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Matteucci I, Corsi M. Adolescents' attitudes, habits, identity and social support in relation to physical activity after the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11035. [PMID: 38745043 PMCID: PMC11094044 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60548-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This study focuses on adolescents' cognitive processes, behaviors and social support (SS) as they relate to physical activity (PA) before and after the pandemic. The aims of the study were: (1) to investigate the changes in adolescents' engagement in moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and examine the changes in PA-related attitudes and behaviors before and after the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) to analyze the correlations between the significant changes that were found, PA engagement, and SS. The survey targeted third-year middle school students of Italian nationality, attending male and female mixed classes, residents in urban, periphery and sub-urban areas, living in families with different incomes, and different habits of engaging in PA. A longitudinal study was developed using a standardized questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered in April-May 2023 to a sample of 952 students aged 11/14 residing in the Marche region in Central Italy. Increasing values were found in the post-COVID-19 phase for all the cognitive processes and attitudes, in particular, those regarding habits (0.66 vs 0.50, + 32%) and identity (0.70 vs 0.55, + 27%) related to PA. Significant correlations were found between these values and VPA engagement and between the values of the same indicators and SS (p < 0.01). The strongest relationship was found with the dimension of identity (r = 0.51; r = 054).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Matteucci
- Department of Communication Sciences, International Studies and Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy.
| | - Mario Corsi
- Department of Communication Sciences, International Studies and Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029, Urbino, PU, Italy
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Garcia MC, Paravidino VB, Lopes CDS, Mediano MFF, Gonçalves TR, de Oliveira AJ, Sichieri R. Sleep duration and quality during the COVID-19 pandemic and the association with physical activity and screen time among Brazilian college students. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e24035. [PMID: 38174842 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a result of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, changes in sleep patterns have been observed in many countries, as well as changes in physical activity and screen time. The objective was to investigate sleep duration and quality during the COVID-19 pandemic and its association with physical activity and screen time. METHODS Cross-sectional study with students from a University in Rio de Janeiro who answered an online questionnaire between August 2020 and March 2021. Physical activity was assessed using IPAQ-SF. Sleep was investigated based on questions about duration and sleep quality change, and screen time through self-reported questions. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to assess the association between physical activity and screen time with sleep duration and quality. Secondary analyses investigated the influence of the isolation time on this association. The confounding factors used were diagnosis of COVID-19, time of isolation, anxiety, depression, skin color, and gender. RESULTS A total of 771 college students with a mean age of 24.5 years (±8.6) answered the questionnaire. About 75% reported more than 8 h of screen time per day and 49.8% were physically inactive. Regarding sleep, 54.9% had worsening sleep, while 40.6% had inadequate sleep duration during the pandemic. Physical activity was associated with improved sleep quality (Odds ratio (OR) 1.72; confidence interval (95% CI) 1.05-2.97). Also, physically active students who spent more than 14 weeks in social isolation demonstrated improved sleep quality (OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.02-3.78) compared to physically inactive individuals. No association was observed for sleep duration. No association was observed between screen time and sleep quality, or sleep duration. CONCLUSION During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was considerable worsening of sleep quality, and physical activity was positively associated with improved sleep quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magno Conceição Garcia
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine Hésio Cordeiro, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vitor Barreto Paravidino
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine Hésio Cordeiro, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Naval School, Brazilian Navy, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia de Souza Lopes
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine Hésio Cordeiro, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Tatiana Rehder Gonçalves
- Institute of Public Health Studies, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aldair José de Oliveira
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, Brazil
| | - Rosely Sichieri
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine Hésio Cordeiro, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Filiatrault M, Leblay L, Guay V, Desmarais C, Garnier A, Larose S, Litalien D, Mercier C, Saulais L, Drouin-Chartier JP. Relationship between COVID-19 pandemic-related experienced stress and lifestyle habits among university students from Québec, Canada. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2024. [PMID: 38518265 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Whether COVID-19-related experienced stress influenced lifestyle habits remains to be thoroughly evaluated among university students. This study examined the relationship between COVID-19-related experienced stress and subsequent lifestyle habits among undergraduate students. This cross-sectional study included 708 undergraduate students from Université Laval (Québec, Canada) participating in the Expériences Pandémiques (ExPan) cohort. Data on COVID-19-related experienced stress and lifestyle were self-reported using a questionnaire completed between February and April of 2022. A stress index (SI) was computed by summing scores associated with 31 situational statements related to the pandemic (e.g., not being able to see friends, dealing with job loss). A healthy lifestyle score (HLS) ranging from zero to seven was calculated based on seven lifestyle habits: moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, sleep quality, fruit and vegetable intake, tobacco and electronic cigarette use, alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and hard or sedative-hypnotic drugs use. In multivariable-adjusted models, a negative association between the SI and the HLS was found (β10% increment SI = -0.23, 95% CI = -0.30, -0.16 HLS point; P < 0.0001). The SI was also negatively associated with sleep quality, and fruit and vegetable consumption, while being positively associated with at-risk alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and hard or sedative-hypnotic drug use. Subgroup analyses suggested a negative relationship between the SI and HLS among participants who did not receive academic accommodations (e.g., additional time for evaluations, personal notetaker), but not those who received such accommodations. This study suggests that COVID-19-related experienced stress was negatively associated with healthy lifestyle habits in this cohort of undergraduate students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Filiatrault
