Could caribou and elder wisdom lift depression? new trial explores inuit food as medicine

NCT ID NCT07014852

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study in Arviat, Nunavut, is testing whether eating more traditional country foods like caribou and fish, along with participating in Elder-led cultural workshops, can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in Inuit adults. Forty participants will receive weekly food distributions and attend workshops over 12 weeks. The goal is to see if this culturally rooted approach is acceptable and whether it improves emotional well-being.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Traditional country foods (caribou, fish) and cultural workshops led by Elders

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a culturally grounded way to ease depression and anxiety in Inuit communities.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small trial (40 people) testing feasibility and cultural fit, not yet designed to prove mental health benefits. Results may not apply beyond this community.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety disorder Depression Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Aqqiumavvik - Arviat Wellness Society

    NOT_YET_RECRUITING

    Arviat, Nunavut, X0C0E0, Canada

  • Aqqiumavvik Society

    RECRUITING

    Arviat, Nunavut, X0C 0E0, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact