Post-COVID conditions (PCC) are characterized by persistent symptoms after the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection, including fatigue and neurological, sensory, and metabolic changes. Anosmia and ageusia—common symptoms—directly affect food preferences and may lead to excessive intake of salt and seasonings, resulting in weight gain and nutritional imbalances. Therefore, investigating the effects of PCC on food and sensory preferences is relevant to support nutritional and rehabilitation strategies that improve patients’ quality of life.

To analyze the association between PCC and self-reported sensory disturbances (loss of smell and taste), increased consumption of added salt, and changes in body weight after the acute phase of COVID-19 infection.

This is a partial analysis of an analytical observational case-control study using a randomized sample from notifications of mild COVID-19 (e-SUS Notifica) and moderate/severe COVID-19 (SIVEP-Gripe) reported in selected Brazilian municipalities between 2022 and 2024. Questionnaires were administered by telephone, and data were entered into REDCap. Individuals who did not report PCC composed the control group (CG), whereas those who reported PCC composed the case group (PCCG). Descriptive analyses and association tests (Pearson’s chi-square) were performed, with significance level set at p < 0.05.

A total of 237 volunteers were included: 163 (68.8%) in the control group and 74 (31.2%) in the PCC group. Comparing groups, 41.9% of individuals with PCC reported weight gain, whereas only 12.9% of controls reported this change (p < 0.0001). The PCC group also showed a higher frequency of reports of changes in food preferences after acute illness (10.8% vs 2.5% in controls, p > 0.006), changes in smell and taste (40.5% vs 17.8%, p < 0.0002), and changes in the amount of salt added to meals (27.0% vs 12.9%, p < 0.0076).

Our findings demonstrate a significant association between PCC and sensory and behavioral changes, including loss of smell and taste, greater salt addition to meals, and weight gain. These results reinforce the importance of nutritional follow-up and sensory rehabilitation for patients with PCC, in order to minimize metabolic impacts and promote healthy eating habits.