Dietary Habits and Meal Pattern of People Residing in Anand District during COVID-19 Lockdown

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is a condition caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It was declared as global pandemic as it affected millions of people worldwide. A nationwide lockdown was announced to prevent the spread of the disease in India on March 24, 2020. The sudden change in routine lifestyle, home confinement, and fear of this pandemic caused stress and anxiety among the people and this has affected many habits of the people. Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate changes in the dietary habits and meal pattern of people residing in Anand district during COVID-19 lockdown. Methodology: An online survey was conducted through semi-structured questionnaire to study the dietary habits and meal consumption pattern before and during COVID-19 lockdown. Result: The result showed a change in the regularity of meal consumption, type, and number of meals consumed by the respondents. More than 25% of respondents have reported an increase in the number of meals cooked, quantity of food cooked, and number of food items in one meal during the lockdown. Moreover, higher consumption of fruits and vegetables, protein rich foods, herbs, spices, and limited use of fats, oils, sugar, and salt was reported by more than 30% respondents. Conclusion: The present study concludes that this shift toward healthier food habits if sustained could have positive effects on health of people.