Exploring Daily Diet and Physical Activity Habit Changes Associated with COVID-19 Pandemic: A Preliminary Study in Java

At the end of 2019, the SARS-Cov2 virus was discovered in Wuhan, China, which caused the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. On September 6, 2021, based on data released by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, the number of people exposed to COVID-19 in Indonesia was 4,123,617. One of the important factors to consider in living daily life during the COVID-19 pandemic is maintaining the immune system. A good immune system is also supported by daily habits and environmental factors, such as eating habit, physical activity, stress management, and socio-economic conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the changes that occurred, especially in eating habits and physical activity, during the pandemic. The survey was conducted from June 1 to July 2 2021 using the structured questionnaire which consists of demographic information, anthropometric data, dietary habits and physical activity habits information. This study provides data on eating habits and physical activity patterns in Java Island during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants are ranging in age from 18 to 63 years old (57% women and 63% are married). The findings show that as many as 87% of respondents consume rice in portions of 100-1000 grams per day for three meals. Sixty-six per cent of those polled said their lifestyle and eating habits had changed due to the pandemic. Consumption of fruits and vegetables increased by 45%, followed by protein by 21% and milk by 22% and carbohydrate consumption by 12%. Despite only a 5% increase, there was an increase in workout habits during the pandemic (before the pandemic, 80%). However, the frequency of exercise increased to 3-4 times per week.