Genotype Diet

The Genotype Diet is an expansion on the concept of the Blood Type Diet which was created by naturopathic physician Dr. Peter D’Adamo.

Dr. D’Adamo classifies people into six distinct genetic body types based on how certain genes and physical characteristics are known to occur in combination. He claims that customizing the diet and lifestyle to suit each genotype is the key to achieving weight loss and optimal health.

Although we can’t change our genes, we can influence the environmental aspects such as nutrition, exercise and how we respond to stress, which will in turn affect the way that the genes are expressed; either supporting health or contributing to illness.

The Genotype Diet Basics

The book includes a comprehensive test including questions about blood type, fingerprint patterns, physical measurements, family history, and other health parameters, which enables you to determine to which of the six genotypes you belong which include:

• Hunter
  Tall and athletic, with a square jaw. Prone to inflammatory diseases such as allergies and rheumatoid arthritis. Blood type O.
• Gatherer
  Emotional temperament and usually have a high BMI. Often have a history of crash dieting and have problems with appetite regulation. Blood type O or B.
• Teacher
  Naturally flexible and enthusiastic nature. Susceptible to bacterial infections. Blood type A and sometimes AB.
• Explorer
  Muscular, adventurous and intelligent. Sensitive to caffeine and medications. Any blood type but often Rh-negative.
• Warrior
  Charismatic and highly strung. Often age prematurely. Blood type A or AB.
• Nomad
  Very tall or short. Quiet, optimistic and rational nature. Often have sensitive digestive systems. Blood type B or AB.

Recommended Foods

The specific foods recommended vary depending on which genotype you belong to. Each genotype has a list of foods that are beneficial for that specific type.

General dietary structures and composition of protein, carbohydrates and fats will also vary for each type. For example a ‘hunter’ will thrive on a diet that contains generous servings of red meat whereas a ‘gatherer’ will do better on a predominantly vegetarian diet.

The health benefits of specific foods for each genotype are highlighted and D’Adamo explains the reasoning behind the tailored approach to address particular aspects of health for each type.

The online site provides recipes for each genotype. Examples of recipes for each type include:

• Hunter – Grilled Steak With Red Onion and Peas
• Gatherer – Asian Stir Fry
• Teacher – Turkey Parmesan With Arugula
• Explorer – Pasta With Turkey, Carrots and Cilantro Pesto
• Warrior – Pan Seared Tuna
• Nomad – Honey Barbecue Burgers

Look for healthy meal ideas here.

Exercise Recommendations

As with diet suggestions, exercise recommendations are specific to each type. ‘Nomads’ are advised to engage in gentle exercise such as yoga to help to reduce stress and balance their sensitive constitutions. The naturally athletic ‘explorer’ types should perform more strenuous activities that help them to break a sweat.

Costs and Expenses

The Genotype Diet book is available for $24.95.

Available from Amazon →

Pros

• Customized program to suit specific health issues and body tendencies.
• Supported by a large number of scientific studies.
• Provides exercise and lifestyle advice in additional to diet recommendations.

Cons

• Necessary to sign up for the online program to access recipes. The book provides food lists only.
• Meal preparation may be difficult when members of a family are different genotypes.

Conclusions

The Genotype Diet is supported by scientific research though it appears that many of the changes that are observed in regard to health and weight regulation may be due to general diet and lifestyle improvements.

Nonetheless if you like experimenting with different ideas and learning about the science of nutrition and health this program may provide you with new inspiration to make some beneficial adjustments to your current diet and lifestyle.