The Impact of the Economic Crisis on the Eating Behavior and Lifestyle of the Young Lebanese Population

The onset of an economic crisis can have a tremendous influence on many aspects of life, including food consumption, lifestyle behaviors, purchasing items, and overall anxiety level. To cope with the challenging circumstances, individuals and family members regularly implement significant shifts in their lifestyles and habits. Lebanon began experiencing one of the most catastrophic economic downturns in the country's recent past in 2019.

The current study aimed to assess the impact of the economic crisis on the young Lebanese population's dietary habits and lifestyle. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of the economic crisis on anxiety levels.

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 803 Lebanese individuals, mostly aged between 18 and 25 years, using a self-administered questionnaire in both Arabic and English. Descriptive statistics were used to report the demographic characteristics. Using inferential statistics, the variables' differentiating, association, and correlating characteristics were presented.

Results showed that fast food consumption decreased by 25% among those with low incomes and multimember households. Meat and seafood consumption dropped, while homemade food consumption rose by 75% of individuals’ income in Lebanese currency. Purchases of olive oil dropped by 25% in households with five or more members, while purchases of vegetable oil decreased by 50–75% for private businesses and private sector employees. Low-income individuals increased their smoking habits, but young adults lowered their caffeine usage. Furthermore, a significant decrease in physical activity was noticed.

Nutritional and lifestyle habits changed negatively as a result of the financial crisis; nevertheless, some positive habits were promoted during the crisis.