Final answer:
Native populations in North America had developed knowledge about the health benefits of certain plants and foods, contributing to better health. They selectively bred plants and practiced sustainable farming methods such as the 'Three Sisters' cropping system. Traditional healthy dishes, like Navajo mutton stew and blue corn, were also part of their diet.
Step-by-step explanation:
By the time Europeans arrived in the Americas, Indigenous peoples of North and Central America had developed a detailed understanding of the health benefits and risks associated with certain plants. They selectively bred domesticated plants, such as the 'Three Sisters' cropping system, which allowed specific plants to be grown together sustainably. Additionally, Native Americans had traditional foods like Navajo mutton stew, blue corn, and dry bread, which were considered healthy dishes.