Sarcopenic obesity definitions and their associations with physical frailty in older Brazilian adults: data from the SARCOS study

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the obesity diagnosis with the highest association with physical frailty associated with sarcopenia EWGSOP II (sarcopenic obesity). Subjects and methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 371 community-dwelling older adults. Appendicular skeletal lean mass and total body fat (TBF) were assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and physical frailty was defined using Fried's criteria. The phenotypes were identified according to the presence of sarcopenia by EWGSOP II and obesity, which was diagnosed using two concepts: BMI obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) and TBF obesity (percentage of TBF ≥ 35% for women and ≥ 25% for men). Finally, the association of each group with physical frailty was evaluated. Results: The mean age was 78.15 ± 7.22 years. Sarcopenia EWGSOP II was diagnosed in 19.8% (n = 73), body mass index obesity was identified in 21.8% (n = 81), TBF obesity was identified in 67.7% (n = 251), and physical frailty was identified in 38.5% (n = 142). In a regression analysis for frailty, sarcopenic TBF obesity presented an odds ratio of 6.88 (95% confidence interval 2.60-18.24; p < 0.001). Conclusion: In older Brazilian adults, sarcopenic obesity diagnosed by TBF obesity has a robust association with frailty and is independent of body mass index.

Sarcopenic obesity definitions and their associations with physical frailty in older Brazilian adults: data from the SARCOS study.

Objective: To identify the obesity diagnosis with the highest association with physical frailty associated with sarcopenia EWGSOP II (sarcopenic obesity). Subjects and methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis of 371 community-dwelling older adults. Appendicular skeletal lean mass and total body fat (TBF) were assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, and physical frailty was defined using Fried's criteria. The phenotypes were identified according to the presence of sarcopenia by EWGSOP II and obesity, which was diagnosed using two concepts: BMI obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) and TBF obesity (percentage of TBF ≥ 35% for women and ≥ 25% for men). Finally, the association of each group with physical frailty was evaluated. Results: The mean age was 78.15 ± 7.22 years. Sarcopenia EWGSOP II was diagnosed in 19.8% (n = 73), body mass index obesity was identified in 21.8% (n = 81), TBF obesity was identified in 67.7% (n = 251), and physical frailty was identified in 38.5% (n = 142). In a regression analysis for frailty, sarcopenic TBF obesity presented an odds ratio of 6.88 (95% confidence interval 2.60-18.24; p < 0.001). Conclusion: In older Brazilian adults, sarcopenic obesity diagnosed by TBF obesity has a robust association with frailty and is independent of body mass index.

Chronic diseases, chest computed tomography, and laboratory tests as predictors of severe respiratory failure and death in elderly Brazilian patients hospitalized with COVID-19: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The primary risk factors for severe respiratory failure and death in the elderly hospitalized with COVID-19 remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: To determine the association of chronic diseases, chest computed tomography (CT), and laboratory tests with severe respiratory failure and mortality in older adults hospitalized with COVID-19. METHOD: This was a prospective cohort with 201 hospitalized older adults with COVID-19. Chronic diseases, chest CT, laboratory tests, and other data were collected within the first 48 h of hospitalization. Outcomes were progression to severe respiratory failure with the need of mechanical ventilation (SRF/MV) and death. RESULTS: The mean age was 72.7 ± 9.2 years, and 63.2% were men. SRF/MV occurred in 16.9% (p < 0.001), and death occurred in 8%. In the adjusted regression analyses, lung involvement over 50% [odds ratio (OR): 3.09 (1.03-9.28; 0.043)], C-reactive protein (CRP) > 80 ng/mL [OR: 2.97 (0.99-8.93; 0.052)], Vitamin D < 40 ng/mL [OR: 6.41 (1.21-33.88; 0.029)], and hemoglobin < 12 g/mL [OR: 3.32 (1.20-9.20; 0.020)] were independent predictors for SFR/MV, while chronic atrial fibrillation [OR: 26.72 (3.87-184.11; 0.001)], cancer history [OR:8.32 (1.28-53.91; 0.026)] and IL-6 > 40 pg/mL [OR:10.01 (1.66-60.13; 0.012)] were independent predictors of death. CONCLUSION: In hospitalized older adults with COVID-19, tomographic pulmonary involvement > 50%, anemia, vitamin D below 40 ng/mL, and CRP above 80 mg/L were independent risk factors for progression to SRF/MV. The presence of chronic atrial fibrillation, previous cancer, IL-6 > 40 pg/mL, and anemia were independent predictors of death.