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Lise Leblay
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Valérie Guay
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Desmarais
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale (Cirris), Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Adèle Garnier
- Faculty of Forestry, Geography and Geomatics, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Simon Larose
- Research Group on Psychosocial Maladjustment in Children, Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - David Litalien
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Catherine Mercier
- Centre interdisciplinaire de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale (Cirris), Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Laure Saulais
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Department of Agri-food Economics and Consumer Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Drouin-Chartier
- Centre NUTRISS - Nutrition, santé et société, Institute on Nutrition and Functional Foods, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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Pfeifer D, Rešetar J, Šteković M, Czlapka-Matyasik M, Verbanac D, Gajdoš Kljusurić J. Diet Quality and Its Association with Lifestyle and Dietary Behaviors among Croatian Students during Two COVID-19 Lockdowns. Foods 2023; 12:2532. [PMID: 37444271 DOI: 10.3390/foods12132532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aims to assess the diet quality, the relationship between diet quality and lifestyle, and the association of diet quality with body mass index and students' field of study during COVID-19 lockdown periods (spring and winter) in 2020. Datasets were collected via an anonymous online self-reported questionnaire distributed during two time periods using social media. A total of 1939 Croatian students (82.4% women and 17.6% men) completed the questionnaire. Diet quality was assessed using the pro-healthy diet index (pHDI) and non-healthy diet index (nHDI). An increase in diet quality was noted during both lockdown periods but was lower during the winter lockdown. Cooking for oneself was associated with a high level of pHDI, while ordering or buying ready-to-eat food was linked to a low level of pHDI. Additionally, a decrease in screen time and increased physical activity was associated with high pHDI values. Furthermore, during both lockdown periods, students with a BMI above 30 kg/m2 had the highest nHDI values compared to other students. Although positive changes were found during both lockdown periods, they were less pronounced throughout the winter lockdown. Further studies are needed to elucidate the real impact of these changes in the post-COVID period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danijela Pfeifer
- Faculty of Food Technology and Biotechnology, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Josip Rešetar
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martin Šteković
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Donatella Verbanac
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Contreras DA, Williams E, Tucker RM. Equivalent Improvements in Sleep Duration and Sleep Quality Regardless of Program Delivery Modality: The SLeep Education for Everyone Program (SLEEP). Clocks Sleep 2023; 5:226-233. [PMID: 37092430 PMCID: PMC10123633 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep5020018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep issues are pervasive, and treatment can be difficult to access, if available at all. The purpose of this study was to test whether the delivery modality (online vs. in person) of the SLeep Education for Everyone Program (SLEEP) influenced programmatic outcomes. A total of 60 participants completed the study, 28 in the online group and 32 in the in-person group. Across all participants, SLEEP improved sleep duration, sleep quality, and sleep hygiene behaviors (p < 0.001 for all). When comparing delivery modality, sleep duration and quality improved similarly between groups; however, sleep hygiene behaviors improved more in the in-person group (p = 0.033). Sleep hygiene scores did not correlate with sleep duration or quality after the program. Based on these findings, SLEEP appears to be equally effective in improving sleep duration and quality when delivered online or in person. These findings suggest that SLEEP can be delivered based on the organization's and participant's resources, needs, and preferred style of interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn A Contreras
- Michigan State University Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | | | - Robin M Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Doak S, Kearney JM, McCormack JM, Keaver L. The relationship between diet and lifestyle behaviours in a sample of higher education students; a cross-sectional study. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 54:293-299. [PMID: 36963876 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Transitioning into higher education (HE) impacts health behaviours. Poor dietary and lifestyle behaviours may correlate and increase risk of co-morbidities. The introduction of the Okanagan Charter detailed the important role of health promotion within a HE setting. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours of students attending HE. METHODS Full-time students, aged 18+, were eligible to participate in this online cross-sectional study. Self-reported questions were asked in relation to demographics, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and COVID-19. A food frequency questionnaire measured dietary quality along with tools assessing alcohol use, sleep quality, perceived stress, and physical activity. Statistical analyses were performed using chi-square, one-way ANOVA, independent sample t-tests, Pearson's correlation, and multivariate linear regression. RESULTS Evidence of a correlation between poor diet quality and having a higher BMI (p = 0.040), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), poorer sleep quality (p = 0.003), higher stress levels (p = 0.006) and smoking (p = 0.001) was found. Low fruit and vegetable consumption were associated with higher BMI (p = 0.013), higher alcohol consumption (p = <0.001), lower physical activity levels (p = 0.006), higher stress levels (p = <0.001), smoking (p = <0.001) and being male (p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS This study provides data on the association between dietary quality and lifestyle behaviours among HE students and will inform healthy campus initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Doak
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Atlantic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - John M Kearney
- School of Biological and Health Sciences, Technological University Dublin, Dublin City Campus, Grangegorman, Dublin 7, Ireland
| | - Jacqueline M McCormack
- Vice President for Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Online Development, Atlatnic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - Laura Keaver
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Atlantic Technological University, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland.
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7
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Van Laren A, Drießen M, Rasa S, Massar K, Ten Hoor GA. Nutritional changes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid scoping review on the impact of psychological factors. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2023; 74:124-187. [PMID: 36823035 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2023.2180613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 and the resulting measures to curb the spread of the virus have significantly changed our lives, including our nutritional choices. In this rapid scoping review an overview is provided of what psychological factors may be associated with peoples' eating behaviour during COVID-19 restrictions. Relevant literature was identified using PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL and MEDLINE databases from 2019 onwards. For included studies, information on study characteristics, eating behaviours, and psychological factors were extracted. 118 articles were included, representing 30 countries. Findings indicated that most people consumed more and unhealthy food in times of COVID-19 restrictions, while some consumed less but often for the wrong reasons. Several psychological factors, related to (1) affective reactions, (2) anxiety, fear and worriers, (3) stress and (4) subjective and mental wellbeing were found to be associated with this increase in food consumption. These outcomes may help to be better inform future interventions, and with that, to be better prepared in case of future lockdown scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthea Van Laren
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mona Drießen
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sophia Rasa
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Karlijn Massar
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Gill A Ten Hoor
- Department Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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DeShaw KJ, Lansing JE, Perez ML, Ellingson LD, Welk GJ. Effects of a peer health coaching program on college student lifestyle behaviors. J Am Coll Health 2023:1-8. [PMID: 36595662 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2155473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Health coaching (HC) may promote healthy behaviors in incoming college students. Participants: 187 undergraduate students (76% female; age 18.6 ± 1.6) were recruited to participate in a peer HC program. Methods: Participants received four HC sessions in eight-weeks to work toward self-selected goals of physical activity (PA), diet, or stress management. PA was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short-Form, diet with the Eating Habits Confidence Survey, and stress with the Perceived Stress Scale. Results: Repeated measures ANOVAs investigated lifestyle behavior changes in 130 participants. Significant effects of time were reported, with a 39.6% gain in PA, 9.9% increase in dietary habit, and 16.3% decline in stress levels with moderate to large effect sizes (ηp2: 0.07-0.17; p< 0.01). Conclusion: The peer HC model promoted healthy lifestyles in college students. Additional research is needed to understand the effects of HC specifically for each goal, and student reactions to peer-led HC.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J DeShaw
- Kinesiology Program, Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa, USA
| | - J E Lansing
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - M L Perez
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - L D Ellingson
- Division of Health & Exercise Science, Western Oregon University, Monmouth, Oregon, USA
| | - G J Welk
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, USA
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Martínez-Líbano J, Torres-Vallejos J, Oyanedel JC, González-Campusano N, Calderón-Herrera G, Yeomans-Cabrera MM. Prevalence and variables associated with depression, anxiety, and stress among Chilean higher education students, post-pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1139946. [PMID: 37065901 PMCID: PMC10097937 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1139946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mental health among university students is a public health problem in Chile, understanding that this population is susceptible to mental disorders. Objective The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and variables influencing depression, anxiety, and stress in Chilean university students. Method A representative sample (n = 1,062) of Chilean university students and a cross-sectional study design were used. Bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression were performed to identify risk factors associated with symptomatology. They were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A questionnaire with sociodemographic variables was applied in November 2022, in addition to the depression anxiety stress scale (DASS-21), instruments with excellent reliability in this population (α = 0.955; ω = 0.956). On the other hand, the Questionnaire of Problematic Alcohol and Drug Consumption (DEP-ADO) was applied. A descriptive analysis was performed, followed by bivariate analysis and multiple logistic regression using SPSS version 25. The variables showed a value of p <0.05; they were declared statistically significant in the final model. Odds ratios (OR) were adjusted to a 95% confidence interval (95% CI), which was used to determine the independent predictors. Results The prevalence of mental health problems in this population was high, with depressive symptoms in 63.1% of the sample; 69.2% with anxiety; 57% with stress; 27.4% with problematic alcohol consumption; and 14.9% with inappropriate marijuana consumption. Some 10.1% of the sample reported daily medication with antidepressants and/or anxiolytics. Concerning significant variables for depression, these were: being female, belonging to sexual, not having children, having problematic marijuana use, and using prescription drugs. Concerning anxiety, the significant variables were being a woman, belonging to sexual minorities, being an adolescent, and consuming prescription medication. Finally, concerning stress, the significant variables were being a woman, belonging to sexual minorities, being a student dedicated exclusively to academic activities, and taking prescription medication. Conclusion Chilean university students presented a high prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress, where being female and belonging to sexual minorities seem to be the variables that have the greatest impact on susceptibility to mental health problems. These results should call the attention of political and university authorities in Chile to improve this population's mental health and quality of life since they are the following professional generation of our country.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan C. Oyanedel
- Facultad de Educación y Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | | | | | - María-Mercedes Yeomans-Cabrera
- Facultad de Salud y Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de las Américas, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: María-Mercedes Yeomans-Cabrera,
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Amoako M, Amoah-Agyei F, Mensah GO, Du C, Sergin S, Fenton JI, Tucker RM. Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Behaviors of Higher Education Students in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:16442. [PMID: 36554322 PMCID: PMC9778950 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Stressful events can significantly impact health behaviors of tertiary students in various ways. Many studies reported adverse alterations in health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is limited knowledge about students from sub-Saharan African countries. Therefore, this study aimed to assess effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health behaviors of Ghanaian tertiary students, with an emphasis on the association between sleep and other health behaviors. A cross-sectional study with eligible tertiary students from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana (n = 129) was conducted. An online survey assessed quality and duration of sleep, financial stress, dietary risk, alcohol misuse, and physical exercise using validated tools. Health behaviors did not differ by gender. The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected health behaviors for many students including dietary intake (20.2%), sleep quality (20.2%) and duration (81.4%), alcohol consumption (3.1%), exercise frequency (4.1%), and exercise intensity (38%). Shorter sleep duration was linked with greater alcohol misuse scores (p < 0.05). A majority of the students (56%) had increased financial stress during the pandemic. This study contributes important insights into the effects that stressful events such as a pandemic have on the health of higher education students in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Amoako
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana
| | - Felicity Amoah-Agyei
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana
| | - Gideon Okyere Mensah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana
| | - Chen Du
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, 469 Wilson Rd., East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Selin Sergin
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, 469 Wilson Rd., East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jenifer I. Fenton
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, 469 Wilson Rd., East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Robin M. Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, 469 Wilson Rd., East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Jahrami HA, Alhaj OA, Humood AM, Alenezi AF, Fekih-Romdhane F, AlRasheed MM, Saif ZQ, Bragazzi NL, Pandi-Perumal SR, BaHammam AS, Vitiello MV. Sleep disturbances during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. Sleep Med Rev 2022; 62:101591. [PMID: 35131664 PMCID: PMC8782754 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2022.101591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the extent of sleep disturbances during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eleven databases and six preprint repositories were searched for the period from November 1, 2019, to July 15, 2021. The DerSimonian and Laird method was used to develop random-effect meta-analyses. Two hundred and fifty studies comprising 493,475 participants from 49 countries were included. During COVID-19, the estimated global prevalence of sleep disturbances was 40.49% [37.56; 43.48%]. Bayesian meta-analysis revealed an odds of 0.68 [0.59; 0.77] which translates to a rate of approximately 41%. This provides reassurance that the estimated rate using classical meta-analysis is robust. Six major populations were identified; the estimated prevalence of sleep problem was 52.39% [41.69; 62.88%] among patients infected with COVID-19, 45.96% [36.90; 55.30%] among children and adolescents, 42.47% [37.95; 47.12%] among healthcare workers, 41.50% [32.98; 50.56%] among special populations with healthcare needs, 41.16% [28.76; 54.79%] among university students, and 36.73% [32.32; 41.38%] among the general population. Sleep disturbances were higher during lockdown compared to no lockdown, 42.49% versus 37.97%. Four in every ten individuals reported a sleep problem during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients infected with the disease, children, and adolescents appeared to be the most affected groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitham A Jahrami
- Ministry of Health, Bahrain; College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain.
| | - Omar A Alhaj
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Science, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ali M Humood
- College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain
| | - Ahmad F Alenezi
- College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain
| | - Feten Fekih-Romdhane
- The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Psychiatry Department "Ibn Omrane", Tunisia; Tunis El Manar University, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Maha M AlRasheed
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal
- Somnogen Canada Inc., College Street, Toronto, Canada; Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ahmed S BaHammam
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University Sleep Disorders Center, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia; The Strategic Technologies Program of the National Plan for Sciences and Technology and Innovation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michael V Vitiello
- Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine, and Biobehavioral Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-6560, United States
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12
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Gavriluță C, Dalban CM, Ioan BG. Educational, Emotional, and Social Impact of the Emergency State of COVID-19 on Romanian University Students. IJERPH 2022; 19:ijerph19073990. [PMID: 35409670 PMCID: PMC8997823 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a global impact at the social, economic, cultural, and political levels. Education is one of the areas that experienced a sudden change during the COVID-19 pandemic that affected both students and teachers worldwide. Thus, the aim of our research was to analyze the educational, emotional, and social impact of the period of the emergency state (16 March 2020–15 May 2020) imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic on Romanian university students. Materials and Methods: We conducted a questionnaire-based survey among Romanian university students at the national level. Results: Our study showed that students accepted online education only as a form of compromise in relation to the epidemiological situation. However, they were affected by the diminished contact with the university and their colleagues and the lack of a regular routine. Emotionally, the participants experienced feelings of loneliness, panic, fear, aggressiveness, and intolerance due to the lack of cultural activities, the struggle with the usual routine, and the restriction of communication and movement. Socially, the relationships with friends and university colleagues were affected; many students returned home to their parents, who supported them during the lockdown. As a general finding, our study describes a social category that felt the full effects of isolation during the emergency state but still managed to cope with the situation by mobilizing a number of specific resources: family, intellectual and cultural concerns, and faith. Conclusions: The emergency state imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic has been a special experience in the lives of Romanian students. Its dramatism was tempered well by an effective support mechanism provided by social ties, intellectual formation, and a certain religiosity. This has produced good resilience among students, but also in the communities they belong to.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gavriluță
- Department of Sociology and Social Work Department, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Costel Marian Dalban
- Department of Sociology and Social Work Department, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence:
| | - Beatrice Gabriela Ioan
- Department of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
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Chu YH, Li YC. The Impact of Online Learning on Physical and Mental Health in University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19. [PMID: 35270659 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Higher education organizations have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. During school closures, online teaching and learning has become a new routine that may lead to changes in lifestyles and adversely affect university students’ health. Therefore, this study was to understand the potential impact of online learning on physical and mental health by investigating the differences in physical activity, psychological distress, and student life stress in Taiwanese university students between the in-class learning and online learning periods. A total of 181 students were recruited from a local university. All participants were requested to complete an online survey and self-report physical activity, psychological distress, and life stress in the in-class learning and online learning periods, respectively. The results indicated a significant reduction in physical activity of various intensities (p < 0.05). Specifically, male university students showed a greater decrease in vigorous physical activity compared to their female peers. Yet, there was no significant increase in psychological distress and life stress from the in-class learning period to the online learning period. In summary, physical activity drastically reduces during the online learning period in Taiwanese university students. Notably, male students may be at greater risk of insufficient participation in vigorous physical activity.
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14
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Du C, Adjepong M, Zan MCH, Cho MJ, Fenton JI, Hsiao PY, Keaver L, Lee H, Ludy MJ, Shen W, Swee WCS, Thrivikraman J, Amoah-Agyei F, de Kanter E, Wang W, Tucker RM. Gender Differences in the Relationships between Perceived Stress, Eating Behaviors, Sleep, Dietary Risk, and Body Mass Index. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14051045. [PMID: 35268020 PMCID: PMC8912409 DOI: 10.3390/nu14051045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Obesity is a growing epidemic among university students, and the high levels of stress reported by this population could contribute to this issue. Singular relationships between perceived stress; engagement in restrained, uncontrolled, and emotional eating; sleep; dietary risk; and body mass index (BMI) have been reported in the current body of literature; however, these constructs interact with each other, and the complex relationships among them are infrequently examined. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to explore the complex relationships between these constructs using mediation and moderation analyses stratified by gender. Methods: A cross-sectional study, enrolling university students from the United States (U.S.), the Netherlands, South Korea, Malaysia, Ireland, Ghana, and China, was conducted between October 2020 and January 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Perceived stress; maladaptive eating behaviors including restrained, uncontrolled, and emotional eating; sleep duration and quality; dietary risk; and BMI were assessed using validated questionnaires, which were distributed through an online platform. Results: A total of 1392 students completed the online survey (379 male, 973 female, and 40 who self-identified as “other”). Uncontrolled and emotional eating mediated the relationship between perceived stress and dietary risk for both males and females; higher sleep quality weakened this relationship among female students but not males. Emotional eating mediated the relationship between perceived stress and BMI for both males and females, but higher sleep quality weakened this relationship only among females. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that students in higher education are likely to benefit from interventions to reduce uncontrolled and emotional eating. Programs that improve sleep quality, especially during highly stressful periods, may be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Du
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Mary Adjepong
- Department of Biochemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (M.A.); (F.A.-A.)
| | - Megan Chong Hueh Zan
- Division of Nutrition and Dietetics, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (M.C.H.Z.); (W.C.S.S.)
| | - Min Jung Cho
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Jenifer I. Fenton
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Pao Ying Hsiao
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA 15705, USA;
| | - Laura Keaver
- Department of Health and Nutritional Science, Institute of Technology Sligo, F91 YW50 Sligo, Ireland;
| | - Heesoon Lee
- Department of Human Services, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA;
| | - Mary-Jon Ludy
- Department of Public and Allied Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA; (M.-J.L.); (W.S.)
| | - Wan Shen
- Department of Public and Allied Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA; (M.-J.L.); (W.S.)
| | - Winnie Chee Siew Swee
- Division of Nutrition and Dietetics, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia; (M.C.H.Z.); (W.C.S.S.)
| | - Jyothi Thrivikraman
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Felicity Amoah-Agyei
- Department of Biochemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (M.A.); (F.A.-A.)
