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Jiao W. Older Adults' Exposure to Food Media Induced Unhealthy Eating during the COVID-19 Omicron Lockdown? Exploring Negative Emotions and Associated Literacy and Efficacy on Shanghainese. Foods 2024; 13:1797. [PMID: 38928739 PMCID: PMC11203190 DOI: 10.3390/foods13121797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, propelled by the highly transmissible Omicron variant, had a global impact and significantly affected Shanghai, a major city in China. This study investigates how food media exposure influenced unhealthy eating habits among older adults during the COVID-19 lockdown in Shanghai, focusing on the roles of negative emotions, food literacy, health consciousness, and eating self-efficacy. The random sample comprised 400 individuals aged ≥50 years who lived in Shanghai from March to June 2022. A path and correlation analysis was performed. The exposure of older adults to food media resulted in the acceleration of unhealthy eating. The relationship was significantly exacerbated by food literacy and negative emotions. In contrast, eating self-efficacy and health consciousness effectively countered the media. The enhanced pathway from food-related media influence to eating habits through negative emotions or self-efficacy towards health awareness and food literacy showed significant effects. The findings provide insights for future research and public health strategies. Importantly, this study has practical significance for media professionals, public health decision-makers, and healthy food businesses regarding how to enhance older adults' cognition to respond to unhealthy eating crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Jiao
- School of Communication, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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2
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Kudlek L, Jones RA, Hughes C, Duschinsky R, Hill A, Richards R, Thompson M, Vincent A, Griffin SJ, Ahern AL. Experiences of emotional eating in an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy based weight management intervention (SWiM): A qualitative study. Appetite 2024; 193:107138. [PMID: 38016600 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.107138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emotional eating is a barrier to weight management. Interventions based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) promote the acceptance of uncomfortable feelings, which can reduce the urge to use food as a coping mechanism. We aimed to explore how participants of an ACT-based weight management intervention (WMI) experience emotional eating and relevant intervention content. METHODS We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with participants of a digital ACT-based guided self-help WMI. Fifteen participants were purposefully selected to represent a range of demographic characteristics and emotional eating scores. We used reflexive thematic analysis to explore experiences of emotional eating. RESULTS We generated five themes. Participants improved emotional eating by disconnecting emotions from behaviours though increased self-awareness (theme 1) and by implementing alternative coping strategies, including preparation, substitution, and acceptance (theme 2). Most participants maintained improvements in emotional eating over time but wished for more opportunities to re-engage with intervention content, including more immediate support in triggering situations (theme 3). Participants who struggled to engage with emotional eating related intervention content often displayed an external locus of control over emotional eating triggers (theme 4). The perceived usefulness of the intervention depended on participants' prior experiences of emotional eating, and was thought insufficient for participants with complex emotional experiences (theme 5). DISCUSSION This ACT-based WMI helped participants with emotional eating by improving self-awareness and teaching alternative coping strategies. Intervention developers may consider adding ongoing forms of intervention that provide both real-time and long-term support. Additionally, a better understanding of how to support people with an external locus of control and people with complex experiences of emotional eating is needed. Future research may explore ways of personalising WMIs based on participants' emotional needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Kudlek
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Rebecca A Jones
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Carly Hughes
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Robbie Duschinsky
- Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Hill
- Division of Psychological & Social Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Richards
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Thompson
- Obesity Voices, Obesity Institute, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Vincent
- Obesity Voices, Obesity Institute, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J Griffin
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Primary Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amy L Ahern
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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3
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Grunert KG, Chimisso C, Lähteenmäki L, Leardini D, Sandell MA, Vainio A, Vranken L. Food-related consumer behaviours in times of crisis: Changes in the wake of the Ukraine war, rising prices and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Food Res Int 2023; 173:113451. [PMID: 37803775 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
When the COVID-19 pandemic subsided, the war in Ukraine led to further disruptions in consumers' daily behaviours, with rising prices for food and energy. We conducted a survey study on self-reported changes in food-related consumer behaviour in ten European countries and compared the results to a similar study conducted two years ago. A latent class cluster analysis distinguished five clusters and showed that different types of consumers can be distinguished based on how they react to the crisis as regards their eating habits. 19% of survey participants reported no major changes, and 32% reported changes mostly in terms of more price sensitivity. Among those that reported changes beyond reacting to higher prices, there are indications of more mindful eating and more deliberate choices. The changes already found earlier in response to the COVID-19 pandemic therefore seem to have been strengthened and supplemented by reactions to price increases. The results present a challenge to the food industry in terms of supplying healthy and sustainable food at affordable prices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus G Grunert
- MAPP Centre, Aarhus University, Denmark; School of Marketing and Communication, University of Vaasa, Finland.
| | | | | | | | - Mari A Sandell
- Department of Food and Nutrition, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annukka Vainio
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, Department of Forest Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Liesbet Vranken
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
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4
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Sun S, Chen S, Wang Z, Xiong Y, Xie S. Social Networking Site Use and Emotional Eating Behaviors among Chinese Adolescents: The Effects of Negative Social Comparisons and Perspective-Taking. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:768. [PMID: 37754046 PMCID: PMC10525161 DOI: 10.3390/bs13090768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Emotional eating has emerged as a significant disordered eating and public health concern among adolescents. Despite the widespread prevalence of social networking site (SNS) use among this population, research investigating the influence of SNS use on adolescent eating behaviors remains limited. This study is to examine the impact of SNS use on emotional eating among Chinese adolescents, with a specific focus on exploring the mediating role of negative social comparisons and the moderating effect of perspective-taking. Data were obtained through an online survey involving 778 middle school students in China. The findings indicate that SNS use exerts a positive influence on adolescents' engagement in emotional eating, with this association being mediated by the presence of negative social comparisons. Perspective-taking demonstrated a protective role in the context of adolescents' utilization of social media platforms. For individuals characterized by high levels of perspective-taking, the effects of SNS use on negative social comparisons are mitigated, subsequently reducing its impact on emotional eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Sun
- Department of Psychology, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China
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5
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Głąbska D, Skolmowska D, Guzek D. Emotional Overeating during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Polish Adolescents' COVID-19 Experience (PLACE-19) Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:3818. [PMID: 37686850 PMCID: PMC10490068 DOI: 10.3390/nu15173818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Emotional overeating is the most frequently noted type of emotional eating, being commonly associated with increased consumption of energy-dense products, as well as excessive body mass, and weight gain. Even though a number of studies assessed emotional overeating during the COVID-19 pandemic in adult populations, studies of children and adolescents are scarce. The aim of the present study was to assess emotional overeating background, including consumption in response to six emotions (anxiety, sadness, loneliness, tiredness, anger, and happiness), in the population of Polish adolescents within the PLACE-19 Study during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PLACE-19 Study is a national Polish population-based study of adolescents gathered upon recruitment based on a random quota sampling of secondary schools, conducted in a population of 1126 students (818 females and 308 males, a median of age 17.0 and 16.5 years, respectively). Emotional overeating was assessed while using the Emotional Overeating Questionnaire (EOQ), and as additional factors, the following were assessed: gender, body mass, body mass change during the COVID-19 pandemic, and declared tempting food products. Female participants declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and happiness, and were characterized by a higher total score than male participants, while p ≤ 0.05 was interpreted as a statistical significance. Obese participants declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of sadness, and loneliness than normal weight participants. Participants gaining weight declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of anxiety, sadness, loneliness, tiredness, and anger, and were characterized by a higher total score than participants losing weight or maintaining a stable weight, while participants gaining weight declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of happiness than participants losing weight. Participants declaring both sweet and salty products as tempting declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of anxiety, and sadness than participants declaring no tempting products; participants declaring both sweet and salty products declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of tiredness than participants declaring only salty products and those declaring no tempting products, as well as declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of happiness than participants declaring only sweet products, and those declaring no tempting products; participants declaring sweet products declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of anger than participants declaring no tempting products, while participants declaring both sweet and salty products declared a higher frequency of overeating in response to feelings of loneliness, and were characterized by a higher total score than all other respondents. The sub-groups with the highest frequency of emotional overeating were the female respondents, obese participants, those gaining weight, and those declaring both sweet and salty products as tempting, while among the emotions most often causing emotional overeating, there were sadness and loneliness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Głąbska
- Department of Dietetics, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (D.G.); (D.S.)
| | - Dominika Skolmowska
- Department of Dietetics, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (D.G.); (D.S.)