Measuring forearm bone density instead of lumbar spine bone density improves the sensitivity of diagnosing osteoporosis in older adults with cardiovascular diseases: Data from SARCOS study.

INTRODUCTION: In older individuals with cardiovascular diseases, it has been challenging to diagnose osteoporosis due to aortic calcification and degenerative processes in the spine of older adults, especially in very old adults. AIM: To assess whether the distal forearm BMD with the proximal femur BMD has greater sensitivity for the diagnosis of osteoporosis than the lumbar spine BMD with the proximal femur BMD. METHODS: We evaluated 515 older adults with cardiovascular disease from the SARCOS study and stratified them into under and over 80-year-old age groups and according to gender. Two diagnostic criteria were used to assess osteoporosis, SPF (lumbar spine and proximal femur BMD) and DFF (distal forearm and proximal femur BMD), which were compared with the multiple bone sites (MS) criteria (lumbar spine, distal radius, femoral neck, and total femur BMD). RESULTS: 43.9% were aged ≥80 years. Osteoporosis by SPF was diagnosed in 34% (n = 175), by DFF in 42.2% (n = 216), and by MS in 46.8% (n = 241). The characteristics of the three groups were similar. For every 100 older individuals with osteoporosis based on MS, 27 were not diagnosed by the SPF, and nine were not diagnosed by DFF (p = 0.001). The SPF did not diagnose osteoporosis in 23/100 in older adults aged <80 years, while DFF did not diagnose 16/100 (p.ns). In adults aged ≥80 years, the SPF did not identify osteoporosis in 31/100 older adults, while the DFF failed to identify it in only 5/100 (p < 0.001). In men and women aged ≥80 years, DFF showed higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of osteoporosis compared to the SPF criterion. CONCLUSION: In the elderly population with cardiovascular disease evaluated in our study, the use of distal forearm BMD instead of lumbar spine BMD, associated with proximal femur BMD, showed higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of osteoporosis, regardless of gender, and especially among the very older adults.

Guidelines for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: an update of Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (2020).

The Brazilian guidelines for prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis were updated and important topics were included such as assessment of risk fracture using FRAX Brazil, use of denosumab, and also recommendations for the use of glucocorticoid pulse therapy and inhaled glucocortiocoid. INTRODUCTION: Glucocorticoids (GCs) are used in almost all medical specialties and the incidences of vertebral/nonvertebral fractures range from 30 to 50% in individuals treated with GCs for over 3 months. Thus, osteoporosis and frailty fractures should be prevented and treated in patients initiating treatment or already being treated with GCs. The Committee for Osteoporosis and Bone Metabolic Disorders of the Brazilian Society of Rheumatology (BSR) established in 2012 the Brazilian Guidelines for glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO). Herein, we provide a comprehensive update of the original guidelines based on improved available scientific evidence and/or expert experience. METHODS: From March to June 2020, the Osteoporosis Committee of the BRS had meetings to update the questions presented in the first consensus (2012). Thus, twenty-six questions considered essential for the preparation of the recommendations were selected. A systematic literature review based on real-life scenarios was undertaken to answer the proposed questions. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were searched using specific search keywords. RESULTS: Based on the review and expert opinion, the recommendations were updated for each of the 26 questions. We included 48 new bibliographic references that became available after the date of the publication of the first version of the consensus. CONCLUSION: We updated the Brazilian guidelines for the prevention/treatment of GIO. New topics were added in this update, such as the assessment of risk fracture using FRAX Brazil, the use of denosumab, and approaches for the treatment of children and adolescents. Furthermore, we included recommendations for the use of inhaled GCs and GC pulse therapy in clinical settings.

Controle de si e cuidado de si: uma reflexão sobre a ciência da nutrição / Self control and self care: a reflection on nutrition science

