Gallery Presentation International Positive Psychology Association 7th IPPA World Congress 2021

Feeding the brain : mental health and dietary choices during COVID-19 lockdown in France. (#201)

Elisabeth Grimaud 1
  1. Psychology, Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire en Neurosciences, Physiologie et Psychologie : Apprentissages, Activité physique et Santé (LINP2-2APS), Paris Nanterre, Paris, France

 

Background

To control the COVID-19 pandemic, French governments have implemented restrictions. In France, the first lockdown period was an unprecedent experience in several aspects. First, most people have to stay in their dwelling place for an exceptionally long period, with a potential psychological impact. Second, there was a limited access to food resources by closing markets and restricting travel. 

 

Hypotheses/Research Questions

In this context, our study aimed to explore the evolution of dietary choices and specifically micronutritional intakes involved in the optimal functioning of the brain and put it in perspective with, on the one hand, the evolution of psychological resources (life satisfaction and level of optimism) and on the other hand, health disturbances related to Brain Function.

 

Sample Characteristics and Sample Size

Two hundred and sixty-eight volunteers participated in this study (74 men and 194 women). 

Design

 They answered an online questionnaire sent during confinement and agreed to provide a subjective assessment of the evolution of items about before and during confinement.

Results

 Results showed significant differences in positive psychology measures and health disturbances related to catecholamines, iron and magnesium status. The evolution of the consumption of fruits and vegetables seems to play a role, especially by their antioxidant activity. 

Scientific Contribution

 In this article, we illustrate the importance of dietary choices for positive mental health during lockdown period.

Key words : positive psychology, micronutrients, mental health, psychological resources, covid-19


 

  • Keywords: Coping and Emotion Regulation, Health and Medicine, Neuroscience