| | - Dominika Guzek
- Department of Food Market and Consumer Research, Institute of Human Nutrition Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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Wiśniewski OW, Czyżniewski B, Żukiewicz-Sobczak W, Gibas-Dorna M. Nutritional Behavior in European Countries during COVID-19 Pandemic-A Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3451. [PMID: 37571387 PMCID: PMC10420667 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is highly linked with hyperinflammation and dysfunction of the immune cells. Studies have shown that adequate nutrition, a modifiable factor affecting immunity and limiting systemic inflammation, may play an adjunct role in combating the negative consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Due to the global lockdown conditions, the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed, among others, to restrictions on fresh food availability and changes in lifestyle and eating behaviors. The aim of this paper was to review the data regarding eating habits in European countries within the general population of adults and some specific subpopulations, including obese, diabetic, and psychiatric patients, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PubMed database and the official websites of medical organizations and associations were searched for the phrases "COVID" and "eating habits". Papers regarding the pediatric population, non-European countries, presenting aggregated data from different countries worldwide, and reviews were excluded. During the COVID-19 pandemic, unhealthy lifestyles and eating behaviors were commonly reported. These included increased snacking, intake of caloric foods, such as sweets, pastries, and beverages, and a decline in physical activity. Data suggest that poor eating habits that create a positive energy balance have persisted over time as an additional post-COVID negative consequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oskar Wojciech Wiśniewski
- Department of Cardiology-Intensive Therapy and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 49 Przybyszewskiego Street, 60-355 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Nutrition and Food, Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Bartłomiej Czyżniewski
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty Street, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Wioletta Żukiewicz-Sobczak
- Department of Nutrition and Food, Faculty of Health Sciences, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Gibas-Dorna
- Collegium Medicum, Institute of Health Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty Street, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
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7
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Nduka I, Kabasinguzi I, Ali N, Ochepo P, Abdy D, Cook EJ, Egbutah C, Cartwright S, Randhawa G. The impact of COVID-19 on the changes in health behaviours among Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities in the United Kingdom (UK): a scoping review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1466. [PMID: 37525154 PMCID: PMC10391900 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15978-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has led to changes in health behaviours, which include eating patterns and nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, sleeping patterns, physical activity and sedentary behaviour. There is a dearth of evidence reporting the impact of COVID-19 on the health behaviour of Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities. This scoping review synthesises the available evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on the changes in health behaviours among BAME communities in the UK. METHODS Following a keyword strategy, 16 electronic databases were searched for articles that met the screening criteria. These articles were then reviewed in full text. Empirical studies that assessed COVID-19 related health behaviour changes among BAME communities in the UK, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic between July 2020 and August 2021 and published in English language, were set as inclusion criteria. An initial 2160 studies were identified in the selected databases. After removing duplications and screening the title and abstracts of the 2154 studies, only 4 studies were selected to be reviewed as they met the inclusion criteria. The included studies employed different sample sizes which ranged from N = 47 to N = 30,375 and reported several health behaviour changes. Out of the 4 included studies, 3 studies included BAME groups within their sample as a subgroup while one study focused specifically on BAME groups. RESULTS The scoping review found that there were lower levels of physical activity among BAME groups compared to the White ethnic groups. About 41.7% of BAME groups reported drinking less alcohol than usual compared to their white counterparts who were 34%. Study participants from BAME backgrounds had the greatest effect of COVID-19 on decisions to purchase healthier food compared to those from white backgrounds whose decisions on purchasing healthier food were least affected. Some participants reported an increase in positive hygiene practices due to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION COVID-19 had a significant impact on the health behaviours of BAME groups especially during the lockdowns as they reported changes to behaviour such as low levels of physical activities. Hence, it is important to promote health awareness among BAME groups to encourage healthy living. In addition, programmes such as physical fitness activities that favour BAME groups should be put in place, for example BAME women's walking groups to encourage people from BAME backgrounds to engage in physical activities. Furthermore, healthy food programmes such as food parcels can be given to people from BAME backgrounds who are not able to afford healthy food due to the impact of COVID-19. Nonetheless, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased positive hygiene among BAME groups which is important in preventing other diseases and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifunanya Nduka
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | | | - Nasreen Ali
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK.
| | - Peter Ochepo
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | - David Abdy
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
| | | | | | | | - Gurch Randhawa
- Institute for Health Research, University of Bedfordshire, Luton, UK
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8
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Yang W, Niu G, Shi X, Song K, Zhang Y, Yuan Z. Negative family body talk and negative emotional eating among Chinese adolescent girls and young adult women: The role of body dissatisfaction and feminism consciousness. Appetite 2023:106973. [PMID: 37419281 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Negative emotional eating has been increasingly a prominent disordered eating and public health problem among young women, especially during COVID-19. Although previous studies have attempted to explain the relationship between body talk and negative emotional eating, limited studies focused on examining the potential mechanisms, especially the potential protective mechanism. Thus, the current study aimed to examine the relationship between negative family body talk (NFBT) and negative emotional eating, as well as its underlying mechanism - the mediating role of body dissatisfaction (BDIS) and the moderating role of feminism consciousness (FC). A cross-sectional study was employed among a sample of Chinese girls and young women (n = 813, Mage = 19.4 years) from a junior college in central China. Participants completed surveys assessing NFBT (Adapted Body Talk Scale), BDIS (Body Image State Scale), negative emotional eating (Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire), and FC (Synthesis Subscale from Feminist Identity Composite). A moderated mediation analysis was conducted. The results showed that: (1) after controlling for age and BMI, NFBT was positively associated with negative emotional eating, and BDIS could significantly mediate this relationship (mediating effect = 0.03, 95% CI [0.02, 0.06]); (2) FC significantly moderated both the direct relationship between NFBT and negative emotional eating and the relationship between NFBT and BDIS. Specifically, these two associations were not significant for participants with higher FC (+1SD above average). This study deepens our understanding of the relationship between NFBT and negative emotional eating, as well as the protective role of FC. If future studies demonstrate causal relationships, this evidence could point to a need for programs to prevent negative emotional eating in young women by increasing their level of feminism consciousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencheng Yang
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Gengfeng Niu
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China; Center for Research on Internet Literacy and Behavior, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China; Central China Normal University Branch, Collaborative Innovation Center of Assessment Toward Basic Education Quality, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| | - Xiaohan Shi
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Kuai Song
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China; School of Preschool Education, Hubei Preschool Teachers College, Ezhou, 436032, China
| | - Yumang Zhang
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Zihui Yuan
- School of Psychology, Central China Normal University, Key Laboratory of Human Development and Mental Health of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430079, China; Key Laboratory of Adolescent Cyberpsychology and Behavior (CCNU), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430079, China
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9
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Yang W, Xiao D, Shi Y, Dong T, Xiong P. Network analysis of eating disorder and depression symptoms among university students in the late stage of COVID-19 pandemic in China. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1176076. [PMID: 37305081 PMCID: PMC10248072 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1176076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Eating disorders (EDs) and depression are common in university students, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to elucidate characteristics of EDs and depression symptoms networks among Chinese university students in the later stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in China. Methods A total of 929 university students completed the SCOFF questionnaire measuring EDs and Patient Health Questionnaire with 9 items (PHQ-9) measuring depression in Guangzhou, China. The network model was applied to identify central symptoms, bridge symptoms, and important connections between SCOFF and PHQ-9 using R studio. The subgroup analyses of both genders in medical and non-medical students were further explored. Results In the networks of the whole sample, central symptoms included "Loss of control over eating" (EDs) and "Appetite changes" (depression). The bridge connections were between "Loss of control over eating" (EDs) and "Appetite changes" (depression), between "Deliberate vomiting" (EDs) and "Thoughts of death" (depression). "Appetite changes" (depression) and "Feeling of worthlessness" (depression) were central symptoms in both subgroups of medical and non-medical students. "Fatigue" (depression) was the central symptom in the female and medical students group. The edge between "Loss of control over eating" (EDs) and "Appetite changes" (depression) acted as a bridge in all subgroups. Conclusion Social network approaches offered promising ways of further understanding the association between EDs and depression among university students during the pandemic of COVID-19 in China. Investigations targeting central and bridge symptoms would help to develop effective treatments for both EDs and depression for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Yang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongmei Xiao
- School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuchen Shi
- Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyuan Dong
- Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Xiong
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Silva L, Bezzo FB, van Ham M. Covid-19 restrictions: An opportunity to highlight the effect of neighbourhood deprivation on individuals' health-related behaviours. Soc Sci Med 2023; 325:115917. [PMID: 37104968 PMCID: PMC10110283 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.115917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Neighbourhood socio-economic deprivation is strongly related to health-risk behaviours, which are predictors of overall health and mortality. During the Covid-19 pandemic, individuals have been forced to spend more time within their residential areas, which might have had an effect on health-risk behaviours. OBJECTIVE We assess the consequences of living in a more or less deprived neighbourhood during the pandemic on individual behavioural changes in four health-related outcomes: smoking, drinking, physical activity and healthy eating. We hypothesise that the pandemic and related lock-downs had negative effects on health-related behaviours, but that this negative effect had been stronger for people living in more deprived areas. We additionally explore sex and ethnicity as sources of heterogeneity in these effects. METHODS We use data from four nationally representative cohort studies in England. We perform longitudinal individual and neighbourhood fixed effects estimations focusing on comparing the pre-pandemic period with the first lockdown (May 2020) period and up to one year after the outbreak of the pandemic (March 2021). RESULTS During the first lockdown, as compared to pre-pandemic levels, on average, people smoked more, drunk more and did more physical activity. However, compared to people in less deprived neighbourhoods, people living in more deprived areas showed a smaller increase in their levels of physical activity, consumed less fruit and vegetables and increased the number of cigarettes smoked. We additionally find that the combined effect of Covid-19 and area deprivation varies significantly by both sex and ethnicity. CONCLUSION Results add to evidence on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns on health-risk behaviours, highlighting the relative contribution of the neighbourhood environment and individual characteristics. We argue that reducing levels of neighbourhood deprivation may contribute to positively influence behaviours, especially for some sub-groups of the population, leading to a reduction of social inequalities in health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Silva
- Sciences Po, Paris, France; CREST, Paris, France.