Introdução: a Ciência da Nutrição funda-se sob o paradigma médico cartesiano, baseado na visão biologicista, intervencionista e centrada no especialista. O nutricionista, em sua prática clínica atua de modo prescritivo, punitivo e, configura-se como maneiras de controlar o paciente. Percebe-se atualmente, outras formas de abordar o paciente, da relação entre especialistas e leigos e de praticar a Nutrição Clínica que interessam a esse estudo. Objetivo: esse artigo promoveu uma reflexão crítica de práticas atuais na nutrição clínica. Método: estudo conceitual realizado a partir de uma revisão bibliográfica com autores das áreas da Nutrição e Ciências Humanas e Sociais, com foco na teoria de Michel Foucault, em especial, nos seus conceitos de controle de si e cuidado de si. Resultados: os autores mobilizados alertam para uma crise nas abordagens prescritivas, intensificando a falta de adesão dos interagentes e resultados ineficazes. Entretanto, a atuação do Nutricionista tende a ter maior relevância, visto que as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis ligadas à alimentação aumentam vertiginosamente. Nesse cenário, há diversos fatores que contribuem para a manutenção dessa crise como: a mídia, a cultura da dieta, o sistema agroalimentar e as políticas que atuam como mecanismos de poder e controle. Conclusão: Existem modelos alternativos ao paradigma hegemônico que estabelecem uma relação baseada no cuidado e se fundamentam em princípios como: autonomia, respeito às individualidades e subjetividades e ao papel ativo do interagente, ao profissional cabe ser o facilitador do processo. É imprescindível o desenvolvimento de habilidades e competências humanas não contempladas nos cursos de graduação. (AU)

Introduction: Nutrition Science is based on the Cartesian medical paradigm, based on the biologicist, interventionist and specialist-centered vision. The nutritionist, in his clinical practice, acts in a prescriptive, punitive way and is configured as ways to control the patient. Currently, there are other ways of approaching the patient, of the relationship between specialists and lay people and of practicing Clinical Nutrition that are of interest to this study. Objective: this article promoted a critical reflection of current practices in clinical nutrition. Method: conceptual study based on a bibliographic review with authors from the areas of Nutrition and Human and Social Sciences, focusing on Michel Foucault's theory, especially on his concepts of self-control and self-care. Results: the mobilized authors warn of a crisis in prescriptive approaches, intensifying the lack of adherence by interactants and ineffective results. However, the performance of the Nutritionist tends to be more relevant, since chronic non-communicable diseases linked to food increase dramatically. In this scenario, there are several factors that contribute to the maintenance of this crisis, such as: the media, the culture of the diet, the agri-food system and the policies that act as mechanisms of power and control. Conclusion: There are alternative models to the hegemonic paradigm that establish a relationship based on care and are based on principles such as: autonomy, respect for individualities and subjectivities and the active role of the interactant, the professional should be the facilitator of the process. It is essential to develop human skills and competences not covered in undergraduate courses. (AU)

Inspeção sanitária de produtos de origem animal: o debate sobre qualidade de alimentos no Brasil / Sanitary inspection of animal products: discussing food quality in Brazil

Resumo No Rock in Rio de 2017 a Vigilância Sanitária apreendeu, por falta do selo federal de inspeção sanitária, mais de 160kg de produtos de origem animal, incluindo queijos e linguiças artesanais, de uma renomada chef brasileira. Este evento reacendeu o debate sobre a qualidade dos alimentos no país. Neste artigo, propomos uma discussão sobre a inspeção de produtos animais no Brasil e defendemos um conceito amplo de qualidade, utilizando um método que se baseia na proposta de ensaio de Adorno. Apresentamos o cenário nacional da inspeção, definindo responsabilidades governamentais, conflitos de interesses e propostas em andamento para revisar as normativas específicas vigentes. Em seguida, abordamos a ampliação do conceito de qualidade de alimentos, contextualizando-o no movimento contemporâneo intitulado quality turn. Por fim, apontamos os desafios do cenário político brasileiro e destacamos a necessidade das reformas epistemológica, política e ética para o debate sobre a qualidade de alimentos visando a promover a segurança alimentar e nutricional da população brasileira.

Abstract In 2017, at Rock in Rio, Sanitary Surveillance seized more than 160 kg of animal products, including cheese and hand-crafted sausages, from a renowned Brazilian chef for lack of a federal sanitary inspection stamp. This event rekindled the debate on food quality in the country. In this paper, we discuss animal products' inspection in Brazil and advocate for a broad concept of quality. Our method relays on Adorno's essay proposal. We present the national scenario of the inspection, defining governmental responsibilities, conflicts of interest, and undergoing proposals to review current laws. Then we approach the expansion of the concept of food quality, contextualizing it in the contemporary movement called "quality turn". Lastly, we indicate the challenges of the Brazilian political scenario and highlight the epistemological, political and ethical reforms needed for the debate on food quality to promote the Food and Nutrition Security of the Brazilian population.

In Vitro TNF-α Inhibitory Activity of Brazilian Plants and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Stryphnodendron adstringens in an Acute Arthritis Model.

