Changes in diet, exercise and psychology of the quarantined population during the COVID-19 outbreak in Shanghai

Abstract

Background In March 2022, a severe outbreak of COVID-19 broke out in Shanghai, with the virus spreading rapidly. In the most severe two months, more than 50,000 people were diagnosed with COVID-19. For this reason, Shanghai adopted three-district hierarchical management, requiring corresponding people to stay at home to contain the spread of the virus. Due to the requirements of prevention and control management, the diet, exercise and mental health of the corresponding population are affected to a certain extent. Objectives This article aimed to understand the population in the diet, exercise and psychological changes. Methods This study carried out the research by distributing the electronic questionnaire and carried out the statistical analysis. Results People reduced the intake of vegetables and fruits (P = 0.000<0.05), people did about an hour less exercise per week on average (P = 0.000<0.05), the number of steps they took per day decreased by nearly 2000 steps (P = 0.012<0.05), and there were significant changes in the way they exercised. Conclusion In terms of psychological state, people have some depression, anxiety and easy to feel tired after lockdown. This study can also provide reference for policy adjustment and formulation of normalized epidemic management in the future.