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Nutrition Interactions with COVID-19

These articles provide information on what is currently known about the nutrition interactions with the virus and its effects on the human body. A strong focus is also to understand how nutritional circumstances or interventions might mitigate the infections’ harm, both acutely and in the long term. The collection also showcases, and welcomes, good quality evidence studying the combination of diet and lifestyle factors that may strengthen immunity and susceptibility to the virus.
 

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  • Study Status: Published
  • Study Type: Review
  • Study Location: Zimbabwe

Study Title
Effect of the COVID-19-induced lockdown on nutrition, health and lifestyle patterns among adults in Zimbabwe.

Principal Investigator
Tonderayi Mathew Matsungo, Prosper Chopera.

Affiliation
University of Zimbabwe.

Start Date
June 2020.

End Date
August 2020.

Study Objective
To investigate the impacts of the COVID-19-induced lockdown on nutrition, physical activity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and health service access among adults in Zimbabwe.

Short Abstract
The study assessed the effect of the COVID-19-induced lockdown on the nutrition and lifestyle habits of adults in Zimbabwe. Findings indicated a significant rise in food prices, reduced physical activity, increased weight gain, and elevated stress and anxiety levels. Furthermore, the study highlighted challenges in accessing health services during the lockdown, emphasizing the need for policy changes to address food insecurity and health disparities.

Study Design
Descriptive cross-sectional study using an online survey administered via SurveyMonkey.

Population
Adults aged 18 years and above living in Zimbabwe.

Sample Size
507 participants.

Inclusion Criteria
Adults aged 18 years and older residing in Zimbabwe.

Exclusion Criteria
None specified.

Intervention/Exposure
Self-reported dietary habits, physical activity, body image perceptions, smoking, alcohol consumption, screen time, and access to health services.

Outcome Measures

  • Food price increase
  • Physical activity reduction
  • Increased generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) symptoms
  • Weight gain and dietary changes
  • Challenges in accessing health services

Funding Source
No specific grant declared.

Collaborating Institutions
University of Zimbabwe.

Ethics Approval
Approved by the Medical Research Council of Zimbabwe (MRCZ/B/1920).

Publication Status
Published in BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health, September 2020.

Keywords
COVID-19, lockdown, nutrition, physical activity, anxiety, Zimbabwe.

Data Collection Methods
Online survey using structured questions regarding demographics, diet, physical activity, stress and anxiety, and lifestyle changes.

Primary Data Availability
Available upon request.

Contact Information
Dr. Tonderayi Mathew Matsungo, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..