What if something as fundamental as your blood type held clues not only to your health—but also to your lifespan? A fascinating study out of Japan is reigniting interest in the link between genetics and longevity.

A Surprising Link Between Blood Type and Longevity

In Tokyo, researchers studied 269 individuals aged 100 and above, comparing their blood types with over 7,000 people from the general population.

Their discovery? Blood type B appeared far more frequently among the centenarians. This suggests a potential correlation between type B blood and increased lifespan.

Another study involving more than 5,000 participants looked at the biological age of 11 internal organs. The findings revealed that people with blood type B showed slower signs of aging, likely thanks to better cellular repair mechanisms and greater resistance to metabolic stress—two key factors in the aging process.

What Makes Blood Type B Stand Out?

Type B blood features the B antigen and anti-A antibodies. This specific immune configuration may help promote stronger cell regeneration and offer enhanced protection against oxidative stress, a key driver of aging.

Some experts also believe individuals with blood type B are better equipped to handle metabolic strain. This could potentially lower their risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes or cognitive decline as they age.

But It’s Not All Positive

Despite these advantages, blood type B may come with a few downsides. Some studies link it to a slightly elevated risk of cardiovascular disease. As a result, health professionals advise those with this blood type to maintain heart-friendly routines—such as eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress effectively.

Blood Type’s Role in Broader Health Outcomes

Beyond longevity, your blood type may shape how your body responds to illness. Blood groups—A, B, AB, and O—are determined by inherited genes and defined by antigens on the surface of red blood cells. These antigens play an essential role in immune system behavior.

• Pancreatic Cancer: Individuals with A, B, or AB blood may face a higher risk, possibly due to how their antigens interact with Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria linked to cancer development.
• Cardiovascular Health and ED: Those with non-O blood types often have higher levels of von Willebrand factor, a clotting protein that thickens blood. This can raise the chances of heart attacks, strokes, and even erectile dysfunction in men.
• Infections: Type O blood offers more protection against malaria but might leave individuals more susceptible to strep infections, as its unique sugar structures make it easier for bacteria to attach.

Can You Personalize Your Diet Based on Blood Type?

The idea of eating according to your blood type gained popularity with Dr. Peter D’Adamo’s Eat Right 4 Your Type. The theory suggests different blood types evolved with specific ancestral diets in mind.

• Type A (“The Cultivator”): Recommended to follow a largely vegetarian, organic, and whole food diet.
• Type B (“The Nomad”): Can enjoy a wide variety of foods, including most meats and dairy, but should limit corn, wheat, and tomatoes.
• Type AB (“The Enigma”): A blend of A and B dietary needs, focusing on seafood, tofu, and leafy greens while cutting back on red meat and caffeine.
• Type O (“The Hunter”): Best suited to a high-protein, paleo-style diet rich in meat and vegetables, while avoiding dairy and grains.

While research into blood type and longevity is still evolving, these insights offer an intriguing glimpse into how our genetics may shape not just how we live—but how long.