Feeding and physical activity in times of pandemic by Sars-Cov2

Analysis in children and adolescents from Gran La Plata

Abstract

Introduction: Due to the isolation promoted in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly in the first stage of Social, Preventive and Mandatory Isolation (ASPO), a large part of the population had to remain at home, implying changes in their lifestyles. daily life. The objective of the study was to know the effects on the eating habits of physical activity of children and adolescents (NNyA) during that
period. Materials and Methods: A self-administered, semi-structured survey was used in a representative sample of households with
children and adolescents who attend state and/or private schools at the initial, primary and secondary levels of the Gran La Plata
agglomeration (La Plata, Berisso and Ensenada). Results: A total of 4,008 surveys were collected, revealing that 60.8% of children and adolescents ate the four main meals, with lower adherence observed at higher educational levels (73.4% in preschool, 64.8% in
primary, and 47.2% in secondary school). Snacking between meals was reported by 75.1%, being more frequent in primary school
children (77.3%). Physical activity was performed by 59.5% during the ASPO, but it decreased in 66.1%, especially affecting secondary school adolescents (78.9%) compared to before the isolation period.
Regarding weight, 49.5% maintained it, 40.1% experienced weight gain, and 5.2% lost weight, with the highest perceived weight gain in primary school children (48.1%). Discussion: The ASPO (Preventive and Mandatory Social Isolation) impacted eating and physical activity habits, with primary school children being the most affected by increased "snacking" and
weight gain. The reduction in physical activity was more pronounced among secondary school adolescents. These findings highlight the need for policies that promote healthy habits from an early age and across all educational levels to mitigate long-term
negative effects.