Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the diet, lifestyle, and well-being of young Swedes participating in the I.Family study.

Abstract

Introduction: Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused social disruptions that have led to changes in our lives. Young people may be especially susceptible to disruptions during their formative years. Aim: This study aimed to explore the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the diet, lifestyle behaviours, and well-being of young Swedes who participate in the I.Family cohort in Western Sweden. Methods: This longitudinal investigation included self-reported data on diet, lifestyle, and well-being collected during the pre-pandemic and peri-pandemic periods. The significance of changes between the two examinations was assessed using the paired t-test for continuous variables and the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test for categorical variables. Results: The analytic sample consisted of 198 paired observations ranging from 12 to 21 years of age. A significant decrease in physical activity, lower levels of well-being, a reduction in consumption of fruits and vegetables, and a lower proportion of individuals that ate breakfast daily were observed. Besides, consumption of artificially sweetened beverages and alcohol diminished. Moreover, increased sleep time was observed, alongside a lower frequency of eating out. Fewer individuals had lunch with a friend or colleague, and a higher proportion of individuals had lunch with a family member. Conclusion: This study suggests several unfavourable changes in the lives of young Swedes during the peri-pandemic period, but also some positive changes. These findings provide some evidence that young people may need interventions that counter the effects the pandemic regulations have had on their lives and should be further monitored.