhizome, Elder berry, Yohimbe bark,Bitter orange peel, Gymnema leaf, Bladderwarck fronds, Ginger rhizome Supercritical CO2 Extr.(zingiber off). Thanks for your attention! Bcha.

hey there, Bcha! you are very, very kind! ;-}

You know what I'm going to say though... Rather than spend money on weight-loss supplements (which usually do little or nothing except raise your blood pressure & resting heart rate), first please just start out with a little exercise every day and work gradually to increase it. If you do this for a month and still the fat isn't budging, write again and I'll suggest other things to do, OK? ;-)

For everything I know about vegetable glycerine, just go to the bottom of this page and type in "glycerine" and hit the search button. The "All about veg gly" column is a good place to start in that list. I don't think much of calorie-counting -- it's a reductionist thing that says a calorie from one kind of food is equivalent to a calorie from any other kind of food -- and we know that's way off the mark when looking at weight loss strategies for different blood groups. How does a steak of 800 calories help me lose weight, but the equivalent number from wheat would do the opposite? SO, my best advice is to not count on calorie-counting. ;-) Write again, dear, and thanks again for your friendly encouragement! :-D




Hi Heidi! It's your "seedy" B again, this time with a question about food intolerances and the definition of a "varied diet." One source suggested that no food should be eaten two days in a row. My question is what your view is -- i am trying to get that kind of variation, but, for many foods, the best i can strive for is a weekly alternation (of eliminations or additions). I understand the premise of the claim (though am not totally convinced). If you know of any resources about [this kind of food] intolerance/sensitivity, those would also be greatly appreciated, as most sources i have found concentrate on allergies and the specific lactose/gluten/etc. intolerances. Thank you so much for your feedback! matt, seed boy.

greetings, seed boy ~~ ;-D

A varied diet is great. Bs have a fabulous variety in foods, and I encourage you to explore them all in a creative and enjoyable way.

We've found that just being "pretty much" on the BTD has worked marvels for people who had tried everything else without success. That's one of the beautiful things about this plan: it's powerful while it's flexible while it's simple -- we're not weighed down with calorie counting or old-style food rotation or other restrictions that other plans use on everyone.

Like you, I'm not convinced that micromanaging one's food item frequency is the way to go, and I totally agree that the resources you'll find are very restrictive therapeutic protocols designed "one size fits all" to handle stubborn illnesses. I don't have a definition of a varied diet, per se ~~ but if you stick to your beneficials & neutrals and keep the portion/frequency tables as rough guidelines in the back of your mind, and just have fun with trying new foods now and again, I think you'll find EVERYTHING will fall into place for you.

You seem like a funny, intelligent person with a lot on the ball, who's trying to do the absolute best for himself. I applaud ALL that!! If I were you (yeah, I know, I'm not -- I can't even have strawberries, for Heaven's sake! LOL!) I would turn my energies to adapting exotic recipes for my use, and visiting some ethnic market every week with my new recipes in hand, finding cool ingredients to use in them. That's my gut feeling here: out with the alt-elimination-diet sites and in with the COOKBOOKS! cookbooks are fun. When someone's as well-grounded in the BTD as you are, having fun is what it's all about. A mind having fun is sending happy messages to all the body's 72 trillion cells, who respond back with their own tiny, joyous grins. Hoo-Rah!! :-D

And if this was all totally opaque and useless to your purposes, write again and I'll straighten up! :-D






Dear Heidi, I have a question about my boyfriend, David, a type o+ (not sure about secretor). Well, he is always complaining about his weight and how tired he is...he is kind of heavy around the middle, and feels better when he exercises, but doesn't always have the energy to do so. He is very interested in following the diet but if someone puts food in front of him, even if it is bad for type o, he will eat it, because he just loves to eat.

So I try to keep good things in the house for him...at home his diet mainly consists of:soy milk, he has rye crackers(no wheat), ezekeil bread, makes lots of rice/rice pasta, tons of sardines, salmon, apples, romaine lettuce and spinach, lots of tomatoes, onions, garlic, broccoli and olive oil. He really loves all these foods, especially fish. I can no longer buy cheese or milk without hiding it because he will consume all of it before I can even taste any.

Today we ate at an Indian restaurant (I'm type B so it's better for me I guess). As soon as we got home he said he felt like he was drugged and had to sleep for about 3 hours. I was fine. He believes salt was the culprit, but I think wheat, dairy, and lentils. These energy slumps happen to him all the time--except when he really sticks to the diet.

