EFFECTS OF THE COVID-19 BLOCKADE ON FEEDING BEHAVIOR, WEIGHT GAIN AND OBESITY IN PEOPLE OVER 18 YEARS OF AGE: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: The Covid-19 pandemic was an unprecedented event that required the implementation of lockdowns. These measures have led to significant changes in people's routines, consumption and purchasing habits, as well as the emotional state of the population. Objective: To summarize, in the world literature, the effects of the Covid-19 blockade on feeding behavior, weight gain and obesity in people over 18 years of age. Method: Integrative literature review of primary studies published in full in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French between 2020 and 2022. The search was carried out in December 2022 in the Lilacs, MedLine/PubMed, and Capes Periodicals Portal databases. From the selected studies, the following information was extracted: authors, year, country, objective, study design, period, sample characteristics, and main results concerning eating behavior, weight gain, and obesity during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The AXIS tool for observational studies was used to assess methodological quality. Results: 213 studies were identified and 28 were included. Which showed an increase in the practice of cooking at home, resulting in improvements in the quality of the diet; however, there was an increase in appetite, consumption of snacks and ultra-processed foods. Stress led to emotional eating, favoring the intake of foods high in sugar and fat. Weight gain was relevant, especially in overweight and obese individuals. Conclusion: There have been significant changes in feeding behavior that have had an impact on weight gain and obesity.