A study by Israeli researchers has found that stress from the ongoing war is driving worse sleep, diet, exercise, and screen habits in both adults and children. The research, conducted by scientists at Tel Aviv University and other institutions, surveyed over 1,000 participants between October and December 2023, during the early months of the Israel-Hamas war.
The findings, published in the journal BMC Public Health in February 2024, showed that 70% of adults reported poor sleep quality, 60% reported increased consumption of junk food, and 55% reported reduced physical activity. Among children, 65% had increased screen time, and 50% reported worse eating habits.
Lead researcher Dr. Yael Ben-Haim said, 'The chronic stress of the war is having a measurable impact on health behaviors. We are seeing a population that is eating worse, sleeping less, and moving less, which could have long-term health consequences.'
The study also noted that these changes were more pronounced in families living closer to conflict zones, such as in southern Israel near Gaza. The researchers called for public health interventions to address these issues, including promoting healthy eating and physical activity even during times of conflict.