Stryphnodendron species, popularly named "barbatimão," are traditionally used in Brazil as anti-inflammatory agents. This study aimed to investigate the effect of barbatimão and 11 other species on the production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) stimulated THP-1 cells, as well as their anti-arthritis activity. The extracts of Stryphnodendron adstringens, Stryphnodendron obovatum, Campomanesia lineatifolia, and Terminalia glabrescens promoted a concentration-dependent inhibition of TNF-α. Mice injected with LPS in the knee joint were treated per os with fractions from the selected extracts. Both the organic (SAO) and the aqueous (SAA) fractions of S. adstringens promoted a dose-dependent reduction of leukocyte migration and neutrophil accumulation into the joint, but none of them reduced CXCL1 concentration in the periarticular tissue. In contrast, treatment with C. lineatifolia and T. glabrescens fractions did not ameliorate the inflammatory parameters. Analyses of SAO by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) led to the identification of gallic acid along with 11 prodelphinidins, characterized as monomers and dimers of the B-type. Our findings contribute to some extent to corroborating the traditional use of S. adstringens as an anti-inflammatory agent. This activity is probably related to a decrease of leukocyte migration into the inflammatory site. Polyphenols like gallic acid and prodelphinidins, identified in the active fraction, may contribute to the observed activity.

"Não há tempo... A perder": questões sobre a atuação do Psicanalista no hospital geral / "No time to lose": questions about Psychoanalyst s work in general hospital / "No hay tiempo... Que perder": cuestiones acerca de las operaciones del psicoanalista em el hospital general

O objetivo deste artigo é esclarecer como o psicanalista pode dar condições ao sujeito, em situação de urgência, subjetivar a angústia que o imobiliza. Nossa hipótese é que a estratégia do tempo lógico de Jacques Lacan é um importante recurso psicanalítico nesse momento em que a angústia implica em uma ruptura simbólica. O manejo do tempo lógico permite restaurar um tratamento da presença do objeto da angústia, convocando o paciente a respondê-la a partir de sua condição de sujeito. Neste sentido, este artigo problematiza a função do analista em casos limites tratados em Centros de Terapia Intensiva, demonstrando a importância de se considerar à função do analista diante de algo que urge e precipita o sujeito na angústia.

The aim of this paper is to clarify how the psychoanalyst can give conditions to the subject, in an urgent situation, subjectify the anguish that immobilizes him. Our hypothesis is that the logical time strategy of Jacques Lacan is an important psychoanalytic resource in this time when the anxiety implies a symbolic break. The management of logical time allows to restore a treatment from the presence of anguish object, calling the patient to answer it from its condition of subject. In this sense, this article problematizes the analysts role in limiting cases treated in an Intensive Therapy Centers, demonstrating the importance of considering the role of the analyst in the face of something that urges and precipitates the subject in anguish.

El objetivo de este trabajo es aclarar cómo el psicoanalista puede dar condiciones para el sujeto, en una situación de urgencia, subjetivar la angustia que lo inmoviliza. Nuestra hipótesis es que la estrategia de tiempo lógico de Jacques Lacan es un recurso psicoanalítico importante en este momento en que la ansiedad implica una ruptura simbólica. La gestión del tiempo lógico permite restaurar un tratamiento de la presencia del objeto angustia, llamando a la paciente para responder a ella a partir de su condición de sujeto. En este sentido, este artículo problematiza el papel del analista en la los casos limites tratados en un centros de terapia intensiva, lo que demuestra laimportancia de considerar el papel del analista en la cara de algo que urge y precipita el sujeto en la angustia.

Estamos seguros? Reflexões sobre indicadores de avaliação da segurança alimentar e nutricional / Are we secure? Reflections on indicators for evaluating food and nutritional security

O conceito de segurança alimentar e nutricional, construído coletivamente no cenário brasileiro, apresenta-se como um elemento catalizador de importantes reflexões na área de Nutrição Social. Este texto tem como objetivo refletir sobre as formas e os indicadores de avaliação em segurança alimentar e nutricional no Brasil. Esta breve reflexão se debruça sobre os desafios dos especialistas e pesquisadores da área em questão para abarcar seus princípios interdisciplinares; além disso, espera motivar o interesse pela elaboração de novos indicadores de avaliação e de metodologias e instrumentos de coleta de informação mais abrangentes e sistêmicos. Julga-se importante promover a reflexão sobre as limitações das escalas de mensuração da (in)segurança alimentar e nutricional em apontar e abarcar as complementaridades entre a vivência dessa insegurança e os processos e agentes de produção do fenômeno. Ressalta-se como desejável a inclusão da leitura do processo saúde-doença e o cuidado das morbidades resultantes da insegurança alimentar e nutricional como questões a serem exploradas em futuros estudos dessa temática.

