The Gila River Indian Community of Arizona is tackling rising rates of diabetes and obesity among its youth.

The tribe is introducing young Natives to the agricultural tradition of their ancestors. At two school gardens, students learn how to cultivate native crops and other foods, and learn of the value of a healthy diet.

The effort has already paid off for some. Denise Fohrenkam, a teacher's aide and diabetes sufferer, has lost 60 pounds since she began working in her school's garden and changed her diet. Her five sons, two of whom are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, are losing weight, she said.

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Cultivating health (The Arizona Republic 1/28)