ATTITUDES TOWARD SUPPLEMENTATION AND PRACTICE OF VITAMIN C USE AMONG ADULTS BEFORE AND DURING COVID-19

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: The rapid spread of COVID-19 influenced the increase in the consumption of supplements as complementary therapy due to the fact that their efficacy has been proven in the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases due to their antimicrobial and immunomodulating activity. Purpose: This study aimed to assess attitudes towards health supplements and measure the level of vitamin C use before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. Method and material: The paper is a cross-sectional analytical study prepared during the period April-September 2022. The data was obtained through a questionnaire which was distributed to people aged 18 and over living in the region of Ferizaj. Descriptive analysis was carried out to present the attitudes to supplement use and vitamin C consumption practice, including frequency, duration and preferred dosage form, etc. Results: 500 individuals participated in the study. The results revealed that the pandemic significantly changed the participants’ attitude towards the importance of DS in supporting good health, increasing from 74.0% before the pandemic to 80.6% during the pandemic ( p =0.01). A 5.6% increase difference was shown during the pandemic compared to before in the attitude towards the use of preparations for strengthening immunity. Three quarters of respondents (76%) reported consuming vitamin C during the pandemic, 50% had consumed it before the pandemic. Estimated weekly or daily intake of vitamin C increased significantly during the pandemic period m (p=.0000) Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the changing attitudes of respondents towards the use of supplements to strengthen the immune system during a pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period. Taken together, the practice of taking vitamin C showed an increase that reflects increased health awareness and fear of illness.