Blood is a specialized body fluid of water in significant proportion and solid components in minor quantity. Its primary function is transporting nutrients and oxygen to various body parts and protecting the individual against infections. There are four main blood types according to the ABO system. This grouping is based on the presence or absence of specific antigens and antibodies. Let’s explore more about the different blood groups and their characteristics.

Blood groups
Blood grouping is done according to the ABO and Rh systems. A blood type chart will help demonstrate and easily understand the eight blood groups, which are classified based on the existence or non-existence of two antigens, A and B, on the membrane of red blood cells. Along with these, a protein called Rh factor can also be present or absent. These together form 8 blood groups which are A+, A-, B+, B-, O+, O-, AB+, and AB-. A person’s blood group is determined by the genes inherited from the parents. O is the most common blood type, while AB- is rare.

Compatibility of blood types
The blood group chart also demonstrates the compatibility of blood groups. This also gives information on the blood type that should be given to a patient during a blood transfusion.

• AB blood group – In this type, the RBCs have both A and B antigens on their surface, and the plasma doesn’t contain any antibodies against these antigens. Individuals with the AB group can receive blood from any blood type but cannot donate to other groups.
• A group – Blood group A has A antigen on the RBCs surface and antibodies against B antigen in the plasma. Individuals with A blood type can receive blood only from persons of the A or O group and donate to individuals with A or AB type.
• B group – Blood group B has B antigen on the RBCs surface and antibodies against A antigen in the plasma. Individuals with B blood type can receive blood only from persons of the B or O group and donate to individuals with B or AB type.
• O group – In this type, the RBCs do not contain any antigens, and the plasma has antibodies against A and B antigens. O group is known as a universal donor, and they can donate blood to individuals of any blood type. In addition, they can receive blood only from the O group.

Determining the blood group
To identify the blood type, blood group test kits are available that one can use without the help of a medical practitioner. It comprises a lancet to prick the finger, plastic applicator sticks to collect the blood sample, and a testing card on which the result can be read. Furthermore, a person can also go for a blood test at a laboratory to determine the blood type. The lab technician will extract blood from the arm and mix the plasma with three distinct substances: Antibody A, Antibody B, or Rh factor, and then they will see the results. It will provide a different set of reactions in each case. This is used to identify the blood type of a person. These tests benefit people who indulge in regular blood donation or blood transfusion.

Blood type and personality – A myth?
There are several beliefs about the kind of personality each person with a particular blood type possesses. For example, people having blood type B are considered to have a creative bent of mind and are also known to be passionate. Similarly, those with blood group A are considered more responsible and organized. AB blood group people are thought to be analytical, rational, and caring. Furthermore, individuals with blood group O are considered adventurous and confident souls, but none of these theories bear scientific backing and are just assumptions.

Specific meal plans for each blood group
We can see meal recommendations for each blood group all over the internet. The blood group type meal plan is a concept developed by naturopathic doctor Peter D’Adamo in 1996. Even since its introduction, the idea didn’t get any support from the research community. Despite having no scientific backing, it continues to be followed by many, and some are even propagating the blood-type meal plan. Of late, researchers have proven that blood group type doesn’t matter regarding what a person eats. There is no specific food restriction or preference based on blood group. Therefore, selecting a plan that fits your lifestyle is the key to staying healthy. So the blood-type meal plan is just a trend.