The concept of food security, collectively constructed in the Brazilian scenario, is considered an important element to promote reflections in the area of Social Nutrition. This article aims to reflect on the evaluation indicators for food and nutrition security in Brazil. This brief reflection focuses on the challenges of experts and researchers in food and nutritional security to embrace its interdisciplinary principles. One expects to motivate the interest in developing new indicators and evaluation methodologies and more comprehensive and systemic instruments to collect information about food insecurity. It is deemed important to promote reflection on the limitations of the scales of measurement of food and nutrition (in)security in pointing and covering the complementarities between the experience of such insecurity and the processes and agents that produce this phenomenon. Issues to be explored in future studies are the inclusion of understanding the health-disease process and the care of morbidity resulting from food and nutrition insecurity.

Cardápios e sustentabilidade: ensaio sobre as diretrizes do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar / Menus and sustainability: Essay on the guidelines of the National School Food Program

O Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar é uma das políticas públicas brasileiras que têm estabelecido estreito diálogo com os princípios da Política Nacional de Segurança Alimentar e Nutricional e da Agroecologia. Diretrizes de execução, alinhadas com a temática da sustentabilidade, foram estabelecidas pela Lei nº 11.947, promulgada em julho de 2009, que estipula recursos para a compra de alimentos produzidos pela agricultura familiar, preferencialmente orgânicos, revelando preocupações ambientais e sociais, voltadas ao desenvolvimento da economia local. Este artigo objetivou refletir sobre a elaboração do cardápio instituído nas diretrizes de execução do Programa, com ênfase nos elementos que podem indicar a alimentação escolar como promotora de sistemas alimentares ecológicos e de desenvolvimento local sustentável. Ressalta-se que, apesar do avanço das diretrizes, é necessário fortalecer estratégias para resgatar hábitos alimentares e produzir alimentos compatíveis com tais diretrizes, além de planejar cardápios que contemplem a diversidade e sazonalidade de alimentos regionais e o mapeamento de agricultores ecológicos para nortear a demanda e a oferta programadas. A gestão da compra e da logística, assim como o apoio governamental ao Programa e o controle social por parte da comunidade escolar, além da sensibilização e educação continuada de técnicos e profissionais da área de alimentação escolar, são fundamentais para que os cardápios escolares dialoguem com a sustentabilidade. Experiências exitosas e pesquisas com base na análise dessas diretrizes devem ser incentivadas, para possibilitar o fortalecimento do Programa.

The National School Food Program is one of the Brazilian public policies which has established an intimate dialog with the principles of the National Food and Nutrition Security Policy and Agroecology. Execution guidelines aligned with the theme of sustainability were established in the program via Law nº 11.947, enacted in July 2009, which stipulates resources for the purchasing of food (preferentially organic) produced by family farms, demonstrating environmental and social concerns as well as those related to the development of the local economy. The aim of this paper is to reflect on the theme of menu design incorporated in the execution guidelines of the School Food Program with emphasis on the elements that can highlight school meals as a promoter of ecological food systems and local sustainable development. It is noted that despite the advance represented by the guidelines, there is a need to strengthen the strategies to recover food habits and for the production of foods compatible with these guidelines, along with actions related to menu planning considering the diversity and seasonality of regional food products and the mapping of ecological farmers to guide the programmed demand and supply of these products. The management of the purchasing and logistics, government support of the program and its social control by the school community, along with constant raising of awareness and training for professionals acting in the area of school meals are fundamental for school meals to enter a dialog with sustainability. Successful experiences and research based on the analysis of these guidelines should be encouraged to enable the strengthening of the program.

Agricultura urbana agroecológica - estratégia de promoção da saúde e segurança alimentar e nutricional / Agroecological urban agriculture - strategy for health promotion and food and nutrition security

Objetivo: Realizar uma reflexão acerca da agricultura urbana agroecológica articulada aos movimentos de promoção da saúde e de segurança alimentar e nutricional, com a participação das comunidades locais. Síntese dos dados: Pesquisa documental realizada por meio da leitura e análise de relatório, de registros de atividades de campo, de depoimentos de participantes e entrevista realizada com a coordenação do projeto. Percebeu-se a contribuição da agricultura urbana agroecológica no protagonismo comunitário, na participação popular e no desenvolvimento da consciência alimentar e ambiental dos atores sociais envolvidos. Conclusões: Foram identificados aspectos relevantes e em consonância com os princípios e campos de atuação da Promoção da Saúde, em especial, o fortalecimento da intersetorialidade, o empoderamento local, o protagonismo individual e coletivo, a criação de ambientes saudáveis e a mobilização comunitária.