It is amazing to see how terrible his mood can be when he strays from the diet! He does not pay attention enough to notice the difference but I do. When he is on track, there are bad days, but he is usually more happy optimistic, and AWAKE! Do you have any suggestions for something he could be eating or taking every day (despite occasional cheating when he eats out) that will help his weight and energy level to even out? Or is it really just a matter of being 100% compliant? We are trying to eat at home more to avoid temptations. Is what he is eating at home a good diet or should he add more variety? (he stays away from red meat, but perhaps he should have it) Also, are type o's particularly salt-sensitive? One more thing, would rice milk be better than soy milk for him? (incase he's a non-sec) Thank you so much for your time! Jennie and David

Aw loosen up, Jennie -- Maybe it *was* just the salt! LOL!!

*sigh.* He sounds like me! If I still went to Indian restaurants, I'd probably be eating all my favorites and making lame excuses like that too, upon falling asleep an hour later. ;-D And cheese is a MIGHTY temptation! I could just sit and eat a pound of it, with a spoon. :-} To answer your question -- Heck no, we're the least salt-sensitive of all the types! :-D

The good news is the bad news... or at least that's how I expect he'll see it ... and here's what I mean. He responds beautifully to the diet, which means that's all he needs to do in terms of food. Fish is great, yes, but it's time to tippy-toe into that red meat jungle as well. Make him a little meat loaf with shredded vegetables as filler, and a little tomato sauce over it -- or a stir-fry with broccoli, onions, garlic & beef. Nice way to start. And if he forces himself to go out and exercise a couple of times per week, just "at his level," nothing over the top, his energy will soar and he will definitely start becoming aware of the difference.

The only supp I'd suggest is Deflect-O (in the Store here). It will help loads with those little slips like garlic nan, chapatis, aloo paratha, poori, daal, lassi, papadam, samosa, pakora.... need I go on? :-D Thanks so much for stopping in here, Jennie! I wish you two all the best ~~ I think he's very fortunate that you love him!! :-D




Posted in On The Diet

Notes for Rachel, Ann, Patti ~ babies, protocols, corn research & turkey soup!

January 2nd, 2001 , by admin







I am new to all this but have noticed an apparent contradiction in the Type O diet. O's must avoid ground black and white pepper, yet several of the recipes in BTD specify large amounts of black pepper-e.g 1.5 tsp in Kifta, 1 tsp in Baked Fish. Similarly, Vanilla Essence is listed as an AVOID, yet 1tsp is listed for Carob Chip Cookies& Maple Walnut Granola. Is there a listing for all errors, corrections or recent findings somewhere, please? Many thanks Sue



Hi, Sue! Welcome!! Os must indeed avoid commercial ground black pepper, as it is likely to have a high mold content. However, whole black peppercorns used in a pepper grinder are fine! A tiny bit of vanilla extract will not do much harm, but a nut extract such as almond, walnut or hazelnut is preferred for type O.



You have a keen eye for avoids in recipes, which is a definite advantage. We are advised to check ALL recipes, ALL ingredients of all products, no matter where we find them. Good work, Sue!! and do write again! :-D








Hi Heidi, I was enjoying one of my favorite treats when I read Patti's AB n/s lament re: limited sweets (5/1). So here's my recipe: Chocolate Velvet Pudding: 2 12oz pkgs of silken Tofu (I use one "firm" and one "soft"), 1/2c unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4c maple syrup (or veg. glycerin + maple extract), 1.5 TBS molasses, 1 TBS vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy. Spoon into dishes. Enjoy right away, or refrigerate for later. Just having a small 1/4c of this satisfies my need for a treat. (Actually, sometimes, I just get a spoonful from the fridge and continue on my way.) And it's from the bean category! Adjust sweeteners to personal preference. (I once ran out of maple syrup and used molasses only, it was great.) If we go to a friend's house for dinner, I bring my own dessert. Donna in CA



Donna, that sounds absolutely wonderful! ;-) Now if only I could figure out how to make tofu from black beans or pintos... *sigh!* Thanks for the offering, dear, and have a lovely!! :-D








Hi Heidi - I've done a search but didn't find it, so if this is a repeat question please forgive me! I am a B non-secretor. I have a 17 month old who is a type O. She was having trouble with ear infections, but when I took her off of all dairy and wheat, it really seems to have helped. My question is: should I assume she is a secretor and follow that diet for her? I didn't know if secretor status could possibly be hereditary? I ask this because I have been using spelt flour whenever baking, and I just realized that if she is a non-secretor, it would be an avoid for her. One more question while I have you! Is there an age limit for the protocols in the Encyclopedia? If her ear infections continue, I was looking at the immunity protocol, but I would be a little nervous about giving her herbs, etc. at such a young age. Thanks! Lisa



Hello, Lisa! Good question. Secretor status is hereditary, indeed. The only way we'd know which one she is right now is if we knew that her Dad is a nonsecretor. Then we'd be 99.99% certain that she is a nonsecretor, also. If you don't have that information, then the safest way to proceed is to avoid both the nonsecretor AND secretor avoids, and give her only the foods that are at least neutral for both.