| | - Emilie de Kanter
- Global Public Health, Leiden University College, 2595 DG The Hague, The Netherlands; (M.J.C.); (J.T.); (E.d.K.)
| | - Wenyan Wang
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
| | - Robin M. Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (J.I.F.); (W.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-517-353-3408
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15
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Du C, Hsiao PY, Ludy M, Tucker RM. Relationships between Dairy and Calcium Intake and Mental Health Measures of Higher Education Students in the United States: Outcomes from Moderation Analyses. Nutrients 2022; 14:775. [PMID: 35215428 PMCID: PMC8877188 DOI: 10.3390/nu14040775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The prevalence of mental health concerns among university students in the United States (U.S.) continues to increase, while current treatments, including medication and counseling, present shortcomings. Higher dairy and calcium intakes are associated with protective effects on mental health; however, previous studies have focused on investigating singular relationships between dairy and calcium intakes and mental health measures. A more complex exploration of these relationships is warranted to better examine whether increasing dairy and calcium intakes could serve as an intervention to improve mental health. The present study sought to further characterize the relationships between dairy and calcium intake, perceived stress, and a variety of mental health measures using linear regression and moderation analyses. Methods: The present cross-sectional study involved students studying at three large U.S. universities, and data collection occurred from April to May 2020 when students were learning remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey comprising validated tools was distributed among students to assess dairy and calcium intake, perceived stress, anxiety, negative and positive moods, rumination, and resilience, sleep quality and duration, dietary risk, and physical activity. Results: A total of 1233 students completed the study. Higher dairy and calcium intake was coincident with lower perceived stress and higher positive mood scores, while higher calcium intake was also coincident with lower anxiety, rumination, and higher resilience scores. Additionally, as calcium intake increased, the relationship between perceived stress and anxiety and the relationship between perceived stress and negative mood weakened. Dairy intake did not have this effect. Conclusions: Based on the results, and considering that calcium is a shortfall nutrient, universities should consider initiating programs and public health campaigns to promote dairy and calcium intake among this population.
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16
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Doak S, Kearney J, Mccormack J, Keaver L. The impact of COVID-19 on dietary and lifestyle behaviours in a sample of Irish higher education students. Proc Nutr Soc 2022; 81:E44. [DOI: 10.1017/s0029665122000441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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17
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Eleftheriou A, Rokou A, Arvaniti A, Nena E, Steiropoulos P. Sleep Quality and Mental Health of Medical Students in Greece During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Public Health 2021; 9:775374. [PMID: 34869189 PMCID: PMC8639533 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.775374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background-Aim: Medical students have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to their educational program, which comprises theoretical knowledge and also clinical duties, making them vulnerable to viral exposures and possibly affecting their everyday life. The aim of this study was to explore changes in sleep and mental health parameters among medical students in Greece during the second year of the pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study comprised students of all medical schools in Greece (n = 7), using an anonymous online survey. Participants completed the following questionnaires: Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Statistical analysis was conducted with the use of SPSS v.26 (IBM SPSS, Armonk NY, USA). Results: Out of the 562 received responses, 559 met the inclusion criteria. The largest proportion of the respondents came from 4th-year (27.8%) and the majority of the sample were females (69.8%). Only 5.9% of the participants reported having been infected by SARS-COV-2. Most of the respondents experienced insomnia (65.9%, mean AIS score: 7.59 ± 4.24), poor sleep quality (52.4%, mean PSQI score: 6.6 ± 3.25) and increased fatigue (48.5%, mean 35.82 ± 11.74). Moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety (mean 9.04 ± 5.66) and depression (mean 9.36 ± 6.15) were noted. Suicidal ideation was found in 16.7% of the sample, while use of sleeping pills in the previous month was reported by 8.8% (n = 47). Further analysis revealed independent associations between sleep and mental health parameters. Higher AIS score was associated with greater FSS score; higher PSQI scores with higher GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores. Additionally, female students were found to be significantly more affected than males by the COVID-19 pandemic, displaying higher levels of insomnia, sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression. In addition, those with a history of COVID-19 infection or in close proximity with a positive case reported significantly more significant post-traumatic symptoms in IES-COVID-19 questionnaire. Conclusions: In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, prevalence of sleep and mental health disorders among Greek medical students is significant, highlighting the need for better surveillance of students' wellbeing and subsequent counseling, with special focus on female students and other affected groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Eleftheriou
- Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Rokou
- Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Arvaniti
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Evangelia Nena
- Laboratory of Social Medicine, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Paschalis Steiropoulos
