Pathways between foodways and wellbeing for first nations Australians

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Health
• Sociology of Food
• Qualitative Research Methodology

Background:

• Supporting First Nations peoples' health and wellbeing is a national priority in Australia.
• Colonisation has impacted First Nations peoples' land, language, and governance, yet strong connections to traditional food culture persist.
• Foodways, encompassing traditional and evolving food practices, are recognized for supporting holistic health and wellbeing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the specific pathways through which foodways contribute to the wellbeing of First Nations peoples.
• To provide evidence for health and nutrition programs to better support First Nations peoples.

Main Methods:

• Secondary analysis of two national qualitative datasets on wellbeing.
• Inclusion of data from 531 First Nations peoples (aged 12-92).
• Thematic analysis guided by an Indigenist research methodology.

Main Results:

• Five key pathways were identified: social connection through food, access to traditional foods, joy in food preparation and sharing, knowledge exchange on food and nutrition, and food security strategies.
• These pathways highlight the multifaceted role of foodways in supporting wellbeing.

Conclusions:

• Foodways offer significant, yet underexplored, pathways to enhance the health and wellbeing of First Nations peoples.
• Findings can inform culturally relevant health and nutrition programs and services.
• Harnessing First Nations peoples' strengths and preferences in foodways is crucial for effective wellbeing support.