For now, the diet should work just fine to keep her healthy, and I wouldn't start with herbals and supplements for her. There's no specific age limit for using the protocols, but since she's done well with simple dietary adjustments, that's the route I'd go. If she gets no wheat and no dairy, I think you'll find she'll have no further ear infections at all. Thanks for writing, Lisa, and I wish you and her the very best of health!! :-D








Since I read your column every day, I have a few questions: 1. If chocolate is a neutral, and sugar is neutral (except for non-secretors), why should we look for substitutes - such as the vegetable glycerin? 2. Does following the diet preclude a need for digestive enzymes (that the HFS suggested to me.) 3. Has Peter every done a study on the reason some people do well on certain types of diets? Such as - friends that do well on the Atkins diet or Sugar Busters Diet tend to be type O. Or a couple on the Carbohydrate Addicts diet - the wife (type O), did very well, the husband (type A) failed miserably? People who do well on Weight Watchers may tend to be type A? These are very isolated, broad assumptions on my part - just wondered if anyone else has noticed a trend? 4. Someone recently wrote about exercise for a protruding gut. There is a yoga pose I was taught recently. My instructor said that often our organs prolapse, and there is a "smile" underneath our belly button. The pose is to lay on the floor with leg flat on the floor, and that foot propped firmly against a door frame. Hold the other leg at a 90 degree angle with your hands behind your knees - head elevated. (Don't stretch the elevated leg - just raise it). Hold the pose for 60 seconds on each side. This should firm up these internal organs and put them back in place. I feel like I have this organ problem from too many years of being constipated from wheat and corn. It's an easy excercise and I hope to see some results. (Maybe someone else knows the name for this pose.) Amber



Hello, Amber! Thanks for the yoga suggestion!



Vegetable glycerine is not a necessity for O secretors. I suggest it to nonsecretors, for the most part. It's also extremely helpful with sugar cravings and weight loss. And digestive enzymes are recommended only if one has digestive difficulty with certain new foods.



:-D I don't know of an official study per se, but Os would naturally do better on a high-animal-protein diet than As would do -- and wouldn't thrive at all on a grain-heavy diet, whereas most type As and ABs could do better on it at least for a time. It just seems like common sense to me, having been with this plan for so long. The nice thing about it is, the BTD brings it all together for everyone... while addressing issues the other plans don't even take into account. ;-) thanks for writing in, dear! :-D








Heidi thank you again and again :) Some good things to report from this end and then one question. I now have confirmed that I am indeed an A+ blood type. So far I've lost 4# and some inches - for me that's good. I purchased the Cook Right book this weekend and look forward to using some recipes to spice things up for us. Speaking of food, perhaps one reason the weight was so slow is because I had been using WAY too much of the bread/grain/cereals. I had it in my mind that I could consume more than I should & being a carb. lover, this seemed like heaven. Alas, this week I'll eat the correct amounts. You have given out the receipe for the wonder working chicken soup/broth. Since my husband is a B and chicken is an avoid for him, does this have the same miracle properties if we use turkey? Bless you for your work and caring :) Sandy



AH! Thanks for reporting in, Sandy! It's great news that you've found an area of your diet to adjust, and that you're seeing steady results now! Congratulations, dear!! :-D



Yes, you can make the "miracle" broth from turkey instead -- and it's just as good! If I don't make broth right away, I save the bones of birds & beasts in a heavy plastic bag in the freezer. A mix will do just as well as one single type of bones, and the freezing process doesn't hurt anything at all. Enjoy, and keep writing, Sandy! :-D








Heidi, a reader asked if the Mayans used lime to make corn safer to eat. Corn contains niacin, but too much corn can cause a niacin (vitamin B-3)deficiency,

known as pellagra. Corn processed in a solution of lime (used to make certain kinds of tortillas) can help to increase niacin absorption. Niacin is necessary for healthy skin tissue, the nervous system, tongue health, the digestive system and blood circulation, low cholesterol levels and low blood pressure. Too much niacin from supplements can cause skin rashes, liver damage and peptic ulcers.