Objective: To raise considerations about the agroecological urban agriculture, in articulation with movements for promotion of health and food and nutrition security, with participation of local communities. Data synthesis: Documental research carried out through the reading and analysis of report, field activities’ records, participants’ testimonies and interview performed with the project coordinator. The contribution of agroecological urban agriculture was perceivable in regard to the community protagonism, popular participation, and the rising of feeding and environmental awareness among social actors. Conclusion: Relevant aspects in consonance with the principles and fields of action of Health Promotion were identified, especially the strengthening of intersetorial actions, the local community empowerment, individual and collective protagonism, creation of health-friendly environments and community mobilization.

[Organic foods and human health: a study of controversies]. / Alimentos orgânicos e saúde humana: estudo sobre as controvérsias.

The study of controversies is a methodological tool that generates knowledge about the social and political dimensions of science. This approach can be used to understand and explore the topic of organic foods. The present study aimed to analyze the controversies regarding the status of organic foods. We carried out a review of studies published since 1990 in three websites: International Foundation for Organic Agriculture, Soil Association, and Food and Agriculture Organization. The following controversies were identified: 1) effects on human health of the presence of chemical contaminants in organic foods; 2) the quality of organic foods as compared to conventionally grown foods; and 3) price of organic foods. Based on this review, it is possible to conclude that, even though organic foods stand out for their low toxicity, higher durability, and nutritional content of some items, more comparative studies are required to confirm the nutritional superiority of organic foods and to solve the controversies. The discussion must be contextualized within a broad spectrum of health promotion, in which organic farming appears associated with the support for small farming, biodiversity, and local sustainable development, so as to increase offer and demand for organic products at fair prices for individual and institutional consumers.

[Agroecology and health promotion in Brazil]. / Agroecologia e promoção da saúde no Brasil.

OBJECTIVE: Research how specialists in health promotion and agroecology understand the concepts in those areas of common guidelines and how the relationship between such concepts is conceived. METHODS. Qualitative research. Fourteen specialists in the two areas were interviewed about the relationship between the agrofood system and health, concepts of agroecology and health promotion, and the relevance of including agroecology in public health training courses and vice-versa. RESULTS: There is little dialogue between the fields of study that were considered similar, food quality being the main interface between the areas. agroecology appeared to be a system of healthy food production, but the study showed other connections: agroecology and empowerment, a spur to autonomy and quality of life, and better socioeconomic conditions for the farmer; agroecology and environmental health; agroecology and community involvement; agroecology, territoriality, and cultural rescue [translator's note: this is a term for measures taken to revitalize or preserve imperiled indigenous cultures]; and agroecology, local foods, and low costs of production. Health promotion already was linked in effect to practices oriented to healthy lifestyles. The specialists appeared favorable toward including knowledge about public health in agroecology and vice-versa. CONCLUSIONS: Agroecology and health promotion contribute to one another and are complementary, and bringing them closer together can lead to an enriched discussion about rural health and the concept of public policies that focus on this theme, thereby stimulating actions for improvement and intersectoral practices.

Alimentos orgânicos e saúde humana: estudo sobre as controvérsias / Organic foods and human health: a study of controversies

O estudo das controvérsias é uma ferramenta metodológica para o conhecimento das dimensões sociais e políticas da ciência. O tema dos alimentos orgânicos pode ser compreendido e explorado a partir dessa abordagem. O objetivo deste artigo foi analisar as controvérsias referentes ao status do alimento orgânico. A pesquisa foi realizada com base em referências a partir de 1990, citadas nos sites da International Foundation for Organic Agriculture, da Soil Association e da Food and Agriculture Organization. Foram identificadas controvérsias acerca 1) das repercussões sobre a saúde humana da existência de contaminantes químicos nos alimentos orgânicos; 2) da qualidade dos alimentos orgânicos em comparação aos convencionais; e 3) da temática referente ao preço dos alimentos orgânicos. O artigo conclui que, embora os alimentos orgânicos se destaquem por sua baixa toxicidade, maior durabilidade e teor de alguns nutrientes em alguns alimentos, mais estudos comparativos devem ser realizados para comprovar a superioridade do seu valor nutricional e para que as controvérsias se dissolvam. E preciso contextualizar a discussão em um amplo espectro de promoção da saúde, no qual a produção orgânica aparece vinculada ao fomento ao pequeno agricultor, à biodiversidade e ao desenvolvimento local sustentável, de modo a garantir o aumento da demanda e da oferta de produtos orgânicos a preços justos para consumidores individuais e institucionais.

