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Longitudinal Weight Gain and Related Risk Behaviors during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Adults in the US.
Bhutani, S, vanDellen, MR, Cooper, JA
Nutrients. 2021;13(2)
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The Covid-19 pandemic has altered health behaviours of many individuals resulting in weight gain. This cross-sectional study of 1779 individuals aimed to determine the long-term impact of Covid-19 on health behaviours and weight gain over 5 months. The results showed that most participants (40%) body weight increased alongside increased processed food intake and snacking. 33% of the individuals who gained weight continued to gain weight and 28% maintained their higher weight after lockdown measures were lifted. Take-away meals, processed food intake and stress levels remained high post-lockdown in those who gained weight. It was concluded that lockdown measures may have impacted daily life resulting in weight gain which may perpetuate long-term. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand that lockdown measures may have altered eating behaviours resulting in weight gain and that these may need to be uncovered to aid long-term weight loss.
Abstract
Cross-sectional analyses have shown increased obesogenic behaviors and a potential for weight gain during COVID-19 related peak-lockdown (March-May 2020), but longitudinal data are lacking. This study assessed longitudinal changes in body weight and lifestyle behaviors in the US adults during the pandemic. METHODS We used Qualtrics survey to collect self-reported data on body weight, dietary, physical activity, and psychological variables (n = 727) during the peak-lockdown (April/May) and at post-lockdown (September/October). Peak-lockdown weight data were categorized based on the magnitude of weight gained, maintained, or lost, and behavioral differences were examined between categories at two time points. RESULTS Body weight increased (+0.62 kg; p < 0.05) at the post-lockdown period. The body mass index also increased (26.38 ± 5.98 kg/m2 vs. 26.12 ± 5.81 kg/m2; p < 0.01) at the post-lockdown period vs. peak-lockdown period. Close to 40% of participants reported gaining either 1-4 lbs or >5 lbs of body weight during the peak-lockdown, while 18.2% lost weight. Weight-gainers engaged in riskier dietary behaviors such as frequent ultra-processed food intake (p < 0.01) and snacking (p < 0.001), were less active, and reported high stress and less craving control during peak-lockdown. Of those gaining >5 lbs, 33% continued to gain weight after the lockdown eased, while 28% maintain higher body weight. In weight-gainers, takeout meal frequency increased, and high ultra-processed food intake and stress, and low craving control continued to persist after the lockdown eased. CONCLUSION We show that the COVID-19 lockdown periods disrupted weight management among many Americans and that associated health effects are likely to persist.
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Physical inactivity is associated with a higher risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes: a study in 48 440 adult patients.
Sallis, R, Young, DR, Tartof, SY, Sallis, JF, Sall, J, Li, Q, Smith, GN, Cohen, DA
British journal of sports medicine. 2021;55(19):1099-1105
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Regular physical activity may prevent poor outcomes due to COVID-19 in several ways such as improving immune function and reducing inflammation which may contribute to lung damage. However, lockdown measures in many countries have led to a reduction in physical activity. This observational study of 48440 patients with COVID-19 aimed to determine if regular physical activity had a protective effect for severe COVID-19 outcomes. The results showed that patients with COVID-19 who were inactive were more likely to be hospitalised, admitted to intensive care and die compared to individuals who were meeting activity guidelines set by the government in the USA and those who were doing some sort of physical activity. Interestingly individuals who were inactive were more at risk of hospitalisation, admission to intensive care and death than individuals who smoked and who had a chronic disease, indicating the role that physical activity may have in preventing poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19. It was concluded that meeting physical activity guidelines was associated with a reduced risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of recommending activity to individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare hospitalisation rates, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions and mortality for patients with COVID-19 who were consistently inactive, doing some activity or consistently meeting physical activity guidelines. METHODS We identified 48 440 adult patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis from 1 January 2020 to 21 October 2020, with at least three exercise vital sign measurements from 19 March 2018 to 18 March 2020. We linked each patient's self-reported physical activity category (consistently inactive=0-10 min/week, some activity=11-149 min/week, consistently meeting guidelines=150+ min/week) to the risk of hospitalisation, ICU admission and death after COVID-19 diagnosis. We conducted multivariable logistic regression controlling for demographics and known risk factors to assess whether inactivity was associated with COVID-19 outcomes. RESULTS Patients with COVID-19 who were consistently inactive had a greater risk of hospitalisation (OR 2.26; 95% CI 1.81 to 2.83), admission to the ICU (OR 1.73; 95% CI 1.18 to 2.55) and death (OR 2.49; 95% CI 1.33 to 4.67) due to COVID-19 than patients who were consistently meeting physical activity guidelines. Patients who were consistently inactive also had a greater risk of hospitalisation (OR 1.20; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.32), admission to the ICU (OR 1.10; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.29) and death (OR 1.32; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.60) due to COVID-19 than patients who were doing some physical activity. CONCLUSIONS Consistently meeting physical activity guidelines was strongly associated with a reduced risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes among infected adults. We recommend efforts to promote physical activity be prioritised by public health agencies and incorporated into routine medical care.