Lots of foods besides corn contain niacin, and of course, vitamin capsules contain B-3. Sounds like the Mayans understood the lime/corn/niacin connection, but didn't fully understand the other problems corn can cause. Kim



Quite true!! Thanks for that information, Kim -- you are very sweet to take time to post it here! much appreciated!! :-D








Hi Heidi, a suggestion for Ann who couldn't get the lamb from the shopping cart to the cash register--I have found that buying a whole leg of lamb and having the butcher cut it into 3/4 inch steaks and then grilling them or broiling them is an easy and tasty way to eat lamb, not to mention money saving. The extra steaks I freeze in a single layer on a baking pan till frozen, then pop them into a freezer container so I can have individual servings. The leg of lamb is less fatty and the flavor is better in my opinion. Also, I have found ground lamb which I make into burger sized patties. I brown them and then make a brown gravy (all O.K. ingredients) with mushrooms and onions, and a splash of red wine and they are delicious. My kids even like them. Suzanna



Hey there, Suzanna ~~ Your sage advice reminds me that when I first began the O diet, there was NO WAY I was going to face down a big bloody steak. I steeled myself and bought ground meat, and made stir-fries with lots of vegetables. It took a significant psychological adjustment just to face that meal ;-> so I do completely understand what people go through in this regard.



Folks, don't hesitate to get out there and find a responsive and responsible butcher. Sometimes they're hiding in plain sight. They might be sitting on a stool behind the door in the meat section of your supermarket, wondering if ANYONE will ever ring that tiny bell on the counter and ask them to do anything. They're lonely! Chat them up, get to know them! I say this because you'll learn a lot, and they'll be a great resource and a very good friend to your health and your budget. You don't have to just take what's sitting out in the "meat boat," you can get any cut of meat ground, deboned, filleted, tied, fixed any way you like it. Not to mention advice on how (and how long) to cook something, if you're not familiar with it. And don't forget special orders! :-D You never know when you might have a hankering for grilled sleeve-boned quail, or a crown roast for Christmas.



I spent at least a year going back to my old neighborhood butcher (1 1/2 hours round trip on the subway) because I hadn't bestirred myself to see what was right around the corner from me. Well, when I finally woke up, there he was, waiting for me: Bob, a genius and a love and a man who effortlessly produces whatever I want or need -- right around that corner. A thoroughly good fellow, by the way, and someone whom I now call my friend. He's even a classic car fan! HEY! You can't beat that! ~:-D



OK, enough gushing over my butcher. But be advised, a Bob (or Roberta)-the-butcher may be waiting for you ... and closer than you think. ;->



I have to say that I deeply, deeply appreciate your posting those ideas here for Ann, Suzanna, and this goes for everyone who reaches out to help with others' difficulties. Such a gracious gift~ It just makes me VERY happy, 'nuff said! :-D








Dear Heidi, Thanks for being a wonderful resource and support. Love your column! I am writing in response To Rachel. I am a 58 year old, O negative, secretor NN. When I gave up all grains and starches (I was only eating acceptable ones for the last three years but more than twice than the recommended servings per week) I went through a similar withdrawl to Rachel. On the fifth day it was extremely bad. I literally had the shakes, severe anxiety and terrible tiredness. I tested whether it was truly the grains by eating some rice and the symptoms immediately were gone. I continued without grains and starches over the next five weeks during which my lethargy and anxiety slowly diappeared. It was hard to think and to function. I used exercise and acupuncture to ease the symptoms. I am about to start the metabolism protocol so will let you how it goes. My acupuncturist later told me that the fifth day is often the worst in withdrawl. The results have been amazing. My life-long anxiety, compulsive eating, and the dark circles around my eyes disappeared. I lost bloat and weight which have been most apparent in my shoe size and my face. People tell me I look much younger, "brighter," and healthier. I have also lost a recent tendency to incontinence. Rachel, you can do it. It's worth it!!! Karen



WHOO-HOO!!! Karen, that's a MARVELOUS report, and I thank you SO MUCH for sharing it with all of us!



It's very useful advice you're offering to Rachel, as there are many of us who experience these kinds of withdrawal symptoms and feel utterly confused as to what may be causing them. Sometimes the only way to the sunshine is through the darkness. I've found that the worse the withdrawal symptoms are, the more vital it is to eliminate the food(s) one is trying to eliminate. Just get through it however you can, so that you don't have to face that process ever again!



Karen, I look forward to hearing how the metabolism protocols work for you -- Congratulations on your learning, and your progress! Do keep in touch, and thanks again!! ~:-D










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