- Department of Pulmonology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece,*Correspondence: Paschalis Steiropoulos
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18
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Florea C, Topalidis P, Hauser T, Angerer M, Kurapov A, Beltran Leon CA, Soares Brandão D, Schabus M. Sleep during COVID-19 lockdown: A cross-cultural study investigating job system relevance. Biochem Pharmacol 2021; 191:114463. [PMID: 33577893 PMCID: PMC7872856 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2021.114463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Our study aimed to assess the change in the sleep patterns during the Coronavirus lockdown in five regions (Austria/Germany, Ukraine, Greece, Cuba and Brazil), using online surveys, translated in each language. Part of the cohort (age 25-65, well-educated) was collected directly during lockdown, to which retrospective cross-sectional data from and after lockdown (retrospective) questionnaires were added. We investigated sleep times and sleep quality changes from before to during lockdown and found that, during lockdown, participants had (i) worse perceived sleep quality if worried by COVID-19, (ii) a shift of bedtimes to later hours during workdays, and (iii) a sleep loss on free days (resulting from more overall sleep during workdays in non-system relevant jobs), leading to (iv) a marked reduction of social jetlag across all cultures. For further analyses we directly compared system relevant and system irrelevant jobs, because it was assumed that the nature of the lockdown's consequences is dependent upon system relevance. System relevant jobs were found to have earlier wake-up times as well as shorter total sleep times on workdays, leading to higher social jetlag for people in system relevant jobs. Cultural differences revealed a general effect that participants from Greece and Ukraine had later bedtimes (on both work and free days) and wake-up times (on workdays) than Cuba, Brazil and Austria, irrespective of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Florea
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition & Consciousness Research, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg (CCNS), Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria
| | - Pavlos Topalidis
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition & Consciousness Research, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg (CCNS), Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria
| | - Theresa Hauser
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition & Consciousness Research, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg (CCNS), Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria
| | - Monika Angerer
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition & Consciousness Research, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg (CCNS), Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anton Kurapov
- Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kiev, Ukraine
| | | | | | - Manuel Schabus
- Laboratory for Sleep, Cognition & Consciousness Research, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg (CCNS), Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Austria,Corresponding author
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19
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Silva FB, Osborn DE, Owens MR, Kirkland T, Moore CE, Patterson MA, Tucker WJ, Miketinas DC, Davis KE. Influence of COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions on College Students' Dietary Quality and Experience of the Food Environment. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082790. [PMID: 34444951 PMCID: PMC8400929 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions sent college students online and off campus, potentially reducing access to healthy food. The objective of this cross-sectional, internet-based study was to use qualitative and quantitative survey methods to evaluate whether COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in Texas, USA affected college students’ ability to buy food, how/what they shopped for, how they prepared food, what they ate, how they felt about eating, and overall dietary quality (assessed using Healthy Eating Index [HEI] scores). Survey responses from 502 students (87.5% female; 59.6% nonwhite, mean age 27.5 ± 0.4 years, >50% graduate students) were analyzed. The qualitative analysis of open-ended questions revealed 110 codes, 17 subthemes, and six themes. Almost all students experienced changes in at least one area, the most common being changes in shopping habits. Participants with low or very low food security had lower HEI scores compared to food secure students (p = 0.047). Black students were more likely to report changes in their ability to buy food (p = 0.035). The COVID-19 restrictions varied in their impact on students’ ability to access sufficient healthy food, with some students severely affected. Thus, universities should establish procedures for responding to emergencies, including identifying at-risk students and mobilizing emergency funds and/or food assistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francilia Brito Silva
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX 76024, USA; (F.B.S.); (D.E.O.)
| | - Dawn E. Osborn
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX 76024, USA; (F.B.S.); (D.E.O.)
| | - Meghan R. Owens
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (M.R.O.); (C.E.M.); (M.A.P.); (W.J.T.); (D.C.M.)
| | - Tracie Kirkland
- Department of Nursing, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA;
| | - Carolyn E. Moore
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (M.R.O.); (C.E.M.); (M.A.P.); (W.J.T.); (D.C.M.)
| | - Mindy A. Patterson
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (M.R.O.); (C.E.M.); (M.A.P.); (W.J.T.); (D.C.M.)
- Institute for Women’s Health, College of Health Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wesley J. Tucker
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (M.R.O.); (C.E.M.); (M.A.P.); (W.J.T.); (D.C.M.)
- Institute for Women’s Health, College of Health Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Derek C. Miketinas
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (M.R.O.); (C.E.M.); (M.A.P.); (W.J.T.); (D.C.M.)
