Shifts in Lifestyle and Dietary Patterns during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Comparative Study of Habit Changes and Health Outcomes

Summary Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted daily life, including lifestyle and dietary habits. This study investigates these changes to understand their effects on health behavior patterns.

Objective: To examine the alterations in smoking habits, physical activity, sleep patterns, dietary behaviors, and supplement use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 participants to assess their lifestyle and dietary habits before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 IBM, with statistical significance determined through chi-square tests, McNemar tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results: The study found a decrease in heavy smoking from 11 % to 9.8 % and a significant rise in sedentary behavior from 44.3 % to 55.5 % (p < 0.001). Sleep patterns shifted, with a reduction in inadequate sleep and increased excessive sleep. Dietary changes included a rise in supplement use from 25.3 % to 41.8 % (p < 0.001) and increased appetite, leading to weight gain (48.3 %). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet showed variability, with some aspects being less adhered to during the pandemic.

Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, including increased sedentary behavior, altered sleep patterns, and shifts in dietary practices. Public health interventions should focus on promoting physical activity, balanced nutrition, and appropriate supplement use. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of these changes and potential strategies for mitigating negative health outcomes.

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