01 Jun Another Side Effect of Quarantine: Weight Gain

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Zachary Zeigler PhD
College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
Grand Canyon University. Phoenix, AZ 

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Response: We already know that during the COVID-19 pandemic, children alter eating, sleep, and activity behaviors in a manner that promotes weight gain.  Additionally, the unprecedented self-quarantine mandate during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread concern that adults may gain weight during the current pandemic.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?

Response: Within our sample we found that roughly 22% of adults report having gained weight during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Lack of sleep, decreased physical activity, snacking after dinner, eating in response to stress, and eating because of the appearance and smell of food are behaviors linked to weight gain during self-quarantine.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: The current study provides practical recommendations to reduce risk for weight gain during future circumstances that may require self-quarantine. These are: get the recommended amount of sleep, do not snack after dinner, practice dietary restraint, alter stress coping mechanisms, and maintain an exercise regimen.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?

Response: Our study was conducted at the beginning of the quarantine.  Follow up research should be done to see how reported weight gain has changed and if peop[le report losing the gained weight. 

Citation:

Self-quarantine and weight gain related risk factors during the COVID-19 pandemic

Zeigler Zachary Brianna Forbes Brianna Lopez Garrett Pedersen Jade Welty Alyssa Deyo Mikayla Kerekes
Obesity Research & Clinical Practice
Available online 21 May 2020

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Last Updated on June 1, 2020 by Marie Benz MD FAAD