The study of controversies is a methodological tool that generates knowledge about the social and political dimensions of science. This approach can be used to understand and explore the topic of organic foods. The present study aimed to analyze the controversies regarding the status of organic foods. We carried out a review of studies published since 1990 in three websites: International Foundation for Organic Agriculture, Soil Association, and Food and Agriculture Organization. The following controversies were identified: 1) effects on human health of the presence of chemical contaminants in organic foods; 2) the quality of organic foods as compared to conventionally grown foods; and 3) price of organic foods. Based on this review, it is possible to conclude that, even though organic foods stand out for their low toxicity, higher durability, and nutritional content of some items, more comparative studies are required to confirm the nutritional superiority of organic foods and to solve the controversies. The discussion must be contextualized within a broad spectrum of health promotion, in which organic farming appears associated with the support for small farming, biodiversity, and local sustainable development, so as to increase offer and demand for organic products at fair prices for individual and institutional consumers.

Contribuições para a construção da Nutrição Complementar Integrada / Contributions to the construction of Integrative and Complementary Nutrition / Contribuiciones para la construcción de la Nutrición Suplementaria Integrada

Toma-se por objeto a existência pouco estudada de outras racionalidades nutricionais distintas da biomédica, comumente inseridas nas chamadas práticas e medicinas tradicionais e/ou complementares. A hipótese é a de que essas outras lógicas alimentares são relevantes em si, merecem estudo, e sua tematização pode contribuir para a promoção da segurança alimentar e nutricional, a educação em saúde e o enriquecimento das práticas dos profissionais no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). O objetivo é contextualizar a aproximação dessas ideias e práticas e apresentar um primeiro desenvolvimento de tal hipótese. Revisita-se o modelo biomédico, dominante na nutrição, defendendo a necessidade de se ampliar essa perspectiva. Combinam-se a categoria "racionalidade médica" e as noções de modelos e correntes alimentares para um mapeamento preliminar das racionalidades e correntes alimentares em foco.

The present study approaches the existence of other nutritional rationalities which are distinct from the biomedical one and are often included in the so-called traditional and/or complementary medicine. The hypothesis is that these other eating rationalities are relevant in themselves, deserve to be studied and may contribute to promote Food Security, health education and the enrichment of professional practices in Brazil's Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS - National Health System). The goal is to contextualize the interaction of these ideas and practices, and present the initial development of such hypothesis. The biomedical model, which is dominant in the area of nutrition, is revisited, and the need to broaden this perspective is defended. The "medical rationality" category is combined with the notions of food chains and models, in order to perform an initial mapping of the rationalities and food chains under focus.

Tiene por objeto la existencia poco estudiada de otras razones nutricionales que no sean biomédicas, comúnmente insertas en las llamadas prácticas tradicionales o complementarias. La hipótesis es que estas otras lógicas alimentarias merecen un estudio y su tematización puede contribuir en la promoción de la seguridad alimentaria y nutricional, en la educación de la salud y el enriquecimiento de las prácticas profesionales en el Sistema Único de Salud de Brasil. El objetivo es contextuar la aproximación de las prácticas y presentar un desarrollo inicial de tal hipótesis. Revisa el modelo biomédico, dominante en la nutrición, con la defensa de la necesidad de ampliar esta perspectiva. Combina la "racionalidad médica" y los conceptos de cadenas y modelos alimentarios para una asignación preliminar de las racionalidades y cadenas alimentarias en foco.

Agroecologia e promoção da saúde no Brasil / Agroecology and health promotion in Brazil