| | | | - Maarten van Ham
- Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands; Pandemic and Disaster Preparedness Center, the Netherlands
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11
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Üstün D, Yilmaz S. Determining the Effect of Stress and Anxiety on Eating Attitudes in Healthcare Providers Working on COVID-19 Wards. Ecol Food Nutr 2023; 62:88-105. [PMID: 36882968 DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2023.2187384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the stress, anxiety and eating conditions of health personnel working in COVID-19 clinics, to evaluate how they interact with each other with a holistic approach, and to examine the role of variables such as gender and BMI in these relationships. It was determined that 1-unit increase in the TFEQ-18 score decreased stress and anxiety levels 1.09 and 1.028 times, respectively. We were able to show that stress and anxiety levels of participants negatively affect their eating behavior and anxiety levels of health personnel negatively affect their eating behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilara Üstün
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sine Yilmaz
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, School of Health Sciences, Ankara Medipol University, Ankara, Turkey
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12
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Van Laren A, Drießen M, Rasa S, Massar K, Ten Hoor GA. Nutritional changes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid scoping review on the impact of psychological factors. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2023; 74:124-187. [PMID: 36823035 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2023.2180613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 and the resulting measures to curb the spread of the virus have significantly changed our lives, including our nutritional choices. In this rapid scoping review an overview is provided of what psychological factors may be associated with peoples' eating behaviour during COVID-19 restrictions. Relevant literature was identified using PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL and MEDLINE databases from 2019 onwards. For included studies, information on study characteristics, eating behaviours, and psychological factors were extracted. 118 articles were included, representing 30 countries. Findings indicated that most people consumed more and unhealthy food in times of COVID-19 restrictions, while some consumed less but often for the wrong reasons. Several psychological factors, related to (1) affective reactions, (2) anxiety, fear and worriers, (3) stress and (4) subjective and mental wellbeing were found to be associated with this increase in food consumption. These outcomes may help to be better inform future interventions, and with that, to be better prepared in case of future lockdown scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthea Van Laren
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mona Drießen
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sophia Rasa
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Karlijn Massar
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gill A Ten Hoor
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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13
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Moseley RL, Atkinson C, Surman R, Greville-Harris M, May L, Vuillier L. Sex-specific mechanisms for eating disorder risk in men and women with autistic traits: the role of alexithymia. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:18. [PMID: 36765413 PMCID: PMC9912205 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00746-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A poorly understood relationship exists between eating disorders (ED) and autism spectrum conditions (ASC: henceforth 'autism'). ED are more prevalent in autistic people and people with high autistic traits, and autistic features are prognostic of longer illness. Aiming to understand what increases the risk of ED in relation to autism and autistic traits, previous research has implicated alexithymia as a causal mechanism in this relationship. These studies could not, however, disentangle whether alexithymia explains the relationship between ED pathology and autistic traits directly or through its impact on anxious/depressive symptoms, which in turn result in higher ED symptomatology. Moreover, despite evidence for sex differences in the aetiology of ED, little research has examined the impact of sex on these relationships. METHODS Focusing on the association between autistic traits and ED psychopathology, we examined independent mediating effects of alexithymia and anxious/depressive symptoms, as well as sequential mediation effects where alexithymia affects ED psychopathology via its impact on anxious/depressive symptoms. Participants were 198 men and 265 women with formally diagnosed and suspected ED, who completed an online survey of standardised scales. RESULTS In men, higher autistic traits were associated with ED psychopathology sequentially via greater alexithymia and through that, greater depressive/anxious symptoms. In women, alexithymia mediated the relationship between autistic traits and ED psychopathology both directly and sequentially through its impact on anxious/depressive symptoms. Interestingly, depressive/anxious symptoms also mediated that relationship independently from alexithymia. CONCLUSIONS While cross-sectional, these findings suggest that the relationship between autistic traits and ED symptomatology is mediated by other variables. In support of its proposed role in the aetiology of ED, alexithymia was directly associated with ED symptoms in women. It also affected ED symptoms indirectly, in all participants, via its effect on depressive/anxious symptoms. Interventions focusing on alexithymia may facilitate recovery not only via their effect on ED, but via their effect on other forms of state psychopathology which contribute to the maintenance and development of ED. Sex differences, however, reflect that alternative therapeutic targets for men and women may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Moseley
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK.
| | - C Atkinson
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - R Surman
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | | | - L May
- Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust, Poole, UK
| | - L Vuillier
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
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14
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Um CY, Hodge RA, McCullough ML. Change in Diet Quality and Meal Sources during the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Diverse Subset of Men and Women in the Cancer Prevention Study-3. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15040849. [PMID: 36839207 PMCID: PMC9962248 DOI: 10.3390/nu15040849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in restrictive measures that caused disruptions in behaviors that may have long-term consequences on diet, health, and chronic disease risk. The aim of this study was to assess longitudinal changes in diet quality from before to during the pandemic among 2335 adult participants (816 males and 1519 females; aged 36-78) of the Cancer Prevention Study-3 cohort. We compared dietary screeners conducted in 2018 and 2020 and calculated a diet quality score, which assigned higher points for recommended foods. Overall diet quality slightly improved among all participants from before to during the pandemic, particularly among males (+0.45 points, p < 0.001), White participants (+0.24 points, p < 0.001), and participants reporting weight loss (+0.66 points, p < 0.001 for 2.25 -< 4.5 kg loss; +1.04 points, p < 0.001 for ≥4.5 kg loss); change in diet quality did not differ by other sociodemographic factors. Reported consumption of most food groups decreased, especially whole grains (-0.17 servings/day, p < 0.001) and vegetables (-0.21 servings/day, p < 0.001), primarily among females, Black participants, and participants who gained ≥2.25 kg. The frequency of meals from outside the home decreased, especially in full-service restaurants (-0.47 times/week, p < 0.001) and for ready-to-eat meals (-0.37 times/week, p < 0.001). Declines in whole grain and vegetable consumption raise concerns for weight gain in these populations and increased risk of poor metabolic health and chronic disease.
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15
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Marwood J, Brown T, Kaiseler M, Clare K, Feeley A, Blackshaw J, Ells LJ. Psychological support within tier 2 adult weight management services, are we doing enough for people with mental health needs? A mixed-methods survey. Clin Obes 2023:e12580. [PMID: 36695161 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Depression and obesity are two of the most highly prevalent global public health concerns. Obesity and poor mental health are strongly associated, and it is likely that mental health needs are common in people seeking weight management services. The aim was to identify what psychological support is provided and required in tier 2 adult weight management services (T2 WMS). Online survey was conducted: quantitative data were summarized, and open-ended free-text questions were coded and thematically analysed. Participants were current or recent service users with self-reported mental health needs (n = 27), commissioners (n = 9) or providers (n = 17). Over half of service users did not feel their mental health needs were met and 60% said they would like additional psychological support within T2 WMS. Findings highlight the lack of psychological and emotional support. Psychological support and behaviour change techniques are conflated, with a lack of clear understanding or definition of what psychological support is, either between or within service users, providers, and commissioners. Moving towards more person-centred care, better identification and triaging of those living with mental health issues, together with improved resources and training of providers, is crucial to improve outcomes for people living with obesity and poor mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tamara Brown
- School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Mariana Kaiseler
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Kenneth Clare
- School of Health, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Obesity UK, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Alison Feeley
- Department of Health and Social Care, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, London, UK
| | - Jamie Blackshaw
- Department of Health and Social Care, Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, London, UK
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16
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McAtamney K, Mantzios M, Egan H, Wallis DJ. A systematic review of the relationship between alexithymia and emotional eating in adults. Appetite 2023; 180:106279. [PMID: 36087827 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Elucidating psychological characteristics associated with emotional eating may further inform interventions for this behaviour related to eating psychopathology. The present systematic review aimed to examine the relationship between alexithymia and self-reported emotional eating in adults, and provide a narrative synthesis of the existing literature. Using the PRISMA method for systematic reviews, six databases (MEDLINE, PsycInfo, PsycArticles, PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) were searched for peer-reviewed, quantitative research published between January 1994 and 20th July 2021, when the searches were conducted. Eligible articles investigated the association between alexithymia, as measured by the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (Bagby, Parker, & Taylor, 1994), and emotional eating, as measured by any validated self-report instrument. Nine cross-sectional articles were reviewed, and risk of bias was assessed using the Appraisal Tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (Downes, Brennan, Williams, & Dean, 2016). A narrative synthesis of articles suggests positive associations between alexithymia and self-reported emotional eating. Five measures of emotional eating were used across articles, with limited but consistent evidence for the relationship between alexithymia and emotional eating as measured by the Dutch Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (Van strien et al., 1986). Further research is required to add evidence to the nature of the relationship between alexithymia and emotional eating, and to explore mechanisms that might underpin any relationships. Understanding the association between alexithymia and emotional eating may support strategies and interventions for those seeking help for emotional eating and related eating behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine McAtamney
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Cardigan Street, Birmingham, B4 7DB, United Kingdom.
| | - Michail Mantzios
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Cardigan Street, Birmingham, B4 7DB, United Kingdom.
| | - Helen Egan
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Cardigan Street, Birmingham, B4 7DB, United Kingdom.
| | - Deborah J Wallis
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, Cardigan Street, Birmingham, B4 7DB, United Kingdom.
