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Indigenous Tailoured Resources

Culturally appropriate diabetes care and prevention strategies for Indigenous communities

Indigenous populations, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, have diabetes rates several times higher than the general population, influenced by socio-economic and historical factors. Efforts to integrate traditional diets and activities, alongside community-based care models, have been effective in prevention and management strategies.

Canada

Diabetes Canada Indigenous Health

The Diabetes Canada Clinical Practice Guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations for managing diabetes in Indigenous communities. Chapter 38 specifically addresses the unique health considerations for these populations, 

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National Indigenous Diabetes Association

NADA, based in Manitoba, works to address the unique challenges Indigenous communities face regarding diabetes prevention, education, and care. Their efforts include advocating for culturally relevant resources and providing support for Indigenous health initiatives.

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The Indigenous Diabetes Health Circle

IDHC, based in Ontario, supports Indigenous people living with or at risk for diabetes, offering resources tailored to cultural practices, healthcare, and wellness. Their programs focus on prevention, education, and improving health outcomes.

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Government of Canada Aboriginal Diabetes Initiative

 The Government of Canada's Diabetes Initiative for Indigenous Peoples focuses on supporting Indigenous communities in addressing the rising prevalence of diabetes.

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The National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health

NCCIH, based in Prince George, BC, aims to improve the health and well-being of Indigenous communities across Canada by providing research, resources, and collaborative initiatives.

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Métis Community Service Society of BC

The Métis Community Services Society offers a wide range of programs and supports tailored to the Métis population, focusing on family services, cultural education, and community wellness.

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Volunteer -
Support Network for Indigenous Women

The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Color (SNIWWOC) offers various programs, including community outreach, career planning, and traditional medicine.

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Volunteer - Indigenous Professionals 
Assoc. of Canada

IPAC is seeking passionate volunteers for various committees, such as Communications, Events, and Programming, offering opportunities to build skills, network, and engage.

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Reconciliation Canada
 

Reconciliation Canada invites individuals, organizations, and businesses to engage in fostering stronger relationships between Indigenous peoples and all Canadians.

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Diabetes Prevalence in First Nations Report
 

This report, The Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Among First Nations and Considerations for Prevention by Regine Halseth, provides a comprehensive overview of the high rates of Type 2 diabetes among First Nations communities in Canada.

Diabetes Prevalence in First Nations Report
 

This report, The Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Among First Nations and Considerations for Prevention by Regine Halseth, provides a comprehensive overview of the high rates of Type 2 diabetes among First Nations communities in Canada.

Indigenous Harm Reduction Principles and Practices 

The FNHA’s Indigenous Harm Reduction Principles and Practices fact sheet provides culturally relevant harm reduction strategies for Indigenous communities. It advocates for a holistic, community-centered approach that aligns with Indigenous values and supports wellness. The fact sheet serves as a guide for healthcare providers to address substance use in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner.

First Nations Perspectives on Health and Wellness Model

The First Nations Health Authority's perspective on health and wellness emphasizes a holistic approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It highlights the importance of traditional knowledge and practices in maintaining health and fostering community resilience. The FNHA encourages cultural humility and self-determination in health services to empower First Nations people in achieving optimal wellness.

Department of Indigenous Services Canada Committment

The Department of Indigenous Services Canada outlines their commitment to supporting First Nations communities in addressing diabetes through health services, programs, and initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of culturally relevant care and providing resources that empower Indigenous peoples in managing diabetes effectively. The initiative focuses on collaboration with community partners to improve overall health outcomes and reduce the impact of diabetes on Indigenous communities.

Diabetes and My Nation Videos
 

Join Chief Bob Joseph as he shares powerful insights on Indigenous health and the journey toward healing, resilience, and community well-being.

Voices from the Field Podcast
 

Voices from the Field, a podcast by the National Collaboration Centre for Indigenous Health (NCCIH), highlights innovative research and community initiatives advancing the health and well-being of First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada.

First Nations Health Authority - Living with Diabetes

The FNHA’s Diabetes page provides resources and support for managing diabetes within Indigenous communities. It emphasizes the importance of culturally relevant care, prevention strategies, and community involvement in improving health outcomes. The page offers valuable information on diabetes education, lifestyle changes, and the role of the FNHA in supporting individuals living with diabetes.

