Obesity has always been a public health concern as it leads to various chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

However, obesity has become even more of a concern during the crisis as people are staying indoors, socially isolating and being inactive. While some individuals are able to maintain their healthy habits and lifestyles, it has become harder for others. As a result, many reports suggest that the number of obese cases has increased.

Young adults: Increase in obesity cases

Young adults have been particularly affected by the crisis as they have faced numerous challenges such as the loss of jobs, the inability to socialize and their inability to participate in outdoor activities.

Furthermore, with the closure of gyms, people have been unable to exercise or maintain their physical fitness levels. This has led to an increase in sedentary behavior and unhealthy eating habits, resulting in weight gain.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, the prevalence of obesity increased from 23.8% to 25.4% among young adults aged 18-24 years old between 2016 and 2018. This figure is likely to have risen due to the crisis. Although young adults are typically more active and have a faster metabolism, the inability to engage in physical activity has led to a reduction in their metabolic rate.

Therefore, the young adult population is at a greater risk of becoming overweight or obese during the crisis.

The elderly: Increase in obesity cases

The elderly population has been severely affected by the crisis as they are more vulnerable to the virus. As a result, many elderly individuals have limited their physical activity and social interaction.

Furthermore, with the closure of community resources such as senior centers and gyms, many have been unable to engage in physical activity and maintain their physical fitness levels. This has led to weight gain and an increase in the prevalence of obesity.

According to a study published in the Journal of Gerontology, the prevalence of obesity has increased from 42.4% to 43.5% among elderly individuals aged 60 years and above between 2016 and 2018. This figure is likely to have risen due to the crisis.

Challenges with healthy eating during the crisis

Healthy eating habits are essential to prevent and manage obesity. However, the crisis has presented numerous challenges in maintaining a healthy diet.

Firstly, with the closure of schools and work, many individuals have been cooking and eating more meals at home. With limited knowledge of nutrition and cooking skills, people are more likely to consume high calorie and processed foods. Furthermore, with the closure of restaurants, it has become harder to find healthy options when eating out.

Secondly, the economic impact of the crisis has resulted in job losses and financial insecurity for many individuals. As a result, people are more likely to purchase cheaper and less healthy food options which in turn contribute to the rise in obesity cases.

Physical inactivity during the crisis

Physical inactivity is a key contributing factor to obesity. With the closure of gyms and limited outdoor activities available, people have been unable to engage in physical activity.

Furthermore, with social distancing and remote work, many individuals have been working from home which has led to a sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity results in weight gain and a reduction in metabolic rate. In addition, sedentary behaviors have been linked to numerous negative health outcomes such as insulin resistance and metabolic disorders.

Strategies to prevent and manage obesity during the crisis

While it is challenging to maintain healthy habits during the crisis, it is important to take action to prevent and manage obesity. Below are some strategies that may help:.

Engage in physical activity: Although gyms may be closed and outdoor activities are limited, there are numerous ways to stay active. This may include walking, running, biking, dancing, or engaging in home workouts.
Eat a healthy diet: This may include consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It is also important to limit processed and high-calorie food.
Limit sedentary behavior: This can be done by standing up, taking regular breaks, and engaging in active hobbies such as gardening or DIY projects.
Seek professional help: If an individual is struggling with maintaining a healthy lifestyle or has pre-existing conditions, it may be helpful to seek professional help from a doctor or a registered dietitian.

Conclusion

Obesity cases have increased among both young and elderly individuals during the crisis. This is attributed to physical inactivity and unhealthy eating habits.

It is important to engage in physical activity, eat a healthy diet, limit sedentary behavior, and seek professional help if needed. By taking action, we can prevent and manage obesity during the crisis.