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17
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Kaner G, Yurtdaş-Depboylu G, Çalık G, Yalçın T, Nalçakan T. Evaluation of perceived depression, anxiety, stress levels and emotional eating behaviours and their predictors among adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Health Nutr 2022; 26:1-10. [PMID: 36453207 PMCID: PMC9767902 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022002579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to (1) evaluate the prevalence and predictors of perceived depression, anxiety, stress (DAS) levels and emotional eating behaviours and (2) determine the correlations between DAS levels and emotional eating behaviours during the pandemic. DESIGN An online cross-sectional study included questions about demographic and anthropometric characteristics, dietary habits, Emotional Appetite Questionnaire (EMAQ) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales. The snowball sampling method was used. SETTING Türkiye. PARTICIPANTS The study population was 2002 adults aged ≥18 years. RESULT The mean age was 27·1 ± 9·52 years (72·1 % females and 27·9 % males). The prevalence of moderate to severe DAS was reported as 27·8 %, 30·5 % and 30·7 %, respectively. Skipping meals (OR = 1·32, 95 % CI (1·14, 1·49)) was associated with depression. Weight gain (OR = 1·43, 95 % CI (1·19, 1·66); OR = 1·30, 95 % CI (1·14, 1·49); OR = 1·39, 95 % CI (1·14, 1·64)), weight loss (OR = 1·45, 95 % CI (1·20, 1·70); OR = 1·37, 95 % CI (1·11, 1·62); OR = 1·46, 95 % CI (1·20, 1·72)), exercising at least 150 min/week (OR = 0·64, 95 % CI (0·46, 0·83); OR = 0·73, 95 % CI (0·55, 0·92); OR = 0·83, 95 % CI (0·63, 1·02)), and maintaining an adequate and balanced diet (OR = 0·52, 95 % CI (0·33, 0·71); OR = 0·53, 95 % CI (0·34, 0·73); OR = 0·63, 95 % CI (-0·15, 0·35)) were associated with DAS, respectively. BMI (r = 0·169, P < 0·001), weight (r = 0·152, P < 0·001), number of snacks (r = 0·102, P = 0·011), depression (r = 0·060, P = 0·007), anxiety (r = 0·061, P = 0·006) and stress (r = 0·073, P = 0·001) levels were positively correlated with EMAQ-negative scores. CONCLUSION Approximately one out of every three participants reported moderate to severe DAS levels. Emotional eating was significantly correlated with perceived DAS. The predictors obtained in the study suggest that a healthy diet and lifestyle behaviours are part of psychological well-being and emotional eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülşah Kaner
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Balatçık Mahallesi Havaalanı Şosesi No: 33/2 Balatçık, Çiğli, Izmir35620, Turkey
| | - Gamze Yurtdaş-Depboylu
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Balatçık Mahallesi Havaalanı Şosesi No: 33/2 Balatçık, Çiğli, Izmir35620, Turkey
| | - Gamze Çalık
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Balatçık Mahallesi Havaalanı Şosesi No: 33/2 Balatçık, Çiğli, Izmir35620, Turkey
| | - Tuba Yalçın
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Balatçık Mahallesi Havaalanı Şosesi No: 33/2 Balatçık, Çiğli, Izmir35620, Turkey
| | - Tutku Nalçakan
- Izmir Katip Celebi University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Departments of Nutrition and Dietetics, Balatçık Mahallesi Havaalanı Şosesi No: 33/2 Balatçık, Çiğli, Izmir35620, Turkey
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18
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Evgi̇n D, Kılıç KM. Relationship between healthy life awareness, emotional eating, obesity awareness, and coping stress in adolescents. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pits.22834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Derya Evgi̇n
- Department of Child Development, Faculty of Health Sciences Kayseri University Kayseri Turkey
| | - Kızbes Meral Kılıç
- Department of Child Development, Faculty of Health Sciences Akdeniz University Antalya Turkey
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19
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Park J, Hwang S, Baek S, Ten Hoor GA. An Interactive Live and Online Cooking Program for Children in Vulnerable Families-An Exploratory Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10122389. [PMID: 36553913 PMCID: PMC9778471 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10122389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of technology for communication and social interactions. Especially for children in low-income families-a vulnerable population suffering from health and digital disparities-the situation worsened during the pandemic. Earlier studies in times of COVID-19 suggested that the children in Korea who usually do homework and dine at community childcare centers (CCCCs, free after-school care places) need to learn more about how to eat healthily and how to interact with others using digital technology. Therefore, to reduce these children's health and digital inequalities, an interactive live and online cooking program was developed and provided to 313 children and 95 staff members at the 29 CCCCs located in the southern provinces in South Korea. The aim of the current study was to explore the experiences of children and staff with the program. After surveying their experiences, a high degree of satisfaction was found (children: 3.60 ± 0.10; staff: 3.63 ± 0.08 points out of 4.00). Aspects that needed improvement in the program were related to (in)experience in online technology, the frequency and timing of the cooking classes, and the communication between the centers and (online) chefs. In addition, in a word cloud analysis, terms such as 'fun', 'delicious', and 'want' were highlighted for children, and terms such as 'participating' and 'preparation' dominantly appeared for the staff. In the analysis of negative experiences, terms related to environmental factors such as 'sound', 'hear', and 'voice' were highlighted. This novel but preliminary approach for children from low-income families, by integrating cooking with digital technology, indicates that with enough digital support, the CCCCs are a promising platform to promote healthy eating and digital literacy. Optimizing and disseminating these strategies during this pandemic period, and future pandemics, could be beneficial to keep children in their communities healthy, and ultimately reduce socioeconomic health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiyoung Park
- Institute for Health Science Research, College of Nursing, Inje University, Busan 44720, Republic of Korea
| | - Sein Hwang
- Department of Social Welfare Administration, College of Health and Welfare, Inje University, Gimhae-si 50834, Republic of Korea
| | - Seolhyang Baek
- Department of Nursing, College of Nursing, WISE Campus, Dongguk University, Dongdaero 123, Gyeongju-si 38066, Republic of Korea
| | - Gill A. Ten Hoor
- Department of Work & Social Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Neurosciences, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
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20
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Damerdji F, Rotsaert M, Wacquier B, Hein M, Loas G. Prevalence and Relationships between Alexithymia, Anhedonia, Depression and Anxiety during the Belgian COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15264. [PMID: 36430003 PMCID: PMC9691107 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Alexithymia and anhedonia are associated with psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic lead to a significant deterioration in the mental health of the population. It is therefore important to examine the effects of lockdown on alexithymia and anhedonia and their relationships with anxiety and depression. We compared the scores and characteristics of 286 patients divided into two groups: one before lockdown (group 1, N = 127), the other during the progressive lockdown release (group 2, N = 159). The groups were homogeneous in terms of age, sex ratio, socio-professional categories, and somatic and psychiatric comorbidities. The groups were compared on the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) measuring alexithymia, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) measuring depression, the anhedonia subscale of the BDI-II measuring state-anhedonia and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) measuring state and trait anxiety. The ratio of alexithymic subjects in group 1 is 22.83% to 33.33% in group 2 (p-value = 0.034). This suggests a significant increase in the number of alexithymic patients after lockdown. We did not observe any difference in the proportion of depressed and anxious subjects before or after lockdown. Among the different scales, higher scores were only found on the cognitive factor of alexithymia on group 2 comparatively to group 1. This study indicates an increase in the proportion of alexithymic subjects following lockdown. Unexpectedly, this was unrelated to depression, anxiety or anhedonia levels, which remained stable. Further studies are needed to confirm this result and to evaluate precisely which factors related to the lockdown context are responsible for such an increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Damerdji
- Department of Psychiatry & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB 266), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marianne Rotsaert
- Department of Psychology & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB 266), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Benjamin Wacquier
- Department of Psychiatry & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB 266), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Matthieu Hein
- Department of Psychiatry & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB 266), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gwenolé Loas
- Department of Psychiatry & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB 266), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Scandurra C, Pizzo R, Pinto LE, Cafasso C, Pellegrini R, Cafaggi F, D’Anna O, Muzii B, Bochicchio V, Maldonato NM. Emotion Dysregulation and Conspiracy Beliefs about COVID-19: The Moderating Role of Critical Social Media Use. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2022; 12:1559-1571. [PMID: 36286093 PMCID: PMC9601468 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe12100109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As COVID-19 has spread worldwide, conspiracy theories have proliferated rapidly on social media platforms, adversely affecting public health. For this reason, media literacy interventions have been highly recommended, although the impact of critical social media use on the development of COVID-19 conspiracy theories has not yet been empirically studied. Moreover, emotional dysregulation may play another crucial role in the development of such theories, as they are often associated with stress, anxiety, lack of control, and other negative emotions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that emotion dysregulation would be positively associated with conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 and that critical use of social media would attenuate this association. Data from 930 Italian participants (339 men and 591 women) were collected online during the third wave of the COVID-19 outbreak. A moderated model was tested using the PROCESS Macro for SPSS. Results showed that: (1) emotion dysregulation and critical social media use accounted for a significant proportion of the variance in conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19; and (2) critical social media use moderated the effect of emotion dysregulation on conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19. Implications for preventing the spread of conspiracy theories are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Scandurra
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-334-15-23-239
| | - Rosa Pizzo
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luca Emanuel Pinto
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia Cafasso
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Renata Pellegrini
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Federica Cafaggi
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Oriana D’Anna
- Intradepartmental Program of Clinical Psychology Federico II, University Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Benedetta Muzii
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Bochicchio
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Napoli, Italy
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22
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Muth AK, Losecaat Vermeer A, Terenzi D, Park SQ. The impact of diet and lifestyle on wellbeing in adults during COVID-19 lockdown. Front Nutr 2022; 9:993180. [PMID: 36276821 PMCID: PMC9582278 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.993180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A healthy diet and lifestyle may protect against adverse mental health outcomes, which is especially crucial during stressful times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This preregistered longitudinal online study explored whether diet and lifestyle (physical activity, sleep, and social interactions) were associated with wellbeing and mood during a light lockdown in Germany. Participants (N = 117, 72 males; 28 ± 9 years old) answered mental health and lifestyle questionnaires (social connections, sleep, activity) followed by submitting 1 week of food and mood-lifestyle diary (food intake, positive and negative mood, mental wellbeing, sleep quality, physical activity level, quantity and quality of social interactions) via a smartphone app. We used multivariate linear and mixed-effects models to associate mood and wellbeing with dietary components and lifestyle factors. Interindividual analyses revealed that sleep and social interaction significantly impacted mood and wellbeing. Interestingly, fruit and vegetable intake correlated with wellbeing, even when controlling for all lifestyle factors. Fruit and vegetable intake also significantly correlated with daily fluctuations in wellbeing within individuals next to sleep, physical activity, and social interactions. We observed gender differences in fruit and vegetable intake and anxiety levels. Our results emphasize the importance of diet contributing to individual wellbeing, even in the challenging times of a pandemic. Future research is necessary to test if our findings could extend to other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Katrin Muth
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany,Neuroscience Research Center, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annabel Losecaat Vermeer
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany,Neuroscience Research Center, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Damiano Terenzi
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany,Neuroscience Research Center, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetes, Neuherberg, Germany,*Correspondence: Damiano Terenzi,
| | - Soyoung Q. Park
- Department of Decision Neuroscience and Nutrition, German Institute of Human Nutrition (DIfE), Potsdam-Rehbrücke, Germany,Neuroscience Research Center, and Berlin Institute of Health, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany,Deutsches Zentrum für Diabetes, Neuherberg, Germany,Soyoung Q. Park,
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23
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Annam S, Fleming MF, Gulraiz A, Zafar MT, Khan S, Oghomitse-Omene PT, Saleemuddin S, Patel P, Ahsan Z, Qavi MSS. The Impact of COVID-19 on the Behaviors and Attitudes of Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2022; 14:e29719. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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24
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Relationship between Mental Health and Emotional Eating during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14193989. [PMID: 36235642 PMCID: PMC9573278 DOI: 10.3390/nu14193989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is one of the most dangerous epidemics of the 21st century. In 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic began and caused many deaths among patients with obesity with and without complications. Simultaneously, the lockdown related to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a host of emotional problems including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Many people began to cope with their emotions by increasing food (emotional eating) and alcohol consumption and in combination with decreased physical activity, promoted the development of overweight and obesity. Emotional eating, also known as stress eating, is defined as the propensity to eat in response to positive and negative emotions and not physical need. It should be noted that emotional eating may be the first step in the development of binge eating disorder and its extreme subtypes such as food addiction. Interestingly in some post-bariatric surgery patients, an increased frequency of addictive disorders has been observed, for example food addiction replaced by alcohol addiction called: “cross addiction” or “addiction transfer”. This data indicates that obesity should be treated as a psychosomatic disease, in the development of which external factors causing the formation of negative emotions may play a significant role. Currently, one of these factors is the COVID-19 pandemic. This manuscript discusses the relationships between the COVID-19 pandemic and development of emotional eating as well as potential implications of the viral pandemic on the obesity pandemic, and the need to change the approach to the treatment of obesity in the future.
