TAM CONCERNED OVER CANADIANS’ INTAKE OF ALCOHOL, JUNK FOOD

Canada’s top health officer on Sunday expressed concern over higher consumption of alcohol and junk food during the coronavirus epidemic, suggesting this could be a sign of worsening mental health. “I am concerned about Canadians’ mental health ... more Canadians have increased their consumption of alcohol and junk food or sweets since the beginning of the pandemic,” chief public health

officer Theresa Tam said in a statement. Tam, citing the results of a recent Statistics Canada survey about the effects of the pandemic, said mental health must be a priority. “While social interactions and activities might look different right now, Canadians should be actively looking for safe ways to socialize, engage in physical activity and make ... healthy food choices,” she said.