Food habits and body image perception changes during Covid-19 pandemic in Portugal

ABSTRACT

Rationale Our aim was to understand dietary behaviour changes and body image perception during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, enrolling a sample of 828 participants living in Portugal. Data was collected through an online survey, during the period of social lockdown from April to May 2020. Height and weight were reported by participants, and Body Mass Index (BMI) were calculated. A dietary changes questionnaire ad a body image perception test were applied. A descriptive analysis and Spearman correlation test were performed. Results: The analysed sample consisted of 828 participants with ages ranging from 14 -76 years old, the majority being female (n=706). Median BMI was 24,7kg/m2 (range 15,8kg/m2- 52,7kg/m2). A correlation between the BMI and the body image perception was clear in every participant (p=0,000;ρ= 0,777). This correlation could also be found in some dietary behaviours such as the choice for a complete, varied and balanced diet (p=0,000;ρ= 0,179), the increased repetition of servings each meal (p=0,003;ρ= -0,103), and also the decrease of physical activity (p=0,000;ρ= -0,203), during social confinement. It was also possible to identify that 65,9% of the population did not consume the recommended daily allowances as to fruits, 64,4% did not consume legumes at least once a day and 54,7% did not consume soup at least once a day. On the other hand, around 52% of the population started consuming more sweets and cakes. Conclusion: We conclude that in the present scenario, marked by social lockdown, the routines, the perception of one-self and also the dietary behaviours and habits have suffered negative changes in our sample. This highlights the importance of nutrition education during pandemic situations. References Naja F, Hamadeh R. Nutrition amid the COVID-19 pandemic a multi-level framework for action,. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2020;Disclosure of Interest None declared