Abstract
Background
During stressful situations such as pandemic-associated lockdowns, individuals' diets may change towards (cariogenic) "comfort food". This study assessed the dietary patterns in lockdown in Colombia population.
Methods
A cross-sectional online survey was designed. A convenience sample 489 adults was drawn, with 50% of them being in COVID-19 lockdown and the other being not or only partially in lockdown. The questionnaire collected data about the type and frequency of food consumed, with a special focus on cariogenic (i.e. rich in free sugars and starches) food. Descriptive analyses were performed, and a Generalized Linear Model was estimated to predict the frequency of cariogenic diet consumption in this period of time.
Results
Sweet whole wheat bread (38.2%, P= 0.005), flavored milk (26.4%, P= 0.002), sugar-sweetened bubble gums (39.8%, P= 0.001), toffees (35.4%, P= 0.004), soft candies (e. g. gums, etc.) (35.4%, P= 0.018), chocolates (55.3%, P= 0.017) filled donuts (28.5%, P= 0.013) or grapes (51.2%, P= 0.002), among others were significantly more consumed in lockdown. Multivariable generalized linear modeling showed being single, having children and being in lockdown were significantly associated with higher frequency of cariogenic food consumption.
Conclusions
Lockdown was found to be associated with detrimentally altered food consumption patterns and, specifically, a more cariogenic diet. Healthcare professionals should consider this when re-opening services and political decision-makers may want to reflect on unwarranted side effect of lockdown.
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