| | - Kathleen E. Davis
- Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman’s University, Denton, TX 76024, USA; (F.B.S.); (D.E.O.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +01-940-898-2651
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Salehinejad MA, Azarkolah A, Ghanavati E, Nitsche MA. Circadian disturbances, sleep difficulties and the COVID-19 pandemic. Sleep Med 2021; 91:246-252. [PMID: 34334305 PMCID: PMC8277544 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed extraordinary and unpredictable changes on our lifestyle for an unknown duration. Consequently, core aspects of wellbeing including behavior, emotion, cognition, and social interactions are negatively affected. Sleep and circadian rhythms, with an extensive impact on physiology, behavior, emotion, and cognition are affected too. We provided an updated overview of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on circadian rhythms and sleep based on the results of published studies (n = 48) in three sections. First, we focus on circadian misalignment due to the pandemic in the general population (including shift workers, health staff, students) and COVID-19 patients and summarize the most critically contributing factors to circadian misalignment. Next, we address sleep difficulties and poor sleep quality during the pandemic, their contributing factors, rate and prevalence, and their effects on both the general population and COVID-19 patients. Finally, we summarize the currently applied/recommended interventions for aligning circadian rhythms and improving sleep quality in both, the general population, and COVID-19 patients during the pandemic situation. Briefly, circadian misalignment and sleep difficulties are common consequences of the pandemic in the general population (with elderly, students, children, health and night-work shifters as risk groups) and COVID-19 patients. Home confinement and its physiological, circadian, and psychological derivates are central to these difficulties. Symptoms severity, treatment progress, recovery duration, and even diagnosis of COVID-19 patients are considerably affected by circadian and sleep difficulties. Behavioral interventions for normalizing the factors that contribute to circadian and sleep difficulties are helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ali Salehinejad
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany.
| | - Anita Azarkolah
- Department of Psychiatry, Fatemi Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Elham Ghanavati
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Michael A Nitsche
- Department of Psychology and Neurosciences, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Dortmund, Germany; Department of Neurology, University Medical Hospital Bergmannsheil, Bochum, Germany
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21
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Du C, Wang W, Hsiao PY, Ludy MJ, Tucker RM. Insufficient Sleep and Poor Sleep Quality Completely Mediate the Relationship between Financial Stress and Dietary Risk among Higher Education Students. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11050069. [PMID: 34063082 PMCID: PMC8147970 DOI: 10.3390/bs11050069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic worsened financial stress for higher education students in the U.S. Financial stress is associated with poor dietary behaviors; however, factors that might influence this relationship are not well characterized. The present cross-sectional study investigated the associations between financial stress and dietary intake and dietary risk scores among higher education students (undergraduate and graduate students) in the U.S. and examined whether poor sleep quality and short sleep duration mediated the relationship between financial stress and dietary risk score. Validated tools were used to assess financial stress, sleep quality, sleep duration, dietary intake, and dietary risk. A total of 1280 students from three large U.S. universities completed the study. Results indicated that higher financial stress was associated with lower vegetable, fruit, fiber, and calcium intake, higher added sugar intake from sugar sweetened beverages, and higher dietary risk score. Further, the positive relationship between financial stress and dietary risk score was completely mediated by poor sleep quality among students who reported poor sleep quality and by short sleep duration among students who slept less than 7 h per night. These findings suggest that students might benefit from both financial management training and sleep education services to reduce undesirable dietary behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Du
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (W.W.)
| | - Wenyan Wang
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (W.W.)
| | - Pao Ying Hsiao
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Indiana, PA 15705, USA;
| | - Mary-Jon Ludy
- Department of Public and Allied Health, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA;
| | - Robin M. Tucker
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (C.D.); (W.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-517-353-3408
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22
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Morres ID, Galanis E, Hatzigeorgiadis A, Androutsos O, Theodorakis Y. Physical Activity, Sedentariness, Eating Behaviour and Well-Being during a COVID-19 Lockdown Period in Greek Adolescents. Nutrients 2021; 13:1449. [PMID: 33923341 PMCID: PMC8147023 DOI: 10.3390/nu13051449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescents' daily life has dramatically changed during the COVID-19 era due to the social restrictions that have been imposed, including closures of schools, leisure centers and sport facilities. The purpose of this study was to examine levels of well-being and mood and their relations with physical (in)activity and eating behaviors in adolescents during a lockdown period in Greece. A total of 950 adolescents (Mean Age = 14.41 years ± 1.63) participated in a web-based survey while education was conducted online and organized sport activities were interrupted. Participants showed poor well-being, insufficient physical activity levels and moderate scores of healthy eating behavior. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that, after controlling for the effect of gender and body mass index, increased physical activity and healthier eating behavior predicted better well-being (b = 0.24, p < 0.01 and b = 0.19, p < 0.01, respectively), whereas sedentariness predicted worse well-being (b = -0.16, p < 0.01). Furthermore, it was revealed that days of physical activity per week was a stronger predictor of well-being than minutes of physical activity per week, and that both in-house and out-of-house physical activity were beneficial. Considering that well-being in our study was below the threshold recommended by the World Health Organization as indicative of possible depressive symptoms, measures to increase physical activity, decrease sedentariness and improve eating behavior should become a priority for communities and policy makers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis D. Morres
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.D.M.); (E.G.); (Y.T.)
| | - Evangelos Galanis
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.D.M.); (E.G.); (Y.T.)
| | - Antonis Hatzigeorgiadis
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.D.M.); (E.G.); (Y.T.)
| | - Odysseas Androutsos
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Thessaly, 42132 Trikala, Greece;
| | - Yannis Theodorakis
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece; (I.D.M.); (E.G.); (Y.T.)
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