First Nations Health Authority - Let's Talk about Diabetes

The FNHA's article focuses on promoting wellness and healthy living with diabetes in First Nations communities. It encourages open discussions about diabetes management, the importance of self-care, and community support. The article also highlights initiatives and resources available to assist individuals in managing their health. The goal is to empower people living with diabetes to live well and embrace a balanced lifestyle.

The Four Pillars of Managing Diabetes
 

The FNHA's Four Pillars of Diabetes Management guide outlines key areas for managing diabetes: healthy eating, physical activity, monitoring blood glucose levels, and maintaining emotional wellness. These pillars provide a holistic approach to diabetes care, focusing on both the physical and mental well-being of individuals. The resource emphasizes the importance of integrating these elements into everyday life for improved diabetes management.

Five Principles of Trauma Informed Care
 

The Canadian Medical Association’s guide on trauma-informed care emphasizes the importance of understanding the five key principles: safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. It highlights how these principles help improve care for all patients, especially those affected by trauma, by addressing cultural, historical, and gender-related factors. The article offers a framework for healthcare providers to offer more sensitive and effective care.

How the Canadian Food Guide was Informed by Indigenous History

The 2023 Canadian Food Guide includes Indigenous perspectives on food, emphasizing traditional and culturally significant foods. It encourages the use of locally sourced and sustainable food, aligning with Indigenous practices that prioritize community health and well-being. The guide integrates the values of land stewardship and the importance of food sovereignty for Indigenous peoples.

First Nations Health Authority Common Language Report

The First Nations Health Authority's Common Language Report (2023) emphasizes the importance of clear and accessible language in health communications for Indigenous communities. The report outlines efforts to develop a shared, culturally appropriate terminology that promotes better understanding and engagement in health care. It aims to improve health literacy and foster more inclusive, effective interactions between healthcare providers and First Nations peoples.

Why Food Security in Indigenous Communities is so  Important

Food insecurity is a major public health issue for Indigenous communities in Canada, impacting their overall health and well-being. Indigenous peoples face higher rates of food insecurity compared to the broader Canadian population due to various factors, including geographic isolation, limited access to traditional foods, and socio-economic challenges. Addressing food insecurity within these communities requires a holistic approach that includes support for food sovereignty, local food systems, and culturally appropriate resources.

Dietary Patterns of Off-reserve Indigenous Peoples and Chronic Disease

A study analyzing dietary patterns in Canada's off-reserve Indigenous population found that the majority of adults and children followed "Unhealthy" dietary patterns, which were associated with lower diet quality and contributed to high obesity and chronic disease rates. Factors like income, smoking, and physical inactivity were identified as significant influences on dietary intake. The research highlighted shifts in diet patterns between 2004 and 2015, with some improvements in certain groups but continued concerns regarding overall diet quality.

Indigenous Inter Cultural Online Health Network
 

The Indigenous ICON Project offers a range of resources aimed at supporting Indigenous communities through culturally relevant health information and tools. It focuses on promoting mental health, wellness, and the integration of Indigenous perspectives into health care and social services. The platform provides access to educational materials, programs, and community initiatives designed to support both personal and collective healing.

First Nations Acute Care Discussion  Guide

A Coming Together of Health Systems: First Nations Traditional Practitioners in Acute Care Settings Discussion Guide

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Diabetes and My Nation Prevention & Management

The Community-Based Diabetes Prevention and Management Program, called Diabetes and My Nation, offers culturally relevant resources and strategies for preventing and managing diabetes within Indigenous communities.

First Nations and Inuit  Health Regional Offices

The First Nations and Inuit Health Regional Offices support First Nations and Inuit communities across the country by delivering culturally tailored health services, programs, and partnerships.

First Nations Health Authority

The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is the first Indigenous-led health organization in Canada, dedicated to improving the health and wellness of First Nations individuals and communities in British Columbia through culturally safe and community-driven approaches.

Health Quality British Columbia (HQBC)

The Health Quality BC emphasizes the importance of Indigenous self-determination and equity in addressing diabetes care. It highlights the need for culturally safe practices, community-driven solutions, and empowering Indigenous peoples to take control of their healthcare. The article calls for a collaborative approach that incorporates Indigenous knowledge, values, and perspectives in designing diabetes care strategies.

