VIDBE-Q 2025 Volume 70 Issue 4
extended family concept. The adult members of the family may speak Navajo to
the student athlete. Many families on the reservation do not take vacations or have
money to visit nearby local attractions. Camp is a great opportunity for student
athletes to have new experiences relatively close to their own home.
Historically, the Navajo were hunters and gatherers but after placement on
the reservation their diet became high in fat, sugar and salt due to the
inaccessibility of traditional foods. Adoption of foods from mainstream America,
including fast food and ready-made foods, has led to adverse health effects (Diné
Policy Institute, 2014). Consequently, Navajo people have struggled with diabetes
and obesity (Thompson et al, 2001). Currently, there are multiple programs
teaching the community how to garden (Ornelas, 2017), strengthen regional food
systems and reduce diet-related health disparities in the Navajo Nation (USDA,
2019). To help combat obesity and diabetes, the Navajo Nation has a tax on "junk
foods" (Preventing Chronic Disease, 2020). This information is important for staff
to be understanding and accepting, as some student athletes may be overweight.
CAFC also makes every effort to include healthy food during Camp. The Cameron
Trading Post provides all meals, with staff and athletes choosing from their varied
menu, and sack lunches are also provided for everyone. During lunchtime, veggie
and fruit trays are also provided and healthy snacks are available throughout the
day. Each student athlete receives an Osprey hydration backpack for their use
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