Did Iranians change their eating behavior following COVID-19 outbreak?

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Akbarzadeh, Marzieh, Barati-Boldaji, Reza, Mohsenpour, Mohammad, Ferns, Gordon, Jalali, Mohammad, Mosallanezhad, Zahra and Karamizadeh, Malihe (2021) Did Iranians change their eating behavior following COVID-19 outbreak? Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 26. a116 1-7. ISSN 1735-1995

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Abstract

Background:
Significant lifestyle changes have been reported after COVID-19 outbreak. The present study aimed at investigating changes in dietary habits in response to the COVID-19 outbreak in an Iranian population sample.

Materials and Methods:
In this cross-sectional study, the dietary habits of Iranian adults were assessed before and during the COVID-19 outbreak. Consumption of different food groups such as meats, dairy, fruits, vegetables, seeds, and nuts was assessed using a digital questionnaire which was shared on social media platforms. For the statistical analysis, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used.

Results:
In this online survey, 1553 questionnaires were completed. The results showed that the reported consumption of protein-rich foods increased (P < 0.05), but fish and dairy consumption showed a significant reduction (P = 0.006 and <0.001, respectively). There was a significant reduction in reported fast-food consumption (P < 0.001). Fruits and vegetables (P < 0.001), natural fruit juices (P < 0.001), and water (P < 0.001) were consumed more frequently. Individuals also consumed more vitamin and mineral supplements (P < 0.001) including those containing Vitamin D.

Conclusion:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, participants reported a significant change in their dietary habits and intake of supplements. Higher intakes of meats, protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, and nutritional supplements and lower intakes of fish, dairy, and fast foods were reported.

Item Type: Article
Keywords: COVID-19, dietary supplements, eating behavior, pandemic, severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2
Schools and Departments: Brighton and Sussex Medical School > Division of Medical Education
SWORD Depositor: Mx Elements Account
Depositing User: Mx Elements Account
Date Deposited: 03 Nov 2022 14:38
Last Modified: 03 Nov 2022 14:45
URI: http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/108872

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