Dietary Modifications During the Covid-19 Pandemic - A Multi Centric Study from Kerala

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic brought in a new normal which affected the dietary pattern and lifestyle practices of the global population. The Southern State of Kerala in India also went through phases of lockdown and releases, which affected the food availability and accessibility to its population. Kerala is a consumer State and relies on most of its food items from the neighbouring States of India. During the lockdown period, interstate travel was restricted, and this affected the food intake of the population. Changes in dietary practices were observed in all the 14 districts of the State with respect to intake of food items, processed foods, home-made foods. Healthy practices were adopted by a part of the population. Lifestyle practices like physical activity and weight management techniques were pursued by a segment of the respondents. The gender, occupational status, and educational status, location of residence, economic background had an impact on the food intake and the healthy practices followed by the respondents. It was found that the women folk, those residing in rural areas, people with less education, the daily workers and those hailing from the lower strata of society, were more agreeable in adopting healthy practices when compared to the rest of the population. This clearly tells us that education and a high standing in the society does not always translate to nutrition awareness. The present study points towards the need to educate the masses on good nutrition principles and acts as a pointer for further research.