OPPORTUNITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF APPLYING THE CENTRAL ASIAN DIET BASED ON LOCAL FOOD PRODUCTS (CASE OF THE FERGANA VALLEY)

This article examines the opportunities and limitations of applying the Central Asian diet in the Fergana Valley, with a focus on the role of local food products in promoting public health. The study highlights that the valley’s fertile land and diverse agricultural resources provide a strong foundation for the adoption of a traditional dietary model based on cereals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Findings indicate that adherence to this diet can significantly reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, challenges such as globalization, urbanization, the growing popularity of fast food among youth, seasonal dependence of food supply, and limited nutritional education hinder its wider implementation. The article emphasizes the need for integrated strategies, including public health campaigns, support for local agriculture, and school-based nutrition education to encourage healthy eating practices. The research concludes that the Central Asian diet, if properly modernized and promoted, may serve as a sustainable and culturally appropriate approach to improving health outcomes in the Fergana Valley and across the region.