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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
04:48
Control of Eating Behavior Using a Novel Feedback System
Published on: May 8, 2018
Cultural Food Practices and Their Potential Role in Mitigating Disordered Eating Among American Indian/First Nations
Tara L Maudrie1, Stefanie Gillson2, Olivia Anderson3
1University of Michigan, School of Social Work, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Department of Health Behavior & Health Equity, University of Michigan, School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Summary
Engaging in cultural food practices was linked to healthier body image among American Indian/First Nations adolescents. This suggests cultural foods may protect against disordered eating behaviors in youth.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Nutrition Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Disordered eating is a significant concern among adolescents.
- Cultural food practices may influence eating behaviors and mental well-being.
- American Indian/First Nations (AI/FN) youth face unique health challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between disordered eating and cultural food practices in AI/FN adolescents.
- To identify specific disordered eating constructs relevant to this population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the longitudinal Healing Pathways study (N = 661) with Midwest AI/FN communities.
- Employed interviewer-administered surveys assessing disordered eating and cultural food practices.
- Used exploratory factor analysis to define disordered eating constructs: binge eating, obsessive food behaviors, and altered feelings about body.
Main Results:
- Greater engagement in cultural food practices correlated with lower levels of "altered feelings about body."
- Female AI/FN adolescents reported higher levels of "obsessive food behaviors" and "altered feelings about body."
- Statistical models adjusted for sociodemographic variables.
Conclusions:
- Cultural food practices may promote healthy eating behaviors in AI/FN youth.
- Further research should investigate the protective role of cultural food practices against disordered eating.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
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