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Investigating the Relationship between Vitamin D and Persistent Symptoms Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection.
Townsend, L, Dyer, AH, McCluskey, P, O'Brien, K, Dowds, J, Laird, E, Bannan, C, Bourke, NM, Ní Cheallaigh, C, Byrne, DG, et al
Nutrients. 2021;13(7)
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Persistence of symptoms following COVID-19 infection is known as long COVID and occurs in up to a third of sufferers and can last for as long as 6 months post infection. Tiredness and reduced capacity to exercise are characteristic of long COVID, however why these symptoms persist in a handful of patients is unknown. Vitamin D deficiency is gaining attention for its potential to improve symptoms of tiredness, however there are few studies examining its relationship with long COVID. This observational study of 149 patients who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 aimed to determine the relationship between symptoms of long COVID, inflammation in the body and vitamin D levels. The results showed that fatigue was common, but there was no association between vitamin D levels and fatigue, inflammation, or capacity to exercise. Interestingly women were more likely to experience fatigue in this study. It was concluded that fatigue and reduced exercise capacity are independent of vitamin D in those who have had COVID-19. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand symptoms of long COVID, and that vitamin D may not be effective for those symptoms.
Abstract
The emergence of persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection, known as long COVID, is providing a new challenge to healthcare systems. The cardinal features are fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance. Vitamin D is known to have pleotropic effects far beyond bone health and is associated with immune modulation and autoimmunity. We hypothesize that vitamin D levels are associated with persistent symptoms following COVID-19. Herein, we investigate the relationship between vitamin D and fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance, assessed by the Chalder Fatigue Score, six-minute walk test and modified Borg scale. Multivariable linear and logistic regression models were used to evaluate the relationships. A total of 149 patients were recruited at a median of 79 days after COVID-19 illness. The median vitamin D level was 62 nmol/L, with n = 36 (24%) having levels 30-49 nmol/L and n = 14 (9%) with levels <30 nmol/L. Fatigue was common, with n = 86 (58%) meeting the case definition. The median Borg score was 3, while the median distance covered for the walk test was 450 m. No relationship between vitamin D and the measures of ongoing ill-health assessed in the study was found following multivariable regression analysis. These results suggest that persistent fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance following COVID-19 are independent of vitamin D.
