This article concludes that mainstream nutrition approaches inadequately capture the full meaning of nourishment for Indigenous peoples, as they neglect critical spiritual, emotional, and relational aspects. By centering Indigenous worldviews and lived experiences, the Indigenous Nourishment Model offers a more comprehensive and culturally appropriate framework. This model not only challenges deficit-based narratives and epistemic injustices but also provides practical guidance for developing, implementing, and evaluating nutrition initiatives that honor and leverage the strengths of Indigenous foodways and knowledge systems. Ultimately, such holistic approaches can foster greater health equity and well-being for AI/AN/NH communities and beyond.
Future Food Systems:Exploring Global Production, Processing, Distribution and Consumption, 2024, Pages 177-190
The article concludes that while federal food assistance programs have the potential to improve health equity for Indigenous peoples, their effectiveness is hampered by accessibility barriers and lack of cultural relevance, particularly in non-tribally administered programs. The scant research available highlights unmet needs, especially for urban Indigenous communities and under-studied programs. Addressing these gaps is essential for fulfilling federal trust responsibilities and advancing health equity. The authors call for more targeted research and policy action to support Indigenous self-determination and ensure food assistance programs are both accessible and culturally appropriate.