Objetivo. Pesquisar como os especialistas da promoção de saúde e da agroecologia compreendemos conceitos dessas áreas de diretrizes comuns e como é concebida a relação entre tais conceitos. Métodos. Pesquisa qualitativa. Foram realizadas entrevistas com 14 especialistas das duas áreas sobre relações entre sistema agroalimentar e saúde; conceitos de agroecologia e promoção da saúde; relevância da inserção da agroecologia nos cursos de formação de saúde pública e vice-versa. Resultados. Existe pouco diálogo entre os campos de estudo que foram considerados afins,sendo a qualidade do alimento a principal interface entre as áreas. A agroecologia apareceu como um sistema de produção de alimentos saudáveis, mas o estudo mostrou outras relações: agroecologia e empowerment, fomento à autonomia e qualidade de vida e melhores condições socioeconômicas para o agricultor; agroecologia e saúde ambiental; agroecologia e participaçãosocial; agroecologia, territorialidade e resgate cultural; agroecologia, alimentos locais e baixo custo produtivo. Já a promoção de saúde foi essencialmente relacionada a práticas voltadas à manutenção de estilos de vida saudável. Os especialistas mostraram-se favoráveis à inserçãode conhecimentos da área da saúde pública na agroecologia e vice-versa.Conclusões. A agroecologia e a promoção da saúde são áreas contributivas e complementares, cuja aproximação pode vir a enriquecer a discussão da saúde rural e a concepção das políticas públicas que se debruçam sobre essa temática, estimulando intervenções e práticas intersetoriais.

Objective. Research how specialists in health promotion and agroecology understand the concepts in those areas of common guidelines and how the relationship between such concepts is conceived. Methods. Qualitative research. Fourteen specialists in the two areas were interviewed about the relationship between the agrofood system and health, concepts ofagroecology and health promotion, and the relevance of including agroecology inpublic health training courses and vice-versa. Results. There is little dialogue between the fields of study that were consideredsimilar, food quality being the main interface between the areas. agroecology appearedto be a system of healthy food production, but the study showed other connections:agroecology and empowerment, a spur to autonomy and quality of life,and better socioeconomic conditions for the farmer; agroecology and environmental health; agroecology and community involvement; agroecology, territoriality, and cultural rescue [translator’s note: this is a term for measures taken to revitalize orpreserve imperiled indigenous cultures]; and agroecology, local foods, and low costs of production. Health promotion already was linked in effect to practices oriented to healthy lifestyles. The specialists appeared favorable toward including knowledgeabout public health in agroecology and vice-versa. Conclusions. Agroecology and health promotion contribute to one another and are complementary, and bringing them closer together can lead to an enriched discussion about rural health and the concept of public policies that focus on this theme, therebystimulating actions for improvement and intersectoral practices.

Práticas intersetoriais nas políticas públicas de promoção de saúde / Intersectoral practices in public policies for health promotion

Esta revisão analisa algumas políticas públicas estabelecidas entre 2006 e 2010 que dialogam com as diretrizes da Promoção da Saúde, de modo a investigar como a intersetorialidade perpassa suas ações. A intersetorialidade tem o potencial de revitalizar tais políticas, estimulando ações promotoras da saúde que contemplem os complexos condicionantes do processo saúde-doença. Entretanto, evidenciam-se alguns problemas para atingir esse desafio. Destacam-se o despreparo político e técnico de gestores e profissionais da saúde para assumir ações intersetoriais e questões de ordem administrativa que dificultam a execução integrada de ações. Tal despreparo leva, entre outros danos, à falta de reconhecimento de alguns dos temas das políticas como questões legítimas de Saúde Coletiva. Além disso, permanecem em muitas das agendas das políticas, decisões centralizadas que impedem a participação da comunidade e o surgimento de problemas ajustados às realidades locais, cujas soluções exigem intervenções intersetoriais e criativas. Assim, torna-se essencial fomentar um efetivo processo educativo interdisciplinar que forme profissionais da saúde com visão intersetorial em sintonia com as diretrizes das políticas públicas de promoção da saúde. Também é importante valorizar a dimensão territorial e as redes sociais, potencializando processos participativos que ampliem a perspectiva intersetorial dessas políticas, bem como estimular a ativação do sujeito nos processos decisórios.

This review examines some public policies established between 2006 and 2010 that dialogue with the guidelines of Health Promotion, in order to investigate how intersectorality permeates their actions. Intersectoriality is able to revitalize such policies, encouraging health promotion actions that address the complex determinants of the disease process. However, some problems showed up to meet this challenge. Noteworthy is the unpreparedness of political and technical managers and health professionals to take intersectoral actions and administrative matters that hinder the implementation of integrated actions. This unpreparedness leads, among other damages, to the lack of recognition of some themes of the policies as legitimate questions of public health. Moreover, many remain in the policy agendas, centralized decisions that prevent community participation and the emergence of problems adjusted to local realities, whose solutions require intersectoral and creative interventions. Thus, it becomes essential to foster an effective educational process to form interdisciplinary health professionals with intersectoral viewpoint in line with the guidelines of public policies to promote health. It is also important to highlight the territorial dimension and social networks, improving participatory processes that enhance the intersectoral perspective of these policies, as well as to stimulate the activation of the subject in decision making.