Document Type
Paper
Publication Date
8-2025
Abstract
Indigenous gut health is a critical but often overlooked determinant of overall well-being. Gut health encompasses digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and the balance of the microbiome. Indigenous communities face unique challenges related to geography, food access, and the legacy of colonization, all of which affect dietary diversity and microbiome health. Drawing from the Health Belief Model, this project proposes a culturally responsive, education-based intervention to increase awareness of fiber-rich diets and their role in preventing chronic disease. The intervention aims to address upstream factors such as food access and health literacy, particularly among Indigenous families. Traditional diets once supported diverse gut microbiota, but colonization and the adoption of processed foods have led to gut dysbiosis and related health conditions. The project’s goal is to improve long-term health outcomes by promoting dietary education, restoring traditional food practices, and empowering communities to make sustainable, informed nutritional choices.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Tasha Viver Morin. "Indigenous Gut Health" (2025). Indigenous Health Student Publications. 1.
https://commons.und.edu/ih-stu/1