LAUSR

Background and Aims: As we move toward a post-pandemic society, a question arises. How will the way we live look different in the wake of the pandemic? The aim of this survey was to evaluate changes in eating habits and other lifestyle behaviors (i.e., exercise and smoking) of people of almost all ages, who live in Greece, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A web-based survey using conventional sampling was conducted from 1st to 31st of December 2020, in Greece. A total of 2,258 individuals, aged 17 years and older were voluntarily participated (912 (40%) men). Results: 89 (3.94%) of the participants reported that they had, or currently have been diagnosed with COVID-19. 35% of the participants reported that they have changed their dietary habits during the pandemic towards a healthier diet;19% of the participants have started or increased the frequency of receiving dietary supplements that enhance the immune system. 34% of the participants reported that they gained weight during the pandemic period, whereas 19.8% reported that they have lost weight. 37% of the participants reported that they have started or increased, as compared to the pre-pandemic time, the frequency of physical activities. Conclusions: The pandemic seems that forced people and in particular those with morbidities, to discover again habits and traditions towards a more natural and healthier way of living. Long-term consequences and the evolution of these lifestyle changes after the COVID-19 pandemic have to be evaluated relevant to their implications in public health.