Higher serum uric acid is associated with body fat, retinol-binding protein 4, and antioxidative status in Brazilian children.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of serum uric acid (SUA) with adiposity, adipokines, and anti- and oxidative markers in Brazilian children. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional investigation with 378 children ages 8 to 9 y in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Information on sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics was obtained via questionnaires, and body fat was determined by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. We compared the distributions of adiposity (total and central), adipokines (adiponectin, chemerin, leptin, and retinol-binding protein 4 [RBP4]), anti- and oxidative markers (plasma ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and malondialdehyde [MDA]) by SUA categories using linear regression. RESULTS: SUA was positively associated with total and central fat. Every standard deviation (SD) of SUA was related, respectively, to a 3.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.4-4.4), 4 (95% CI, 2.8-5.1), 4.2 (95% CI, 2.9-5.5), and 3.5 (95% CI, 2.4-4.6) units higher of total, truncal, android, and gynoid fat. We found a positive association of SUA with RBP4 and FRAP, and a negative association with MDA. Every SD of SUA was related, respectively, to 0.1 (95% CI, 0.01-0.1) and 7.8 (95% CI, 5.5-10.1) units higher of RBP4 and FRAP; and to -0.3 (95% CI, -0.5 to -0.1) units lower of MDA. CONCLUSIONS: SUA was positively associated with adiposity, RBP4, and antioxidative status in Brazilian children.

Associations of adiposity and adipokine concentrations with anti- and oxidative markers in Brazilian children.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of body fat, anti- and inflammatory adipokines with anti- and oxidative markers. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 378 schoolchildren ages 8 to 9 y in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. We obtained information on sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics via questionnaires, measured height and weight, and estimated body fat by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Blood sample was collected to analyze the adipokines (adiponectin, leptin, chemerin, and retinol-binding protein 4) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay based on the sandwich principle; and anti- and oxidant markers (plasma ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP], superoxide dismutase [SOD], and malondialdehyde [MDA]) by enzymatic methods. Concentrations of anti- and oxidant markers were compared by percent body fat quartiles and adipokine concentrations terciles using of linear regression adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS: Total and central body fat were positively associated with FRAP. Every 1 standard deviation (SD) of total fat was associated with 4.8 higher FRAP (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.7-7). Additionally, every 1 SD of truncal, android, and gynoid fat were associated with, respectively, 5, 4.6, and 4.6 higher FRAP (95% CI, 2.9-7.1; 2.6-6.7; and 2.4-6.8, respectively). However, adiponectin was inversely associated with FRAP; every adiponectin SD was related to -2.2 lower FRAP (95% CI, -3.9 to -0.5). Chemerin was positively associated with SOD [5.4 (95% CI, 1.9-8.8) SOD units per chemerin SD]. CONCLUSIONS: The body fat measures and adiposity-related inflammation (chemerin) were positively associated with antioxidative markers in children, whereas the adiponectin (anti-inflammatory marker) was inversely associated with FRAP (antioxidative marker).

Beneficial effects of butyrate on brain functions: A view of epigenetic.

Brain functions are influenced by the presence, activity, and metabolism of the gut microbiota through the gut-microbiota-brain (GMB) axis. The consumption of a fiber-rich diet increases the content of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from bacterial fermentation in the colon. Among SCFAs, butyrate stands out because of its wide array of biological functions, such as ability to influence brain functions. Pharmacologically, sodium butyrate (NaB) regulates gene expression in the brain, where it has several beneficial effects ranging from neurodegenerative diseases to behavioral disorders through inhibitors of histone deacetylases (HDACis). In this context, we review the mechanisms of action of the two types of butyrate on brain functions, with an emphasis on the epigenetic approach. Both types of butyrate are potentially interesting for the prevention and adjuvant therapy of neurological and psychological disorders due to their neuroprotective functions. However, further studies are needed to investigate the possible neuroepigenetic effects of butyrate derived from bacterial fermentation.

Trypanosoma cruzi infection increases atherosclerotic lesion in ApoE-deficient mice.

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is the major ligand for the transporting and removal of chylomicrons and lipoproteins by the liver. Since the creation of the ApoE-knockout mice, it is well established that ApoE deficiency results in spontaneous atherosclerosis in aged animals. Atherosclerosis is also observed in animals infected with Trypanosoma cruzi, a protozoan that elicits a systemic inflammatory response in mammalian hosts, culminating in damage to cardiac, neuronal, and endothelial cells. Pro-atherogenic effects related to the experimental infection with T. cruzi may be induced by inflammatory components affecting the vascular wall. Herein, we evaluated whether infection with different strains of T. cruzi worsened the atherogenic lesions observed in aged ApoE-/- mice. After four weeks of infection with Berenice-78 (Be-78) or Colombian (Col) strains of the parasite, mice presented increased CCL2 and CCL5 production and high migration of inflammatory cells to cardiac tissue. Although the infection with either strain did not affect the survival rate, only the infection with Col strain caused abundant parasite growth in blood and heart and increased aortic root lesions in ApoE-/- mice. Our findings show, for the first time that ApoE exerts a protective anti-atherosclerotic role in the aortic root of mice in the acute phase of experimental infection with the Col strain of T. cruzi. Further studies should target ApoE and nutritional interventions to modulate susceptibility to cardiovascular disabilities after T. cruzi infection, minimizing the risk of death in both experimental animals and humans.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) supplementation increases butyrate synthesis and reduces inflammatory cells, attenuating the formation of aberrant crypt foci in BALB/c mice induced to pre-neoplastic lesions.

