28. Food Security & the Gut Microbiome I: Colonization & Diet in Indigenous Communities in BC

Welcome back to Just Medicine!

This week, we begin a podcast series that explores the intersections of diet, food security, and the gut microbiome, especially for Indigenous folks.

In this four part series, Kennedy Graham (UBC MSI 1) speaks to experts to call attention to how colonialism has impacted diet in many Indigenous communities; explore diet’s role in creating and influencing the gut microbiome; highlight existing advocacy projects and approaches that address issues created by colonial practices; and share actionable steps for listeners, towards health equity and cultural preservation in the context of food and land systems for Indigenous communities. 

In this first episode, we are honoured to be joined by Jessie Newman, an Indigenous Health Dietician doing both systems and community work on Vancouver Island. We discuss her journey to becoming an Indigenous Health Dietician, as well as systemic and historical causes of food insecurity among Indigenous populations. We address barriers to food sovereignty such as geographic isolation, colonial policy that disrupts intergenerational knowledge transfer on land and food practices, and lack of access to traditional foods. Jessie also speaks to two projects she created, related to diabetes support and knowledge sharing.