COVID-19 Pandemic Exacerbates Stress, Poor Eating Habits, and Weight Loss

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from State University Campinas conducted a study in 2020 to assess the prevalence of perceived stress, food consumption, and health-related behaviors among adult workers and students in Sao Paulo, Brazil, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study found that over one-third of participants experienced high levels of stress, alongside increased consumption of unhealthy foods, alcohol, and weight loss.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved 524 participants, aged 18-65 years, from Higher Education Institutions in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
  • The highest level of perceived stress reached 31.1% of the sample, with individuals with lower household income, those who consumed fried foods, sweets, and increased alcohol use exhibiting higher stress levels.
  • Participants who reported weight loss during the pandemic had a 2.62 times higher risk of stress compared to those who maintained their weight.
  • Consuming fried foods, sweets, and increased alcohol use were associated with higher levels of stress, with adjusted prevalence ratios of 1.80, 1.69, and 1.76, respectively.
  • Participants who exhibited high levels of stress, greater consumption of unhealthy foods, increased alcohol use, and weight loss were from Higher Education Institutions in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Statistics:

  • 31.1% of the sample experienced high levels of perceived stress.
  • 524 participants were involved in the study.
  • Adjusted prevalence ratios for stress levels:

+ Lower household income: 2.14

+ Consuming fried foods: 1.80

+ Consuming sweets: 1.69

+ Increased alcohol consumption: 1.76

+ Weight loss: 2.62

  • 95% confidence intervals for adjusted prevalence ratios:

+ Lower household income: 1.22-3.73

+ Consuming fried foods: 1.15-2.82

+ Consuming sweets: 1.11-2.56

+ Increased alcohol consumption: 1.15-2.68

+ Weight loss: 1.25-5.51

Sources:

  • NewsRx. State University Campinas Researchers Update Current Data on COVID-19 (Stress levels, eating habits, and body weight of adults in Higher Education Institutions). Medical Letter on the CDC & FDA. October 19, 2025; p 408.
  • O Mundo da Saude. Stress levels, eating habits, and body weight of adults in Higher Education Institutions. 2025,49.
  • DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.202549e17412025P.