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Long-term clinical outcomes in survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus outbreaks after hospitalisation or ICU admission: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Ahmed, H, Patel, K, Greenwood, DC, Halpin, S, Lewthwaite, P, Salawu, A, Eyre, L, Breen, A, O'Connor, R, Jones, A, et al
Journal of rehabilitation medicine. 2020;52(5):jrm00063
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Alongside acute challenges, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreaks resulted in significant long-term clinical problems for survivors, with implications for rehabilitation services and healthcare utilization. The aim of this study was to determine the long-term clinical complications for survivors of SARS and MERS after hospitalization and intensive care unit admission. This study is a systemic review and meta-analysis which included a total of 28 studies in the systematic review and 23 in the meta-analysis. Results indicate that health-related quality of life, measured using SF-36, was considerably reduced in survivors at 6 months post-infection, and showed only slight improvement beyond 6 months. Health-related quality of life of survivors remained below that of the normal population and of those with chronic conditions. Authors conclude that clinicians should monitor the survivors of COVID-19 for the range of physical and mental health impairments in order to manage these patients appropriately.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine long-term clinical outcomes in survivors of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus infections after hospitalization or intensive care unit admission. DATA SOURCES Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, and PsycINFO were searched. STUDY SELECTION Original studies reporting clinical outcomes of adult SARS and MERS survivors 3 months after admission or 2 months after discharge were included. DATA EXTRACTION Studies were graded using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 2009 Level of Evidence Tool. Meta-analysis was used to derive pooled estimates for prevalence/severity of outcomes up to 6 months after hospital discharge, and beyond 6 months after discharge. DATA SYNTHESIS Of 1,169 identified studies, 28 were included in the analysis. Pooled analysis revealed that common complications up to 6 months after discharge were: impaired diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (prevalence 27%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 15–45%); and reduced exercise capacity (mean 6-min walking distance 461 m, CI 450–473 m). The prevalences of post-traumatic stress disorder (39%, 95% CI 31–47%), depression (33%, 95% CI 20–50%) and anxiety (30%, 95% CI 10–61) beyond 6 months after discharge were considerable. Low scores on Short-Form 36 were identified beyond 6 months after discharge. CONCLUSION Lung function abnormalities, psychological impairment and reduced exercise capacity were common in SARS and MERS survivors. Clinicians should anticipate and investigate similar long-term outcomes in COVID-19 survivors.
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Nutrition, the digestive system and immunity in COVID-19 infection.
Bold, J, Harris, M, Fellows, L, Chouchane, M
Gastroenterology and hepatology from bed to bench. 2020;13(4):331-340
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Covid-19 needs both prevention and recovery strategies to reduce complications. This review study aimed to discuss the associations between nutrition, obesity, and the impact these have on stomach symptoms associated with Covid-19. Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for Covid-19 and this could be due to several factors such as impaired immune function, increased inflammation, increased susceptibility to infection and the high number of cells on fat tissue, which express the receptor known to allow Covid-19 into cells. The involvement of the gut microbiota of obese individuals was extensively reviewed and gut dysbiosis has been associated with many diseases, thus improving gut microbiota may go some way to improving Covid-19 outcomes. Nutritional interventions to reduce obesity need to be part of a multi-pronged strategy and the possible introduction of vitamin D supplements and probiotics. The paper did not draw any conclusions; however this paper could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the role of obesity in increasing the risk of Covid-19 infection, complications that may arise upon and after infection and nutritional strategies as part of a management plan.
Abstract
The current review aimed to synthesize the literature on the complex relationship between food consumption and nutritional status as well as the digestive system in order to examine the relationship between immunity and potential responses to COVID-19 infection. The goal is to help inform the many healthcare professionals working with COVID-19 patients. A literature search was performed on PubMed, Scopus, and EMBASE databases. Hand searches were also undertaken using Google and reference lists to identify recent evidence. Studies were critically appraised, and the findings were analyzed by narrative synthesis. Nutritional status can impact immunity in several ways, including affecting susceptibility to infection, severity of disease, and recovery time, and is therefore a significant consideration in the management of COVID-19. COVID-19 can also impact digestive function, which can further impact nutritional status. The role of Vitamin D deficiency in vulnerability to severe respiratory infections, including COVID-19, has been recognized, and it may have a role in treatment where deficiency is indicated. Healthcare professionals should be aware that obesity may be accompanied by micronutrient malnutrition including vitamin D deficiency and alterations in the microbiome and inflammatory responses, which can further impact immunity and disease severity. Multidisciplinary team-work is recommended in the management of patients with COVID-19, and approaches should include a consideration of nutritional status (both macronutrients and micronutrients), body weight, and gastrointestinal signs and symptom.
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The Long Haul of COVID-19 Recovery: Immune Rejuvenation versus Immune Support.
