Nutrients · 11 authors, 8 centres
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This systematic review and meta-analysis of 186 studies found a high prevalence of eating-related symptoms, including binge eating, overeating, emotional eating, and weight concerns, in the general population during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. A meta-regression suggested females and younger individuals were at higher risk for weight loss, food restriction, and excessive exercise.
It aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of various eating symptoms and dysfunctional eating behaviours during the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. Central results included a pooled weight gain prevalence of 33%, weight loss prevalence of 20%, and high prevalences of overeating, emotional eating, and shape/weight concerns. Meta-regression indicated that females and younger individuals were more at risk for weight loss, food restriction, and excessive exercise. The study also found correlations between psychological distress and overeating, emotional eating, and weight gain. Limitations include the predominance of cross-sectional designs, most data being from the first pandemic wave, a potential gender imbalance in participants, and significant publication bias for some outcomes. The findings suggest the pandemic had a considerable impact on eating behaviours in the general population, but more longitudinal research is needed to assess long-term effects.
