Cultural Interpretations of Dietary Practices in the Quran and Bible: A Comparative Analysis of Middle Eastern (Dubai) and Central Asian (Kazakhstan) Contexts

Abstract

Background. Achieving a well-rounded diet is possible for people of all backgrounds, regardless of how they interpret or follow their respective religious writing’s instructions. This research seeks to study how the way in which scriptural guidance pertaining to food has been influenced by the culture and environment where the people reside. More specifically, the researcher will examine how culturally constructed interpretations of scripture had an impact on the way people in two very different environmental contexts (Dubai, Middle East versus Kazakhstan, Central Asia) approach food and, in turn, what their respective health outcomes are as a result of following those interpretations. Methods. A comparative, mixed-methods approach generates data via secondary analysis that examines scriptural texts (The Quran and The Bible) in order to define the “Scriptural Ideal,” and employs peer-reviewed literature, global health reports, and demographics to quantify dietary patterns and public health outcomes. The Culture - Environment - Health Triad Framework assists in exploring the influence that environmental conditions have on translating religious dietary prescriptions into action. Results. Results of this analysis show that there is a significant gap between the scriptural dietary prescriptions and the actual consumption patterns of both regions. Rapid modernization, urbanization, and high-income have produced a nutrition transition in Dubai with increased consumption of fast food products, processed foods, and physical inactivity. On the other hand, Kazakhstan has experienced a “Steppe Dilemma” where historical reliance on meat and animal fat due to the cold climate continue to dictate dietary behaviours despite living in a modern sedentary environment. Regardless of the differences in drivers of obesity, both regions display high rates of obesity and deviations from plant-based dietary models. Conclusion. The results indicate that environmental and structural influences override religious-based dietary guidelines as major influences on individual dietary behaviours. To make strides in combating public health issues such as obesity, there must be support for culturally-based dietary principles through structural strategies to address access to healthy foods and promote healthy lifestyle choices. The information derived from this research can aid in developing effective public health strategies that are sensitive to the culture and context of a given community.