Bland, JS
Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.). 2020;19(6):18-22
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Following Covid-19 infection, sufferers have reported various residual symptoms, which have been likened to those experienced by chronic fatigue sufferers and those with Gulf War syndrome. This review paper aimed to assess whether the body has a similar immune response to these diseases during Covid-19, and if so, what therapies could be used. It also reviewed any diet and lifestyle factors that may be affecting the immune response. The paper stated that Covid-19 infection is associated with inflammation, which can damage immune cells and inflammation prior to Covid-19 infection may contribute to severity of the infection. Prior research in seemingly healthy individuals indicates that environment, diet, and lifestyle factors can all contribute to differing “immune identities” and eliminating immune cells which carry the imprint of memories should be a therapy focus in Covid-19 patients. Fasting, diets low in refined sugars and high in omega-3 and plant chemicals were discussed as ways for the body to clear out immune cells. It was concluded that personalising therapy strategies based on an individual’s immune identity to reduce inflammation could ultimately support the immune system. This paper could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of diet and lifestyle changes to reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Abstract
With the COVID-19 pandemic still affecting communities all over the world and "Long Haul" chronic health issues emerging, it is time for us to look back at past multi-symptom health conditions that required a different approach to their treatment, beyond just managing symptoms. It is important for us to consider how to apply what we have learned about immune rejuvenation and its impact on conditions associated with chronic immune dysfunction. We know more than we ever have before about how to reduce chronic inflammation at its source through the support of selective immune cell autophagy/mitophagy and improved immune cell mitochondrial activity, followed by remodeling of the immune epigenome, and-ultimately-a reset of immune function.
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Changes of Physical Activity and Ultra-Processed Food Consumption in Adolescents from Different Countries during Covid-19 Pandemic: An Observational Study.
Ruíz-Roso, MB, de Carvalho Padilha, P, Matilla-Escalante, DC, Brun, P, Ulloa, N, Acevedo-Correa, D, Arantes Ferreira Peres, W, Martorell, M, Rangel Bousquet Carrilho, T, de Oliveira Cardoso, L, et al
Nutrients. 2020;12(8)
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As a result of global lockdowns due to Covid-19, activity and diets may have changed amongst many individuals especially with consumption of ultra-processed foods and physical activity. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine how diet and activity may have been impacted amongst adolescents from several countries in Europe and Latin America during the Covid-19 pandemic. The results showed that amongst the 726 adolescents studied physical inactivity increased from 73% to 79.5% and that Latin America was the hardest hit with an increased inactivity from 40.9% before to 93% during the pandemic and it was observed that living in Latin America was associated with habitually eating ultra-processed foods. It was concluded that Covid-19 lockdown worsened physical activity levels especially in Latin America and that ultra-processed food consumption was increased. This study could be used by healthcare professionals to understand the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle during periods of social isolation.
Abstract
AIM: to describe physical activity and ultra-processed foods consumption, their changes and sociodemographic predictors among adolescents from countries in Europe (Italy and Spain) and Latin America (Brazil, Chile, and Colombia) during the SARS-CoV-2-pandemic period. METHODS Cross-sectional study via web survey. International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and weekly ultra-processed food consumption data were used. To compare the frequencies of physical activity status with sociodemographic variables, a multinomial logistic and a multiple logistic regression for habitual ultra-processed foods was performed. In final models, p < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Sample of 726 adolescents, mostly females (59.6%) aged 16-19 years old (54.3%). Adolescents from Latin America presented odds ratio (OR) 2.98 (CI 95% 1.80-4.94) of being inactive and those whose mothers had higher level of education were less active during lockdown [OR 0.40 (CI 95% 0.20-0.84)]. The habitual ultra-processed consumption was also high during this period in all countries, and more prevalent in Latin America. CONCLUSION A higher prevalence of inactivity was observed in this population, but reductions of physical activity and habitual ultra-processed consumption during the pandemic were more pronounced in Latin America. Our findings reinforce the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle, i.e., exercise and diet, during periods of social isolation.
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The potential long-term impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on patients with non-communicable diseases in Europe: consequences for healthy ageing.