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Hadar-Shoval D, Alon-Tirosh M, Asraf K, Tannous-Haddad L, Tzischinsky O. Lifestyle Changes, Emotional Eating, Gender, and Stress during COVID-19 Lockdown. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183868. [PMID: 36145243 PMCID: PMC9501635 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Emotional eating poses health risks. It is associated with adverse weight gain and a higher body mass index and is frequently triggered by stressful situations such as pandemics. The COVID-19 pandemic was found to cause stress as well as lifestyle changes of different magnitudes. This study examined the relationship between lifestyle changes and emotional eating by focusing on the moderating effect of gender and COVID-19-related stressors. A total of 1969 respondents completed online questionnaires during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Israel. The questionnaires assessed COVID-19-related lifestyle changes concerning eating habits, alcohol consumption, sleep quality, physical activity, and cigarette smoking, COVID-19-related stressors, and emotional eating (Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire). People with positive and negative COVID-19-related lifestyle changes demonstrated higher emotional eating compared to people with no lifestyle changes. The relationship between lifestyle changes and emotional eating was moderated by gender and COVID-19-related stressors. In conclusion, health officials should consider recommendations about lifestyle changes given to the public in times of unpredictable changes, with special attention to populations at risk of emotional eating. As emotional eating is related to poor emotional regulation skills, public nutrition recommendations should focus on improving these skills rather than adopting better diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorit Hadar-Shoval
- Psychology Department, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley 1930600, Israel
- Correspondence:
| | - Michal Alon-Tirosh
- Behavioral Sciences Department, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley 1930600, Israel
| | - Kfir Asraf
- Psychology Department, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley 1930600, Israel
| | - Lubna Tannous-Haddad
- Behavioral Sciences Department, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley 1930600, Israel
| | - Orna Tzischinsky
- Educational Counseling Department, The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Yezreel Valley 1930600, Israel
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Isham EA, Lomayesva S, Teng J. Time estimation and passage of time judgment predict eating behaviors during COVID-19 lockdown. Front Psychol 2022; 13:961092. [PMID: 36081727 PMCID: PMC9444799 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.961092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor eating habits often lead to health concerns. While mental health conditions such as stress and anxiety have been linked as predictors for eating behaviors, cognitive factors may also contribute to eating practices during the early stages of the mandatory COVID-19 lockdown. In the current study, participants responded to a survey that asked them to judge the passing of time (PoTJ) and to produce short intervals (via a time production task) as an index of the internal clock speed. Additionally, they responded to questions about snacking frequency and the tendency to overeat during lockdown. We observed that those who judged time to pass slowly also reported a greater tendency to snack and overeat during the pandemic. Additional analysis also revealed that the effect of PoTJ on snacking is moderated by the internal clock speed such that those who felt time was passing by slowly, and in combination with a faster internal clock (as indexed by shorter duration production), had a greater tendency to snack. The results suggest that different aspects of temporal cognition play potential roles in influencing different types of eating behaviors. Our findings therefore have implications for eating disorders, along with the potential of time-based intervention or behavioral modification approaches.
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Lyvers M, Kelahroodi M, Udodzik E, Stapleton P, Thorberg FA. Alexithymia and binge eating: Maladaptive emotion regulation strategy or deficient interoception? Appetite 2022; 175:106073. [PMID: 35568089 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2022.106073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alexithymia has been linked to various excessive behaviors as a likely risk factor, including binge eating. Such relationships are often attributed to deficient emotional self-regulation in alexithymia, ostensibly leading to the use of maladaptive, externalized behaviors as strategies for coping with distress. An alternative view is that alexithymia reflects a fundamental deficit of interoceptive awareness that, in the case of binge eating, would suggest that internal satiety cues are poorly recognized, promoting overconsumption. The present study assessed the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating in the context of these competing hypotheses. A large online sample of young adults (n = 532) completed validated measures of alexithymia, emotion regulation, interoception, binge eating, emotional eating motivation, and sensitivity to reward and punishment. Correlations were as expected except for interoception, which showed minimal association with alexithymia or binge eating. In a hierarchical regression controlling for age, gender, education level and student status as covariates, binge eating was predicted by emotional eating motivation, emotion regulation (a negative predictor), alexithymia, and reward sensitivity, with the final model explaining 53% of variance in binge eating. Bootstrapped path analyses controlling for all other variables indicated that the relationship between alexithymia and binge eating was mediated by deficient emotion regulation but not deficient interoception, and that the relationships of both alexithymia and emotion regulation with binge eating were mediated by emotional eating motivation. Results are consistent with the notion that the association of alexithymia with binge eating reflects deficient emotion regulation in alexithymia, which can lead to adoption of maladaptive, externalized behaviors such as binge eating for coping with distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Lyvers
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia.
| | | | - Emily Udodzik
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
| | - Peta Stapleton
- School of Psychology, Bond University, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia
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Moro GL, Bert F, Catozzi D, Scacchi A, Siliquini R. Emotional eating and depression during the pandemic: QuarantEat, an Italian nationwide survey. Nutrition 2022; 103-104:111825. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2022.111825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Changes in patterns of eating habits and food intake during the first German COVID-19 lockdown: results of a cross-sectional online survey. Eur J Nutr 2022; 61:3293-3306. [PMID: 35759031 PMCID: PMC9244021 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-02919-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The COVID-19 pandemic and public measures have a direct impact on the nutrition situation; studies show changes in food consumption, eating behavior or body weight but complex pattern analyses of changes rarely exist. Methods During the first German lockdown, a web-based survey was conducted among adults. It included 33 questions about changes in food intake, eating habits and physical activity, as well as anthropometrics and sociodemographic factors. Patterns of change were calculated based on changes in food intake and eating habits using two-step cluster analysis. To identify influencing factors for assignment to the patterns of change, binary logistic regression analyses were performed. Results Data from 2103 participants (81% female, 40 ± 14 years) were considered for analysis. Increased stockpiling, cooking, and variation in preparation was reported by 50–70%. The constant pattern (C-P, 36%) reported little change besides the above. The health-oriented pattern (HO-P; 37%) reported eating more healthy foods, avoiding unhealthy foods, and eating less and less frequently. The emotional-driven pattern (ED-P; 28%) exhibits higher influence of emotions on eating behavior, less avoidance of unhealthy foods, and increased consumption of sweets, pastries, and alcohol. The odds of changing eating behavior either to HO-P or ED-P were higher in women, people with migration background, younger participants, and increased with BMI categories. Conclusion Both, the ED-P and HO-P, exhibit distinctive reactions in eating habits and food intake when dealing with a distressing experience. In subgroups, these may lead to disturbances in eating behavior and increase the risk for eating disorders and obesity.
