Changes in Food Consumption in Postmenopausal Women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Studying the dietary habits and symptoms of postmenopausal women during situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic is important to mitigate long-term post-pandemic health problems. We compared the menopausal symptoms and food consumption in postmenopausal women before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A longitudinal survey was conducted on postmenopausal Brazilian women between 2018 and 2021. The Kupperman–Blatt Menopausal Index, Women’s Health Questionnaire, and 24 h food recall were used. Of 274 women, 78 (28.5%) participated in the study during the COVID-19 pandemic. The intensity of the symptoms was lower during the pandemic than during the previous period (p < 0.05). Energy and processed food consumption were lower during the pandemic than before (p = 0.003 and p = 0.003, respectively). Milk and plain yogurt consumption were also lower (p = 0.043), while the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and sweet foods was higher (p = 0.007 and p = 0.001, respectively) during the pandemic. There was also a decrease in the consumption of proteins and lipids (p = 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). In conclusion, we found that postmenopausal women consumed sweet foods and sugar-sweetened beverages in higher quantities and had a lower consumption of milk and plain yogurt and processed foods during the pandemic than during the pre-pandemic period. Furthermore, decreases in energy and macronutrient consumption were observed.

Association of major dietary patterns with socioeconomic status, obesity, and contracting COVID-19 among Iranian adults

“…Moreover, negative emotions (e.g., stress and boredom), sleep disorders, and sedentary behaviors caused by home confinement could promote overconsumption, change dietary patterns, and reduce diet quality ( 6 ). These changes result in higher consumption of “comfort foods” and energy imbalance.…”

Effects of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Intake on Vasomotor Symptoms, Sleep Quality and Depression in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review

“…Defined as a cessation of menstruation for approximately one year after the last menstrual cycle, menopause spans 40 to 60 years, with an average age of 52 [2]. Vasomotor symptoms (VMS), encompassing hot flashes (HF), and night sweats, alongside various other manifestations such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, vaginal dryness, muscular discomfort, and sexual dysfunction, collectively impair the quality of life during this period [3,4]. It has been discovered that 30-44% of women who experience moderate to severe VMS meet the diagnostic criteria for persistent insomnia.…”