Emma Laing
Emma Laing, clinical associate professor and director of dietetics in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, was quoted in a U.S. News & World Report article about staying slim during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The article warns that people who are social distancing—and closer to the fridge, pantry and couch—should be careful about overeating and not getting enough exercise or water. As people continue to adjust to a new normal of working from home, home-schooling kids and taking care of loved ones, stress can develop and exacerbate these problems.
“These tasks have been added to our many other responsibilities,” said Laing. “So, if something has to give as we strive to find our new normal, routines surrounding eating and physical activity might go out the window.”
To combat this, Laing suggests setting specific time for exercise and meals during the day.
“In creating this schedule, do so while maintaining flexibility,” Laing said. “It’s important to trust our bodies’ cues for hunger, so listen to those first.”
The article says that other simple ways to stay active include playing with pets, finding workouts online or through free apps, playing games with the family and even cleaning the house.