Scientists have just released new findings that the coronavirus pandemic is taking a toll on our waistlines. Let’s connect the dots.
Less physical activity, more comfort foods
It probably comes as no surprise that this pandemic has taken a toll on a lot of us, but now researchers have confirmed something we have suspected: it’s leading some to some bad habits.
The study found big changes in health behaviors, including less physical activity, more unhealthy eating and higher anxiety and poor quality sleep.
While some participants did report improvements like more cooking at home and less eating out, many more reported turning to comfort food.
Obese respondents reported most weight gain
The study was published in the Obesity health journal and included thousands of people around the world. It found people struggling with obesity were impacted the most; they reported higher levels of anxiety and weight gain.
Although among people not classified as obese, they still found close to 27 percent also reported weight gain.
Some weight loss, more home cooking
Seventeen percent of people said they had actually lost weight during the pandemic. Those people reported using the pandemic to increase their physical activity levels and make healthy eating choices.
Those who saw health improvements attribute it to cooking and baking more at home.