Palmer, K, Monaco, A, Kivipelto, M, Onder, G, Maggi, S, Michel, JP, Prieto, R, Sykara, G, Donde, S
Aging clinical and experimental research. 2020;32(7):1189-1194
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Individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCD's), i.e. diseases that are not transmitted from person to person, such as diabetes and heart disease, are at a much higher risk of death from Covid-19. But for individuals who contract Covid-19 and survive, there could be considerable implications on the progression of their pre-existing condition. This review study aimed to discuss how the Covid-19 pandemic might impact management and outcomes in individuals with NCD's. The paper outlined that higher Covid-19 death rates in individuals with NCD's, will cause a decline of these diseases within populations. Although there is little peer reviewed research to support this, circumstantial reports are already suggesting lower hospital admissions for stroke and heart attacks. However it should be noted that it is obvious that this paper was written at the start of the pandemic. The paper went on to discuss that the pandemic and subsequent government actions to control the infection will affect individuals with NCD's through reductions in physical activity, social interaction, and vitamin D intake. Changes to medical management, the subsequent possibility of decreased adherence to medications and the halting of much needed research on NCD's in favour of Covid-19 research, will further exacerbate the impact on individuals with pre-existing conditions. Finally, areas upon which the healthcare system and government should be focusing in order to help individuals with NCD's were discussed. Amongst these was the acknowledgement that the public and private healthcare systems have collaborated with success and this should continue and that on-going support through technology such as Telehealth services and patient advocacy associations is a necessity. Clinicians could use this paper to understand how Covid-19 could accelerate disease progression in individuals with NCD’s and that close monitoring is essential. For individuals with NCD’s who do not have Covid-19, close monitoring would still be required to ensure that government strategies to contain the virus do not exacerbate their condition.
Abstract
The early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic have focused on containing SARS-CoV-2 infection and identifying treatment strategies. While controlling this communicable disease is of utmost importance, the long-term effect on individuals with non-communicable diseases (NCD) is significant. Although certain NCDs appear to increase the severity of COVID-19 and mortality risk, SARS-CoV-2 infection in survivors with NCDs may also affect the progression of their pre-existing clinical conditions. Infection containment measures will have substantial short- and long-term consequences; social distancing and quarantine restrictions will reduce physical activity and increase other unhealthy lifestyles, thus increasing NCD risk factors and worsening clinical symptoms. Vitamin D levels might decrease and there might be a rise in mental health disorders. Many countries have made changes to routine management of NCD patients, e.g., cancelling non-urgent outpatient visits, which will have important implications for NCD management, diagnosis of new-onset NCDs, medication adherence, and NCD progression. We may have opportunities to learn from this unprecedented crisis on how to leverage healthcare technologies and improve procedures to optimize healthcare service provision. This article discusses how the COVID-19 outbreak and related infection control measures could hit the most frail individuals, worsening the condition of NCD patients, while further jeopardizing the sustainability of the healthcare systems. We suggest ways to define an integrated strategy that could involve both public institutional entities and the private sector to safeguard frail individuals and mitigate the impact of the outbreak.
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COVID-19 and diabetes: The why, the what and the how.
Cuschieri, S, Grech, S
Journal of diabetes and its complications. 2020;34(9):107637
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Early reports have shown that individuals with diabetes who contract Covid-19 have higher hospital admissions and mortality rates, classing them as a vulnerable group. This review paper aimed to explain why this group of people are vulnerable and what measures could be recommended. The paper outlined that individuals with diabetes have a compromised immune system due to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. In addition to this, individuals with diabetes and Covid-19 may have a higher risk of organ damage due to the effects of the body's immune response combined with the disordered biological processes associated with their pre-existing condition. Conversely, it was discussed that Covid-19 could exacerbate diabetes progression if the Covid-19 virus entered the cells of the pancreas, causing a blood sugar imbalance. As a result, the importance of optimal blood sugar control was outlined. Several medications were addressed and their benefits/disadvantages discussed. Amongst those reviewed were medications such as GLP-1 agonists, which may help with controlling blood sugar levels and may prevent Covid-19 entering the body's own cells, and metformin, which was initially developed as an anti-influenza drug. Finally the paper discussed diabetes specific precautions to avoid contracting Covid-19. Vitamin D supplementation, regular blood sugar checks, lifestyle measures such as exercise and dietary requirements and allowing individuals with diabetes to have large supplies of their medications to avoid leaving the house were discussed. It was concluded that during the Covid-19 pandemic, individuals with diabetes require particular care in order to avoid additional burden on healthcare systems. For those individuals with diabetes who haven’t contracted Covid-19, this paper could be used to recommend any extra precautions to take to avoid contracting this virus.
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has taken the world by storm. Alongside COVID-19, diabetes is a long-standing global epidemic. The diabetes population has been reported to suffer adverse outcomes if infected by COVID-19. The aim was to summarise information and resources available on diabetes and COVID-19, highlighting special measures that individuals with diabetes need to follow. METHODS A search using keywords "COVID-19" and "Diabetes" was performed using different sources, including PubMed and World Health Organization. RESULTS COVID-19 may enhance complications in individuals with diabetes through an imbalance in angiotension-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) activation pathways leading to an inflammatory response. ACE2 imbalance in the pancreas causes acute β-cell dysfunction and a resultant hyperglycemic state. These individuals may be prone to worsened COVID-19 complications including vasculopathy, coagulopathy as well as psychological stress. Apart from general preventive measures, remaining hydrated, monitoring blood glucose regularly and monitoring ketone bodies in urine if on insulin is essential. All this while concurrently maintaining physical activity and a healthy diet. Different supporting entities are being set up to help this population. CONCLUSION COVID-19 is a top priority. It is important to remember that a substantial proportion of the world's population is affected by other co-morbidities such as diabetes. These require special attention during this pandemic to avoid adding on to the burden of countries' healthcare systems.
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Quarantine during COVID-19 outbreak: Changes in diet and physical activity increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Mattioli, AV, Sciomer, S, Cocchi, C, Maffei, S, Gallina, S
Nutrition, metabolism, and cardiovascular diseases : NMCD. 2020;30(9):1409-1417
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Current quarantine measures aim to reduce transmission of Covid-19 to prevent deaths and ensure healthcare systems do not become overwhelmed. However the long term effects of quarantine can have negative consequences on an individual’s health. Stress, increased heart related diseases and affected mental health have all been implicated as outcomes of extended quarantine. This review paper aimed to assess the impact of quarantine on lifestyle factors such as nutrition, physical activity and the role of technology in a Covid-19 adapting world. The paper outlines that quarantine may increase chronic stress, which activates certain nervous and hormonal systems, resulting in adverse affects on the heart. However physical data on this in relation to quarantine is lacking. Quarantine can also lead to changes in lifestyle habits, such as an increased intake of sugar-rich food, alcohol and a decrease in physical activity, which may be maintained after quarantine has lifted in response to economic crisis. Stress related eating, the availability of fresh foods and restricted shop opening hours were implicated as reasons why many people switch to unhealthy eating habits. Prevention of Covid-19 through the use of vitamin D was discussed, due to its ability to protect against infection and inflammation, especially in those who are deficient. Preventative measures to quarantine related stress and reducing the risk of heart related diseases were also highlighted through staying physically active and healthy eating strategies. The paper concluded that after the Covid-19 pandemic it is likely that there will be an increase in heart related diseases. Clinicians could use this paper to encourage healthy eating and exercise in patients who have heart related diseases or to decrease the risk of heart related diseases in patients who are suffering from stress as a direct result of quarantine.
Abstract
AIMS: CoV-19/SARS-CoV-2 is a highly pathogenic virus that is causing a global pandemic with a high number of deaths and infected people. To contain the diffusion of infection, several governments have enforced restrictions on outdoor activities or even collective quarantine on the population. The present commentary briefly analyzes the effects of quarantine on lifestyle, including nutrition and physical activity and the impact of new technologies in dealing with this situation. DATA SYNTHESIS Quarantine is associated with stress and depression leading to unhealthy diet and reduced physical activity. A diet poor in fruit and vegetables is frequent during isolation, with a consequent low intake of antioxidants and vitamins. However, vitamins have recently been identified as a principal weapon in the fight against the Cov-19 virus. Some reports suggest that Vitamin D could exert a protective effect on such infection. During quarantine, strategies to further increase home-based physical activity and to encourage adherence to a healthy diet should be implemented. The WHO has just released guidance for people in self-quarantine, those without any symptoms or diagnosis of acute respiratory illness, which provides practical advice on how to stay active and reduce sedentary behavior while at home. CONCLUSION Quarantine carries some long-term effects on cardiovascular disease, mainly related to unhealthy lifestyle and anxiety. Following quarantine, a global action supporting healthy diet and physical activity is mandatory to encourage people to return to a good lifestyle routine.