Lesson 3: The Health Benefits of Traditional Diets
- Introduction: Traditional Indigenous diets are rich in nutrients and have been linked to better health outcomes, particularly in preventing and managing diabetes. By focusing on natural, unprocessed foods, these diets offer a sustainable way to improve health.
- Deep Dive:
- Nutritional Benefits of Traditional Diets: Explore the nutritional profile of traditional Indigenous diets, including high levels of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and low levels of processed sugars and fats.
- Impact on Diabetes Management: Discuss how traditional diets can help manage blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health in people with diabetes.
- Comparison with Modern Diets: Compare traditional diets with modern, processed diets, highlighting the differences in nutritional quality and health outcomes.
- Activity: Prepare a meal plan using traditional foods that support diabetes management. Consider how to balance macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) in each meal.
- Discussion Questions:
- How does the nutritional profile of traditional Indigenous diets compare to that of modern processed diets?
- In what ways can traditional diets help prevent or manage diabetes?
- What are some common barriers to adopting a traditional diet, and how can they be addressed?
- How can healthcare providers encourage the adoption of traditional diets among Indigenous patients with diabetes?
- What role can community programs play in promoting traditional diets for better health outcomes?