ASSESSMENT ON CONSUMPTION OF NON-VEGETARIAN FOODS DURING LOCKDOWN PERIOD IN FEMALES AGED 20-40 YEARS OF MUSLIM COMMUNITY

Background data: The covid-19 pandemic led to an enforcement of lockdown throughout the country which led to closure of supply of non-vegetarian foods. Objective: The study was conducted for assessment of consumption of Non-Vegetarian foods during lockdown period in females aged 20-40 years of Muslim Community. Methodology: An online google form questionnaire consisting of FFQ was circulated among 100 respondents and data was collected. Results: The results obtained were that there was reduced availability of non-vegetarian foods during lockdown period where meat, fish were least available. Some people avoided Non-Vegetarian foods consumption due to fear of Covid-19 which further led to sudden decrease in the chicken, meat and fish consumption (p=0.001). This dietary changes led to increase consumption of protein source vegetarian foods such as pulses, legumes, milk and milk products during lockdown period (p= 0.002), although nuts and oilseeds consumption was decreased. The Body Mass Index (BMI) of participants were also improved during lockdown period (p=0.306) as many people transformed into normal BMI category. The participants self-reported that they developed health problems such as joint pain, muscle pain, fatigue, skin problems, hair fall, bone related issue and decreased immunity. Also decreased haemoglobin levels, Vitamin B12, Iron, Calcium and Vitamin D deficiency. These health issues developed may be because of decreased protein intake during lockdown period. Conclusion: Awareness must be created among participants about the protein rich vegetarian sources and the ways to increase its bioavailability so as to mitigate health issues.