An intensive traditional foods program aimed at curbing diabetes is credited with major weight loss and health benefits for some of its participants. Native Food for Life is a collaboration between tribal health officials and the Physicians Committee on Responsible Medicine. Native America Calling had an inadvertent role in the program’s inception on the Navajo Nation almost two decades ago. It has since expanded beyond the Southwest.

Did pemmican bread pudding sway the judges who awarded Diné chef Justin Pioche champion of the “Indigenous Inspiration” episode of the Food Network’s “Chopped” cooking competition? Pioche is busy back to work at his Fruitland, N.M.-based Pioche Food Group business, but is taking time out to reach out to his fans, both new and old, after his high-profile success.

GUESTS

Justin Pioche (Diné), chef and owner of Pioche Food Group and James Beard Award Best Chef semi-finalist

Jenson Yazzie (Diné), photographer

Dr. Josie Howard (Cherokee), psychiatrist

Dr. Neal Barnard, adjunct professor of medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. and president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine