Comparison of The Nutritional Habits of Individuals With and Without a COVID-19 Diagnosis: An Online Cross-Sectional Study From Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: Türkiye, which is located in the European Region of the World Health Organization (WHO) has been also affected by the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study was conducted between January and April 2021, in which the number of daily COVID-19 cases increased from an average of 8,500 to 50,000. This cross-sectional online study aimed to compare the dietary habits of individuals with and without a COVID-19 diagnosis. Material and Method: The study included a total of 1,448 individuals aged 18-64 years. Study data were collected through the Google platform using a questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics, COVID-19 status, anthropometric measurements, physical activity status, and nutritional characteristics. Results: Those with COVID-19 had higher Body Mass Index (BMI) than those without COVID-19. The rates of those who had regular physical activity, considered nutrition important for protection from COVID-19, and ordered food online were lower among those participants with COVID-19 than those without COVID-19. The rates of those who lost appetite and weight, used nutritional supplements, increased their nutritional budget during the pandemic, and shopped for food from online marketplaces were higher too among those with COVID-19. Those with COVID-19 were found to consume red meat, fruit, and herbal tea more frequently and soft drinks less frequently than those without COVID-19. Conclusion: In line with these results, it may be considered that those with COVID-19 try to comply with healthy nutrition recommendations. Our results can be used to prepare appropriate nutritional guidelines for pandemic and quarantine periods.