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Vigil P, Meléndez J, Soto H, Petkovic G, Bernal YA, Molina S. Chronic Stress and Ovulatory Dysfunction: Implications in Times of COVID-19. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:866104. [PMID: 35677754 PMCID: PMC9168655 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.866104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is known to be associated with adverse health outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdowns are examples of chronic stressors. Lockdown measures inadvertently caused significant psychological distress and became a powerful source of anxiety/stress, sleep disturbances, nutritional changes and weight gain. Stress is known to impact women's health specifically, through hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis dysfunction and resultant ovulatory dysfunction. Such dysfunction may manifest in menstrual irregularities and/or infertility due to hypothalamic hypogonadism. Here, we review the key physiological mediators of stress and associated ovulatory dysfunction. The kisspeptinergic system is comprised of sets of neurons located in the hypothalamus, the rostral periventricular region of the third ventricle (RP3V) and the arcuate nucleus (ARC). This system links nutrition, reproductive signals and stress. It plays a key role in the function of the HPG axis. During chronic stress, the kisspeptinergic system affects the HPG axis, GnRH pulsatility, and, therefore, ovulation. Leptin, insulin and corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) are thought to be additional key modulators in the behavioral responses to chronic stress and may contribute to stress-related ovulatory dysfunction. This mini-review also summarizes and appraises the available evidence on the negative impact of chronic stress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. It proposes physiological mechanisms to explain the observed effects on women's reproductive health and well-being. The review suggests areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Vigil
- Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), Santiago, Chile
- Fundación Médica San Cristóbal, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Pilar Vigil
| | - Jaime Meléndez
- Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), Santiago, Chile
| | - Hugo Soto
- Reproductive Health Research Institute (RHRI), Santiago, Chile
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Yanara A. Bernal
- Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Santiago Molina
- Tallahassee Community College, Tallahassee, FL, United States
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Dominte ME, Swami V, Enea V. Fear of COVID-19 mediates the relationship between negative emotional reactivity and emotional eating. Scand J Psychol 2022; 63:462-467. [PMID: 35526105 PMCID: PMC9347635 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted high levels of emotional eating during the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic, but have not satisfactorily explained these changing eating patterns. Here, we tested one potential explanatory model broadly based on a biosocial model of emotional eating. Specifically, we examined the extent to which negative emotional reactivity was associated with emotional eating, as well as the mediating role of fear of COVID‐19. A total of 474 women from Romania were asked to complete measures of emotional eating, negative emotional reactivity, and fear of COVID‐19. Mediation analysis showed that higher negative emotional reactivity was significantly and directly associated with greater emotional eating. This direct relationship was also mediated by fear of COVID‐19. These results highlight one possible route through which the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic may have resulted in elevated rates of emotional eating, though further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mădălina Elena Dominte
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Viren Swami
- School of Psychology and Sport Science, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, UK.,Centre for Psychological Medicine, Perdana University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Violeta Enea
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University, Iaşi, Romania
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Randall T, Mellor C, Wilkinson LL. A Qualitative Study Exploring Management of Food Intake in the United Kingdom During the Coronavirus Pandemic. Front Psychol 2022; 13:869510. [PMID: 35572286 PMCID: PMC9093183 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.869510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted dietary quality through increased emotional eating and extended time spent at home, as well as instances of panic buying due to uncertainty over food availability. We recruited an opportunistic sample of 40 adults living in the United Kingdom (Female = 25; Mean age = 41.9 years) (SD = 14.4) without any prior history of eating disorders. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in June 2020 and focused on the impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on eating habits and experiences of panic buying. The data were transcribed and organized using the softwares Otter and Quirkos, respectively. Reflexive thematic analysis identified positive and negative changes to eating habits. Overall, themes highlighted that effective organization was vital to manage food purchases and consumption due to a reduced shopping frequency. However, overconsumption frequently occurred due to boredom and ease of accessing energy dense foods, which had negative implications for weight and body image. After indulging, participants attempted to revert to prior eating habits and adhere to a nutritious diet. Many also expressed the importance of having enough food to feed families, which was often reported as a reason for buying extra supplies. Understanding the long-term impacts of changes to eating habits that account for the novel coronavirus context is required to preserve health and prevent unintended changes to weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tennessee Randall
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression in the population. These are associated with unhealthy eating patterns and sedentary behaviour. In turn, this may increase risk of obesity or aggravate it. This narrative review discusses the link between adverse mental health states and weight related behaviours. We present emerging evidence for this phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals with and without pre-existing obesity. RECENT FINDINGS A sizeable proportion of the population exhibits deterioration in mental health during the pandemic and those affected often report unhealthy weight-related behaviours such as "junk food" consumption and physical inactivity. Women, individuals with obesity, and those with pre-existing mental health conditions seem to be particularly at risk for overeating in response to stress (i.e. emotional eating). A number of psychological interventions including cognitive behavioural therapy and self-compassion may be effective in improving mental health and emotional eating patterns among the general population and particularly in individuals living with obesity. There is a need to complement efforts to improve mental health in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic with targeted action to improve physical activity levels and healthy eating particularly among groups at-risk. This may be achieved by reducing disruptions to specialist and primary healthcare services and facilitating access to psychological interventions that address stress-related eating behaviours. Additional studies that examine such interventions, especially those that are delivered remotely, are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osnat C Melamed
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Stokes St, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H4, Canada.
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Peter Selby
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Stokes St, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H4, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Valerie H Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Du C, Adjepong M, Zan MCH, Cho MJ, Fenton JI, Hsiao PY, Keaver L, Lee H, Ludy MJ, Shen W, Swee WCS, Thrivikraman J, Amoah-Agyei F, de Kanter E, Wang W, Tucker RM. Gender Differences in the Relationships between Perceived Stress, Eating Behaviors, Sleep, Dietary Risk, and Body Mass Index. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14051045. [PMID: 35268020 PMCID: PMC8912409 DOI: 10.3390/nu14051045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Obesity is a growing epidemic among university students, and the high levels of stress reported by this population could contribute to this issue. Singular relationships between perceived stress; engagement in restrained, uncontrolled, and emotional eating; sleep; dietary risk; and body mass index (BMI) have been reported in the current body of literature; however, these constructs interact with each other, and the complex relationships among them are infrequently examined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the complex relationships between these constructs using mediation and moderation analyses stratified by gender. Methods: A cross-sectional study, enrolling university students from the United States (U.S.), the Netherlands, South Korea, Malaysia, Ireland, Ghana, and China, was conducted between October 2020 and January 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Perceived stress; maladaptive eating behaviors including restrained, uncontrolled, and emotional eating; sleep duration and quality; dietary risk; and BMI were assessed using validated questionnaires, which were distributed through an online platform. Results: A total of 1392 students completed the online survey (379 male, 973 female, and 40 who self-identified as “other”). Uncontrolled and emotional eating mediated the relationship between perceived stress and dietary risk for both males and females; higher sleep quality weakened this relationship among female students but not males. Emotional eating mediated the relationship between perceived stress and BMI for both males and females, but higher sleep quality weakened this relationship only among females. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that students in higher education are likely to benefit from interventions to reduce uncontrolled and emotional eating. Programs that improve sleep quality, especially during highly stressful periods, may be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Du
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Mary Adjepong
- Department of Biochemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (M.A.); (F.A.-A.)
| | - Megan Chong Hueh Zan
- Division of Nutrition and Dietetics, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (M.C.H.Z.); (W.C.S.S.)
| | - Min Jung Cho
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Jenifer I. Fenton
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Pao Ying Hsiao
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA 15705, USA;
| | - Laura Keaver
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Institute of Technology Sligo, F91 YW50 Sligo, Ireland;
| | - Heesoon Lee
- Department of Human Services, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA;
| | - Mary-Jon Ludy
- Department of Public and Allied Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA; (M.-J.L.); (W.S.)
| | - Wan Shen
- Department of Public and Allied Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA; (M.-J.L.); (W.S.)
| | - Winnie Chee Siew Swee
- Division of Nutrition and Dietetics, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (M.C.H.Z.); (W.C.S.S.)
| | - Jyothi Thrivikraman
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Felicity Amoah-Agyei
- Department of Biochemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (M.A.); (F.A.-A.)
| | - Emilie de Kanter
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Wenyan Wang
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Robin M. Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-517-353-3408
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Dicken SJ, Mitchell JJ, Newberry Le Vay J, Beard E, Kale D, Herbec A, Shahab L. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Diet Behaviour Among UK Adults: A Longitudinal Analysis of the HEBECO Study. Front Nutr 2022; 8:788043. [PMID: 35096934 PMCID: PMC8793888 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.788043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic restrictions impacted dietary habits during the initial months of the pandemic, but long-term effects are unclear. In this longitudinal study, self-selected UK adults (n = 1,733, 71.1% female, 95.7% white ethnicity) completed three online surveys (May-June, August-September, and November-December 2020, with a retrospective pre-pandemic component in the baseline survey), self-reporting sociodemographics, lifestyle, and behaviours, including high fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) snacks, HFSS meals, and fruit and vegetable (FV) intake. Data were analysed using generalised estimating equations. Monthly HFSS snacks portion intake increased from pre-pandemic levels (48.3) in May-June (57.6, p < 0.001), decreased in August-September (43.7, p < 0.001), before increasing back to pre-pandemic levels in November-December (49.2, p < 0.001). A total of 48.5% self-reported increased [25.9 (95% confidence interval: 24.1, 27.8)] and 47.7% self-reported decreased [24.1 (22.4, 26.0)] monthly HFSS snacks portion intakes in November-December compared with pre-pandemic levels. Monthly HFSS meals portion intake decreased from pre-pandemic levels (7.1) in May-June (5.9, p < 0.001), was maintained in August-September (5.9, p = 0.897), and then increased again in November-December (6.6, p < 0.001) to intakes that remained lower than pre-pandemic levels (p = 0.007). A total of 35.2% self-reported increased [4.8 (4.3, 5.3)] and 44.5% self-reported decreased [5.1 (4.6, 5.6)] monthly HFSS meals portion intakes in November-December compared with pre-pandemic levels. The proportion meeting FV intake recommendations was stable from pre-pandemic through to August-September (70%), but decreased in November-December 2020 (67%, p = 0.034). Increased monthly HFSS snacks intake was associated with female gender, lower quality of life, and - in a time - varying manner - older age and higher HFSS meals intake. Increased monthly HFSS meals intake was associated with female gender, living with adults only, and higher HFSS snacks intake. Reduced FV intake was associated with higher body mass index (BMI) and lower physical activity. These results suggest large interindividual variability in dietary change during the first year of the pandemic, with important public health implications in individuals experiencing persistent increases in unhealthy diet choices, associated with BMI, gender, quality of life, living conditions, physical activity, and other dietary behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J. Dicken
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Joseph Mitchell
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Emma Beard
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitra Kale
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aleksandra Herbec
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical, Educational, and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lion Shahab
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Ala-Karvia U, Góralska-Walczak R, Piirsalu E, Filippova E, Kazimierczak R, Post A, Monakhov V, Mikkola M. COVID-19 Driven Adaptations in the Provision of School Meals in the Baltic Sea Region. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2021.750598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The instability, rapid changes, and restrictions generated by the COVID-19 pandemic tested the provision of school meals in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR). School meal services were affected by factors such as full or partial lockdowns, strict hygiene regimes, lay-offs or staff shortages, stressful working environments, supply shortages, and changes to storing, cooking, and serving models. However, the responses to the COVID-19 crisis were highlighted by innovation, new opportunities, and cooperation. This paper reviews several examples of COVID-19 crisis management at school canteens in five BSR countries [Estonia, Finland, Poland, Russia (Saint Petersburg), and Sweden] between March 2020 and March 2021. The paper reveals the significant operational, logistical, and systemic problems that appeared because of the pandemic; the solutions and adaptations that were developed are also identified. The preparatory processes, logistics, and services that were adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a new school meal provision model—a takeaway model; that includes similar features and unique characteristics across the different countries. Overall, the provision of school meals was carried out successfully in the BSR during the pandemic. Responsible, competent, and innovative professionals used their organizational skills, flexibility, and responsiveness to feed school pupils in a highly restricted and rapidly changing environment. It is expected that several of the COVID-19-driven innovations will remain in use following the pandemic.
