The Israeli public has suffered multiple negative effects on health-related behavior due to the Iran war, according to the results of a study published by the Hebrew University School of Public Policy.
The non-peer-reviewed research, led by Dr. Roni Lotan and Prof. Eyal Peer from the “For a Change” Lab, found that nearly two-thirds of Israelis have experienced a "sharp decline" in overall physical activity and a reduction in sleep duration.
In addition, the study found an increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods, with just over half of participants reporting increased intake of sweets, pastries, and similar foods. This coincided with a similarly sized decrease in produce consumption, while alcohol consumption also rose.
Notably, the study found no correlation between increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and decreased consumption of produce, attributing the former to a general increase in food intake.
The study noted that the war's impact on the consumption of food was more pronounced among female participants than among their male counterparts.
However, a correlation was observed between increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and reduced physical activity, with those struggling with loss of sleep reporting both.
Smokers were also found to have increased their daily cigarette use, though the study cautioned that the sample size was relatively small.
The research found that one of the most significant factors contributing to negative health effects was siren frequency, which was correlated with reduced sleep and lower physical activity.
Children among those affected by war
Around half of participating parents reported that their children had increased their consumption of ultra-processed foods and had reduced both physical activity and sleep duration.
Also, children aged 2–10 were found to have increased screen time, according to 85% of participating parents.
The study noted that these findings were "clustered," suggesting that the war did not affect isolated behaviors but rather led to a simultaneous deterioration in children's health across multiple areas.
Notably, parents with young children were found to have experienced a lower increase in their alcohol consumption than those without, suggesting the children served as a sort of "protective factor."
According to epidemiologist and clinical dietitian Dr. Roni Lotan, the findings highlight the urgent need for targeted health interventions during emergencies.
Lotan, who specializes in behavioral health, suggested facilitating access to home-based physical activity, shaping healthier family food environments, and supporting parents in maintaining structured daily routines for their children.