Science News: Comfort vs. health - How has our diet changed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic?

– K.J., Editor

Since March 2020, our lifestyles have undergone unexpected changes, and even at times, unwelcome changes, such as reduced physical activity due to working from home. As a way to cope with these changes, food has become a key source of comfort, with foods high in sugar, carbohydrates, salt and fat being consumed in higher quantities.

Every person has at least one food that they eat as a source of psychological comfort. No matter what the choice of food is, it helps to ease negative feelings and can give a sense of escape, even if only temporary..

But, can consuming “comfort food” be bad? Since the pandemic began, many studies about diet changes have been conducted. While some of these studies showed that home cooking and eating fresh produce increased, others showed that eating snacks, fried food, processed food and sweets, typical comfort foods, rose in 2020. This trend, combined with lower physical activity from staying at home, is not good for long-term health.

So how can we enjoy our comfort food without any negative effects? The answers are simple: 1. Moderation. Comfort foods are best in small amounts. 2. Eat healthier versions. For example, try baked instead of fried chicken, eat smaller portions, add veggies and fruit where possible. Bon appetit!

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