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Mehak A, Miller AE, Trolio V, Racine SE. 'Feeling fat' amid the COVID-19 pandemic: Examining the role of emotion dysregulation in the body displacement hypothesis. Eat Behav 2022; 44:101597. [PMID: 35124542 PMCID: PMC8805909 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2022.101597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
'Feeling fat,' the somatic experience of being overweight not entirely explained by objective weight, may occur due to the projection of negative affect onto the body. Individuals may manage 'feeling fat' via eating pathology (e.g., binge eating or dietary restriction) rather than address the source of negative affect. Thus, 'feeling fat' may occur in the absence of adaptive emotion regulation strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased negative affect widely and may potentially contribute to the experience of 'feeling fat' and eating pathology among individuals with emotion dysregulation. This study examined whether emotion dysregulation moderates 'feeling fat's' role as a mechanism underlying the relationship between COVID-19-related distress and eating pathology. This uniqueness of this model to eating pathology was investigated by comparing effects for binge eating and dietary restriction versus anxiety, depression, and problematic alcohol use. Structural equation modelling was used to analyze questionnaire data from 877 participants (77.3% women). 'Feeling fat' explained significant variance in the relationship between COVID-19-related distress and both binge eating and restriction. Emotion dysregulation modulated the strength of these relationships. However, 'feeling fat's role in the relationship between pandemic-related distress and negative psychological outcomes was not unique to eating pathology and did not vary based upon emotion dysregulation. Individuals with elevated emotion dysregulation are more likely to report eating pathology, but not other outcomes, in the context of 'feeling fat'. In contrast, 'feeling fat' underlies the relationship between COVID-19-distress and transdiagnostic psychological outcomes, meaning 'feeling fat' should be considered in risk for psychopathology beyond eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sarah E. Racine
- Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, McGill University, 2001 Avenue McGill College, Room 1411, Montréal QC H3A 1G1, Canada
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The Association of Restrained Eating and Overeating during COVID-19: A Cross-Lagged Model. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124535. [PMID: 34960087 PMCID: PMC8709275 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Widespread overeating has been found during the 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The present study investigated whether pre-pandemic restrained eating (RE) predicted overeating during the pandemic, and further explored the behavioral (mortality threat, negative affect) mechanisms underlying this association. An eight-month longitudinal survey was conducted with a large sample of 616 undergraduates from Southwest university. From September 2019 to April 2020, three measurements were conducted. RE was tested before the pandemic (T1), and data of mortality threat, negative affect, and overeating were collected at the middle (T2) and end of (T3) the COVID-19 crisis in China. The correlation results showed that baseline RE was positively associated with mortality threat, negative affect, and overeating at T2 and T3. Moreover, negative affect and mortality threat were positively correlated with overeating. Results from longitudinal mediation showed that baseline RE would positively predict T3 overeating through T2 negative affect, but not T2 mortality threat. This study supports and extends the counterregulatory eating hypothesis that RE positively predicts future overeating, especially through negative emotions. These findings further reveal the core psychological mechanism underlying this positive RE-overeating relation in the context of COVID-19, indicating that the individuals with higher RE could not cope with negative affect adequately, contributing to more overeating.
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Czepczor-Bernat K, Modrzejewska J, Modrzejewska A, Matusik P. Do COVID-19-Related Stress, Being Overweight, and Body Dissatisfaction Contribute to More Disordered Eating in Polish Women?-A Cluster Analysis Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:13100. [PMID: 34948710 PMCID: PMC8701286 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We hypothesized that women who are overweight, experiencing COVID-19-related stress, and with high body dissatisfaction would have significantly greater disordered eating than those of healthy weight, without stress, and with low body dissatisfaction. Participants (N = 1354 women; Mage= 31.89 years, SD = 11.14) filled in the Contour Drawing Rating Scale, the Emotional Overeating Questionnaire, the Eating Motivation Survey, the Mindful Eating Questionnaire, and a COVID-19-related stress measure and sociodemographic survey. The cluster analysis technique revealed four distinct clusters: (a) Cluster 1 (N = 314): healthy body weight, no COVID-related stress, and low body dissatisfaction (M = 1.19); (b) Cluster 2 (N = 131): overweight, no COVID-related stress, and high body dissatisfaction (M = 2.41); (c) Cluster 3 (N = 597): healthy body weight, COVID-related stress, and low body dissatisfaction (M = 1.27); (d) Cluster 4 (N = 312): overweight, COVID-related stress, and high body dissatisfaction (M = 2.84). Generally, our outcomes partially support our hypothesis, as higher levels of some types of disordered eating were observed in women who were overweight with COVID-related stress and high body dissatisfaction (Cluster 4) as compared with women with healthy body weight, no COVID-related stress, and with low levels of body dissatisfaction (Cluster 1). Our results indicate that both body weight status, as well as COVID-19-related stress and body dissatisfaction, may contribute to the intensity of disordered eating. During future epidemic-related quarantines, this may be an argument in favor of organizing support regarding emotional functioning, body image, and eating behaviors, particularly for the most vulnerable groups-including overweight and obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justyna Modrzejewska
- Institute of Pedagogy, University of Bielsko-Biala, 43-309 Bielsko-Biala, Poland;
| | - Adriana Modrzejewska
- Department of Psychology, School of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 40-055 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Paweł Matusik
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Obesity and Metabolic Bone Diseases, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland;
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Piochi M, Buonocore F, Spampani F, Torri L. Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the perception of home meals and meal-related variables: a large-scale study within the Italian population during the acute phase of the pandemic. Food Qual Prefer 2021; 98:104488. [PMID: 34876781 PMCID: PMC8639481 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2021.104488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Italy was the first European country struck by the COVID-19 epidemic and experienced a national lockdown. This study explored the effect of lockdown on the perception of any meals prepared and/or conducted at home (home meals) and investigated which variables played a role in this. A group of Italians (n=3,060) not suspected/diagnosed as having COVID-19 (18-91 years old; 33% males) completed an online survey during the first lockdown (April 2020). Liking for home meals either increased (51% of the population) or did not vary (43%), while it decreased for only 6% of respondents. Total meal intake similarly either increased (51%) or remained unchanged (33%). Core variables describing meal perception (Liking for meal, Pleasure in meal preparation, Meal duration, Meal Time, Overall food intake, Snack intake) were positively associated with each other. Two clusters with different perceptions of home meals were found, characterised by an increased appreciation (Cl1, 61%) and an unchanged appreciation (Cl2, 39%), respectively. In the acute phase of lockdown, increased meal pleasure was associated with home togetherness (not living alone), cooking with others more often, having high cooking dynamism (use of different kitchen tools, engaging in online food-related activities like using online recipe/website for cooking, use of ready-to-eat meal delivery), and being young, a student or a worker (Cl1). Conversely, Cl2 showed an unchanged meal pleasure, and it was mostly associated with living alone (before and during lockdown), being elderly, retired, widowed, having a low degree of cooking-related activities and dedicating a small weekly budget to food. Variables strictly describing the meal were discussed. Lockdown did not homogenously affect the population in terms of meal pleasure, and high enjoyment of meals was related to high meal involvement. Younger subjects seemed to be more resilient and appreciated meals more due to high cooking dynamism, food-related activities and togetherness. Public health policies could consider these outputs to set up interventions that use meal-dedication activities to increase meal pleasure in vulnerable targets or in subjects experiencing poorly appreciated diets in similar future stressful situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luisa Torri
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Bra, Italy
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Grunert KG, De Bauw M, Dean M, Lähteenmäki L, Maison D, Pennanen K, Sandell MA, Stasiuk K, Stickel L, Tarrega A, Vainio A, Vranken L. No lockdown in the kitchen: How the COVID-19 pandemic has affected food-related behaviours. Food Res Int 2021; 150:110752. [PMID: 34865770 PMCID: PMC8520572 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2021.110752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and especially the lockdowns coming with it have been a disruptive event also for food consumption. In order to study the impact of the pandemic on eating habits, self-reported changes in food-related behaviours were investigated in ten European countries by means of an online survey. A latent class cluster analysis distinguished five clusters and showed that different types of consumers can be distinguished based on how they react to the pandemic as regards their eating habits. While food-related behaviours were resilient for 60% of the sample, another 35% reported more enjoyment in cooking and eating, more time in the kitchen and more family meals. Among those, a slight majority also showed signs of more mindful eating, as indicated by more deliberate choices and increased consumption of healthy food, whereas a slight minority reported more consumption of indulgence food. Only 5% indicated less involvement with food. As the COVID-19 pandemic is a disruptive event, some of these changes may have habit-breaking properties and open up new opportunities and challenges for food policy and food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus G. Grunert
- MAPP Centre, Aarhus University, Denmark,School of Marketing and Communication, University of Vaasa, Finland,Corresponding author at: Fuglesangsallé 4, 8210 Aarhus V, Denmark
| | - Michiel De Bauw
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Moira Dean
- School of Biological Sciences, Queens University Belfast, UK
| | | | | | | | - Mari A. Sandell
- Department of Food and Nutrition, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | - Amparo Tarrega
- Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), Spain
| | - Annukka Vainio
- Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science, Department of Forest Sciences, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Liesbet Vranken
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium
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Ballarotto G, Marzilli E, Cerniglia L, Cimino S, Tambelli R. How Does Psychological Distress Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Internet Addiction and Instagram Addiction in Emerging Adults? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11382. [PMID: 34769897 PMCID: PMC8583668 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
International research has underlined a worrying increase in Internet and Instagram addiction among emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the role played by alexithymia and psychological distress due to COVID-19 has been evidenced, no study has explored their complex relationship in predicting emerging adults' Internet and Instagram addiction. The present study aimed to verify whether peritraumatic distress due to the COVID-19 pandemic mediated the relationship between emerging adults' alexithymia and their Internet/Instagram addiction, in a sample composed of n = 400 Italian emerging adults. Results showed that females had higher peritraumatic distress due to COVID-19 than males, whereas males had higher externally oriented thinking and higher levels of Internet addiction than females. Emerging adults' psychological distress due to COVID-19 significantly mediated the effect of alexithymia on Internet and Instagram addiction. Our findings supported the presence of a dynamic relationship between individual vulnerabilities and the co-occurrence of other psychological difficulties in predicting emerging adults' Internet and Instagram addiction during the pandemic, with important clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ballarotto
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (S.C.); (R.T.)
| | - Eleonora Marzilli
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (S.C.); (R.T.)
| | - Luca Cerniglia
- Faculty of Psychology, International Telematic University Uninettuno, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Silvia Cimino
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (S.C.); (R.T.)
| | - Renata Tambelli
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical & Health Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (S.C.); (R.T.)
