Dietary changes and life habits of patients with cystic fibrosis in the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective: to verify changes in food consumption and lifestyle in Brazilian cystic fibrosis patients during the period of social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: cross-sectional survey with data collection through a questionnaire prepared by the team of nutritionists specialized in the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis, with questions regarding the recent respiratory manifestations of patients or family members, changes in the habits of purchasing food and changes regarding the consumption of food groups and supplements. The data were tabulated and a descriptive analysis was performed. Results: 40.34% of the families of patients with cystic fibrosis changed their food shopping habits, about 40% of the patients decreased their physical activity and increased the time spent using screens by more than 50% during the pandemic COVID-19. Conclusion: despite some difficulties related to the acquisition of food and changes in lifestyle, there was maintenance of the food consumption of most food groups and supplements by Brazilian pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis during social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.