A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Food Supplement Practices and the Relationship Between Anxiety and Interest in Nutrition in Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Food supplement usage increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to examine food supplement use and associated factors during the pandemic among adults. Methods This study was conducted between August -September 2021 in 3546 adults. A questionnaire containing a total of 39 questions was applied for socio-demographic characteristics, COVID-19 infection status, and food supplement use. The questionnaire also included the Depression and Anxiety Stress Scale consisting of 21 questions. Descriptive data was presented as mean and standard deviation and the Chi-square test was applied for comparison of categorical data. Multiple regression analyses and linear regression were applied for food supplement likelihood analysis. Results Food supplement usage was 37.1% during the pandemic. Participants with mild anxiety and moderate anxiety were less likely to use food supplements than individuals with extremely severe anxiety. It was observed that the most common food supplements used by adults during the pandemic were vitamin D, vitamin C, and multivitamins. It was observed that the likelihood of using vitamin C, vitamin D, multivitamins, omega-3, B group vitamins, and zinc supplements increased in individuals interested in nutrition during the pandemic. It was determined that the likelihood of using vitamin C, vitamin D, multivitamins, and B group vitamin supplements increased with upper anxiety levels. Conclusion Food supplement use increased among adults during COVID-19. In addition, the type of food supplement has also been affected by COVID-19. During the pandemic, the likelihood of food supplement use increased with the increase in anxiety levels.