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Trajectories of Food Choice Motives and Weight Status of Malaysian Youths during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113752. [PMID: 34836008 PMCID: PMC8620045 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Stay-at-home orders have abruptly altered food purchasing behaviour, dietary habits, and food choice motives. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the trajectory of food choice motives and their associations with the weight status of Malaysian youths in the time of COVID-19. Socio-demographic information and anthropometric measurements were self-reported by the respondents, while the food choice motives were assessed using a validated 38-item food choice questionnaire (FCQ). Of the 1013 Malaysian youths, 48.6% gained weight due to the confinement, with an average weight gain of 3.90 ± 2.92 kg. On the other hand, 47.0% to 73.0% of the youths changed their food choice motives in the time of COVID-19. Of the 10 motives, convenience (48.5%) had the largest percentage increase, followed by weight control (47.0%) and health (45.3%). Moreover, the mean scores of health (t = −3.324, p = 0.001), convenience (t = −5.869, p < 0.001), weight control (t = −7.532, p < 0.001), natural content (t = −5.957, p < 0.001), ethical concern (t = −4.419, p < 0.001) and price (t = −3.737, p < 0.001) were significantly higher during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. Findings from the multinomial regression model revealed that youths highly concerned for weight control were more likely to be in the weight loss category (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.633, Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.230–2.168, p = 0.001). Conversely, those who gained weight due to the pandemic confinement highly valued natural content in foods (AOR = 0.653, CI = 0.481–0.886, p = 0.006) when making their food choices in this unprecedented pandemic. In conclusion, Malaysian youths made healthier food choices to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 infection.
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The Relationship between Psychological Distress during the Second Wave Lockdown of COVID-19 and Emotional Eating in Italian Young Adults: The Mediating Role of Emotional Dysregulation. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11060569. [PMID: 34204480 PMCID: PMC8235082 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the impact of psychological distress experienced during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on emotional eating and to assess the mediating role of emotional dysregulation in a sample of Italian young adults (20-35). A total of 437 participants provided demographical data and were assessed using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, and the Emotional Eating subscale of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Correlational analyses were performed to assess the relationship between continuous variables, while ANOVA was conducted to detect differences between males and females for emotional eating. To assess whether demographic and clinical data predicted emotional eating, hierarchical linear regression was performed. Then, a mediation analysis was conducted to assess whether emotional dysregulation was a mediator between psychological distress and emotional eating. Emotional eating was associated with psychological distress and emotional dysregulation. Moreover, higher levels of emotional eating were found in females than in males. Predictors of emotional eating were sex, psychological distress, and emotional dysregulation. Mediation analyses showed that the indirect effect of psychological distress on emotional eating through emotional dysregulation was significant (b = 0.0069; SE = 0.0024; CI = 0.0024-0.0118), confirming that the relationship between psychological distress and emotional eating was mediated by emotional dysregulation, controlling for sex. The model explained 26.8% (R2 = 0.2680) of the variance. These findings may help to plan and develop psychological interventions aimed at addressing emotional eating in young adults by targeting emotional dysregulation.
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Modrzejewska A, Czepczor-Bernat K, Modrzejewska J, Matusik P. Eating Motives and Other Factors Predicting Emotional Overeating during COVID-19 in a Sample of Polish Adults. Nutrients 2021; 13:1658. [PMID: 34068446 PMCID: PMC8153582 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We hypothesised that the higher levels of emotion-related predictors (eating motive in the form of affect regulation and COVID-19-related stress) would be associated with higher emotional overeating, after accounting for the effects of demographic variables (gender and BMI) and other eating motives (visual- and attitude-related predictors: liking, pleasure, visual appeal; body- and health-related predictors: need and hunger, health, weight control). Participants (N = 868; Mage = 33.53 years, SD = 11.98) completed: the Eating Motivation Survey, the Emotional Overeating Questionnaire, a COVID-19-related stress measure and a socio-demographic survey. The final step of the regression with emotional overeating was significant; affect regulation and COVID-19-related stress were significantly related to emotional overeating (ΔF p < 0.001, Adj. ΔR2 = 0.13). During the COVID-19 pandemic, eating can, on the one hand, help to cope with the current difficult situation and the negative emotions associated with it; on the other hand, frequent use of this tendency can lead to rigid regulation of affect and use of this mechanism as the dominant mechanism. Therefore, limited social contact, related disruptions in daily activities and stress resulting from COVID-19 should generate appropriate interventions, not necessarily focusing only on emotional eating, but also on the resources of the individual. It is worth encouraging specialists to implement alternative methods of contact with their patients, e.g., online.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Justyna Modrzejewska
- Institute of Pedagogy, University of Bielsko-Biala, 43-309 Bielsko-Biala, Poland;
| | - Paweł Matusik
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
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McBride E, Arden MA, Chater A, Chilcot J. The impact of COVID-19 on health behaviour, well-being, and long-term physical health. Br J Health Psychol 2021; 26:259-270. [PMID: 33787000 PMCID: PMC8250322 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily McBride
- Institute of Epidemiology and Health CareUniversity College LondonUK
| | - Madelynne A. Arden
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied PsychologySheffield Hallam UniversityUK
| | - Angel Chater
- Centre for Health, Wellbeing and Behaviour ChangeUniversity of BedfordshireBedfordUK
| | - Joseph Chilcot
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing’s College LondonUK
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Spinelli S, Prescott J, Pierguidi L, Dinnella C, Arena E, Braghieri A, Di Monaco R, Gallina Toschi T, Endrizzi I, Proserpio C, Torri L, Monteleone E. Phenol-Rich Food Acceptability: The Influence of Variations in Sweetness Optima and Sensory-Liking Patterns. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030866. [PMID: 33800789 PMCID: PMC7998421 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of phenol-rich foods is limited by their prominent bitterness and astringency. This issue has been addressed by adding sweet tastes, which suppress bitterness, but this is not a complete solution since individuals also differ in their preference for sweetness. In this study, we aimed at identifying groups of consumers differing in sweetness optima and sensory-liking patterns. To this end, increasing concentrations of sucrose were added to a chocolate pudding base. This allowed us to (1) investigate if individual differences in sensory responses are associated with different sweet liking optima in a product context, (2) define the psychological and oro-sensory profile of sweet liker phenotypes derived using a product context, and (3) assess if individuals differing in sweet liking optima differ also in consumption and liking of phenol-rich foods and beverages as a function of their sensory properties (e.g., sweeter vs. more bitter and astringent products). Individuals (1208; 58.4% women, 18–69 years) were characterised for demographics, responsiveness to 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP), personality traits and attitudes toward foods. Three clusters were identified based on correlations between sensory responses (sweetness, bitterness and astringency) and liking of the samples: liking was positively related to sweetness and negatively to bitterness and astringency in High and Moderate Sweet Likers, and the opposite in Inverted U-Shaped. Differences between clusters were found in age, gender and personality. Furthermore, the Inverted-U Shaped cluster was found to have overall healthier food behaviours and preferences, with higher liking and consumption of phenol-rich vegetables and beverages without added sugar. These findings point out the importance of identifying the individual sensory-liking patterns in order to develop more effective strategies to promote the acceptability of healthy phenol-rich foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Spinelli
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, via Donizetti 6, 50144 Florence, Italy; (J.P.); (L.P.); (C.D.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.M.)
| | - John Prescott
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, via Donizetti 6, 50144 Florence, Italy; (J.P.); (L.P.); (C.D.)
- TasteMatters Research & Consulting, P.O. Box Q1150, QVB Post Office, Sydney 1230, Australia
| | - Lapo Pierguidi
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, via Donizetti 6, 50144 Florence, Italy; (J.P.); (L.P.); (C.D.)
| | - Caterina Dinnella
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, via Donizetti 6, 50144 Florence, Italy; (J.P.); (L.P.); (C.D.)
| | - Elena Arena
- Dipartimento di Agricoltura, Alimentazione e Ambiente (Di3A), University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 100, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Ada Braghieri
- School of Agricultural, Forest, Food, and Environmental Sciences, University of Basilicata, Via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy;
| | - Rossella Di Monaco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy;
| | - Tullia Gallina Toschi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), Alma Mater Studiorum—University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Isabella Endrizzi
- Department of Food Quality and Nutrition, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach (FEM), Via E. Mach 1, 38010 San Michele all’Adige, Italy;
| | - Cristina Proserpio
- Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences (DeFENS), University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Luisa Torri
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Italy;
| | - Erminio Monteleone
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environment and Forestry (DAGRI), University of Florence, via Donizetti 6, 50144 Florence, Italy; (J.P.); (L.P.); (C.D.)
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.M.)
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