The Influence of Lockdown Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic on Weight Management in Patients With Obesity in Portugal

Introduction: Obesity is a chronic and multifactorial disease, and the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown have led to changes in the lifestyle habits of those patients. This study aimed to compare compliance with dietary and lifestyle measures, physical activity, mental health status, and motivation to lose weight during the pandemic in these patients. Methods: An observational study was conducted, which included 63 patients over 18 years old who were followed in the outpatient setting through obesity medical appointments and who agreed to answer a questionnaire. Results: We found that the majority of patients lost weight during the pandemic (61.7%), associating it with a 68% change in dietary habits. Regarding physical activity, there was a 34.9% reduction in its practice among those who used to exercise before the pandemic. Moreover, 52.4% felt more anxious and 44.4% felt sadder during the lockdown. Discussion: The weight loss reported in our study seems to be related to a decrease in the consumption of carbohydrates and snacks and a lower percentage of those who relied on takeaways. Additionally, we hypothesize a greater number of home-cooked meals. Regarding exercise, the closure of gyms and the limitations imposed on daily life appear to have contributed unfavorably to this matter. Home confinement, loneliness, and a lack of social activities had harmful effects on the mental health of our sample. Conclusion: Overall, the hostile influence of the pandemic on mental well-being and exercise habits was evident. Nevertheless, contrary to our expectations, we observed weight loss during the lockdown.