Physical activity and eating changes during lockdown periods in the COVID-19 pandemic – threat of obesity pandemic

Background
The lockdown implemented due to the pandemic has the risk of setting the stage for type 2 diabetes, weight gain and cardiovascular diseases by limiting physical activity.

Objectives
The aim of this study is to determine the changes in physical activity and eating habits of people during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Material and methods
The data used in this study was obtained using a 25-question questionnaire and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire – Short Form (IPAQ-SF) through communication networks.

Results
The mean age of the participants in the study was 43.33 ± 11.35, 45.3% (n = 541) were male, and 54.7% (n = 652) were female. There was a significant increase in the weight of the participants before and after the 2-month lockdown during the pandemic (mean weight before: 69.19 ± 9.11, mean weight after: 70.47 ± 9.47, p < 0.001). It was determined that participants with higher education levels gained significantly more weight (p = 0.01). It was determined that home office workers, retirees and unemployed gained significantly more weight than employee during the lockdown period (p < 0.001). According to IPAQ-SF scale scores, a significant difference was found in vigorous activity, moderate activity and walking times before and after lockdown (p < 0.001).

Conclusions
During the lockdown period, those with a higher education level and those who were married or female tended to gain more weight. It was determined that home office workers and retirees gained significantly higher weight during the lockdown period. Guidelines should be created for these lockdown periods.