There’s little doubt that the majority of Americans are eating a little differently now than before the coronavirus hit. In fact, 70 percent of consumers reported that they are drinking more alcohol and eating and snacking more frequently now, according to a survey from Influence Central, a company that develops social-media and digital campaigns focused on influencer marketing.
No wonder there’s talk circulating about the “COVID-19,” as in the 19 pounds many feel they have gained while isolated at home and not able to get to the gym. People tend to eat more to cope with stress or boredom, and right now, people are finding an abundance of both until we can all get back to work, says Stacy DeBroff, social- and digital-media strategist, author, attorney and founder of Influence Central.
Of the 630 people surveyed, 47% were eating more sweets and 24% had decreased their consumption of vegetables. In addition, around 20 percent were eating less fruit and protein.
Not all the news is bad. On the healthier side, 43% said they had upped their consumption of fruit, 42% were eating more vegetables and 30% were eating more protein in the form of meat, poultry or fish.
Interestingly, 39%, with more time in the morning, reported eating a more filling or balanced breakfast – often considered the most important, and possibly most undervalued, meal of the day.