Fraser Health Indigenous Health Program

The Fraser Health Indigenous Health Program provides culturally safe, holistic healthcare services tailored for Indigenous communities within the Fraser Health region in British Columbia.

Interior Health Indigenous Program

Interior Health collaborates with Indigenous communities to deliver health services that respect traditional practices and support the well-being of Indigenous peoples.

Island Health Indigenous Program

Island Health’s Indigenous Health program works to enhance Indigenous health through culturally relevant care, partnerships, and services tailored to the needs of Indigenous populations in the region.

Northern Health Indigenous Program

Northern Health provides health services with a focus on Indigenous health initiatives, working closely with communities to offer care that integrates cultural values and traditions.

Vancouver Coastal Health Indigenous Program

Vancouver Coastal Health’s Indigenous Health services support the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness of Indigenous peoples, emphasizing respect and cultural sensitivity.

Provincial Health Indigenous Program

The Provincial Health Services Authority coordinates Indigenous health programs across BC, aiming to improve access to care and address health disparities within Indigenous population

Healthy Eating Resources

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Canadian Food Focus Indigenous Recipes

Celebrating Indigenous Ingredients and Recipes on Canadian Food Focus highlights the richness of traditional Indigenous foods and cooking practices across Canada. This resource explores Indigenous culinary heritage, offering insights and recipes that honor traditional ingredients like wild game, berries, and bannock.

Canada Food Guide for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis

The Canada Food Guide for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis offers culturally relevant nutrition guidance tailored to the unique dietary practices and food traditions of these Indigenous communities. It provides practical advice to support healthy eating while honoring traditional foods and practices.

Flavour Network Canadian First Nations Recipes

This Network offers a variety of traditional and modern recipes inspired by First Nations culinary practices across Canada. It explores the use of local, seasonal ingredients that are central to Indigenous diets, emphasizing sustainability and the rich history of these foods.

Dietitians of Canada Indigenous Recipes

This collection provides a series of nutritious, Indigenous-inspired recipes that integrate traditional ingredients with modern cooking techniques. It was curated by the Aboriginal Nutrition Network to promote health and wellness through the use of nutrient-dense, culturally relevant foods.

Native Women's Association of Canada

Diabetes, Traditional Foods, and Recipes (NWAC): This document by the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC) highlights the important role of traditional foods in managing diabetes in Indigenous communities.

Healthy Recipes from the Canadian Dietitians Society

You can help your patients prevent and effectively manage diabetes with healthy food choices and the support of the Dieticians of Canada.

Healthy Recipes from the BC Dietitians Association

Join the British Columbia Dietitians in preventing diabetes via healthy eating. Here they present tasty and healthy recipes to help you better manage your health.

Diabetes Canada Recipes
 

Explore a variety of healthy, diabetes-friendly recipes designed to support balanced nutrition and improve overall health. Diabetes Canada's collection offers meal ideas for various occasions and dietary preferences, all aimed at helping manage diabetes through the power of nutrition.

Indigenous Original Food Guide

The National Indigenous Diabetes Association (NIDA) offers the "Gifts from Our Relations" booklet, showcasing 18 traditional Indigenous foods to promote healthy eating and lifestyle by highlighting their nutritional benefits and cultural significance.

The Glycemic Index Food Guide

The glycemic index (GI) ranks carbohydrate-containing foods and drinks based on how much they raise blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a high GI cause a quicker and higher spike in blood sugar compared to those with a low GI.

Glycemic Index versus Glycemic Load

Harvard Health explains the concepts of glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL), which are measurements used to assess how foods affect blood sugar levels. GI ranks foods based on how quickly they raise blood sugar, while GL accounts for both the quality and quantity of carbohydrates in food.

Health Centers & Programs

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Métis Nation British Columbia

The Métis Health Experience Program focuses on understanding and addressing health challenges within Métis communities by providing targeted healthcare resources and culturally informed health initiatives.

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Rural Coordination Centre of BC

The Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc) focuses on enhancing healthcare access and services for rural and Indigenous communities in British Columbia.

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Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada

The Indigenous Peoples Atlas of Canada provides a comprehensive exploration of healthcare and medical travel routes historically used by Indigenous communities across Canada.

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