Weight gain in adults with obesity during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with higher deteriorations in mental health, maladaptive eating behaviors, and less physical activity, according to a study published in Obesity. Jaime Almandoz, MD, and colleagues examined the relationships between body weight changes, health behaviors, and mental health in 404 adults. Mean weight change was +4.3%, with 30% of participants reporting weight gain of 5% or more and 19% reporting 5% or more weight loss. There was a positive association between degree of both weight gain and weight loss with baseline BMI. Most participants (80%) reported difficulties with body weight regulation. Those who gained 5% or more of their body weight were more likely to report higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression; less sleep and exercise; less healthy eating and home-cooked meals; and more takeout food, comfort food, fast food, overeating, and binge eating. “Our findings underscore the complexity of obesity; it’s not just about telling people to eat less and move more,” Dr. Almandoz said in a statement.
