Strength, wisdom, and good health are American Indian birthrights. Our elders taught us many healthy ways that were practiced for many generations. Over time, some healthy traditions have been traded for unhealthy ways that increase the chances of getting some diseases. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for American Indians and Alaska Natives today. We can do something to prevent heart disease.
Healthy eating is one way to keep a healthy heart.
Native foods and traditional ways can help us stay healthy. Native foods can still be found in many places today. Grow traditional plants such as beans, corn, chile, pumpkin, squash, and melons. Choose berries, nuts, plants, fish, caribou, deer, rabbit, duck, and other native foods more often. Use traditional ways of preparing food like drying, baking, stewing, and boiling.