The development of colorectal cancer involves some morphological changes, and in the initial stage, pre-neoplastic lesions called aberrant crypt foci (ACF) appear. Thus, an intervention with sources of bioactive compounds such as Hibiscus sabdariffa L., rich in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins, could attenuate the risk of developing these lesions due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 5% and 10% supplementation of dehydrated H. sabdariffa calyces (DHSC) during the development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced preneoplastic lesions in male BALB/c mice. The characterization of DHSC was carried out. The in vivo experiment lasted 12 weeks, and the animals were randomly divided into 3 experimental groups: the control group (CON) and the supplemented groups with 5% DHSC and 10% DHSC. The activities of liver enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase were determined. In addition, ACF, short chain fatty acids (SCFA), presence of inflammatory infiltrates, goblet cells and leukocytes in the colonic mucosa were quantified. There was a significant reduction in ACF and the presence of inflammatory infiltrates in the colon of animals in groups 5DHSC and 10DHSC. In addition, the 10DHSC group showed an increase in the activity of the catalse enzyme, in the production of butyrate and in the presence of NK cells in the colon, in addition to more hypertrophied goblet cells. Based on these findings, it is suggested that DHSC supplementation may be recommended to attenuate cellular responses in the early stage of preneoplastic lesions.

Is Dietary Iodine Intake Excessive According to the Theoretical Model of Healthy Dietary Intake Pattern in Pregnant Women and Schoolchildren: Water, Salt, or Food?

Introduction: Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can cause hypothyroidism and goiter; in schoolchildren, it can cause reduced intelligence quotient. In excess, iodine can cause thyroiditis, goiter, and Hashimoto's hypothyroidism. Currently, schoolchildren and pregnant women are classified as risk groups for excessive iodine intake and iodine deficiency, respectively. Thus, determining iodine from all sources of consumption is important for intervention planning. Objective: To construct a theoretical model for the iodine intake of schoolchildren and pregnant women of a city in the Zona da Mata Mineira region, considering a healthy diet, salt consumption and water intake. Methodology: The dietary iodine intake of pregnant women was analyzed based on a dietary iodine table compiled from an international database. A dietary plan was prepared following the Brazilian Food Guide. Iodine concentration of different salt brands sold in local establishments was checked, and drinking water samples from healthcare facilities were analyzed. A descriptive and exploratory statistical analysis was performed and the results were presented in absolute and relative frequencies, and measures of central tendency and dispersion. Results: According to the proposed diet, pregnant women and schoolchildren would have a daily intake of 71.6 µg and 71 µg, respectively. Thirteen salt brands were evaluated, 69.2% complied with the legislation and the mean iodine content was 29.88 mg. The mean concentration of iodine in water was 25 µg iodine/liter and 14 µg iodine/liter, respectively, in summer and autumn. Considering the intake of food, salt, and drinking water according to the proposed dietary plan, the daily intake for pregnant women would be 279.5 and 253.5 µg for schoolchildren. Conclusion: The daily iodine intake of schoolchildren and pregnant women according to this theoretical model was excessive, considering a healthy dietary pattern. This theoretical model can guide actions and public policies aimed at targeting all forms of iodine intake.

Effects of β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (hmb) and resistance training on body fat and lipid metabolism signaling pathways

ABSTRACT Excess body fat is a serious problem for increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as obesity, compromising the health and quality of life of the population. In this sense, resistance training (RT) is type of physical exercise which improves body composition by increasing lean mass and reducing fat mass. RT in combination with nutrition (i.e. protein supplementation) is a key intervention to improve body fat metabolism and reducing obesity. Concerning protein supplementation, the β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) is a metabolite of the branched-chain amino acid leucine that has demonstrated positive effects on body fat reduction. However, the effects of combining HMB supplementation with RT related to adipose tissue metabolic activity are controversial and warrant further investigation. This study analyzed the effects of HMB supplementation associated with RT on body fat concentration and lipid metabolism signaling pathways.

RESUMEN El exceso de grasa corporal es un problema grave que aumenta tu riesgo de enfermedades y problemas de salud, tales como enfermedad cardíaca, diabetes, presión arterial alta y ciertos tipos de cáncer. En este sentido, y dentro del ejercicio físico, el entrenamiento de resistencia (ER) es un tipo de entrenamiento con pesos que mejora la composición corporal aumentando la masa magra y perdiendo masa grasa. El ER asociado con la nutrición (ej. suplementación proteica) es una excelente intervención para mejorar el metabolismo de los lípidos al reducir la grasa corporal. En relación con la suplementación proteica el β-hidroxi-β-metilbutirato (HMB) es un metabolito del aminoácido de cadena ramificada esencial leucina que ha demostrado efectos positivos en la reducción de grasa corporal. Sin embargo, los efectos de la suplementación con HMB asociados con TR relacionados con la actividad metabólica del tejido adiposo son controvertidos y necesita la realización de investigaciones adicionales. Este estudio analizó los efectos de la suplementación con HMB asociados con TR en la concentración de grasa corporal y en las vías de señalización que participan en la regulación del metabolismo de los lípidos.

Kefir and Intestinal Microbiota Modulation: Implications in Human Health.

In the last decades changes in the pattern of health and disease in Latin America and in the world has been observed, with an increase in cases of chronic non-communicable diseases. Changes in intestinal microbiota composition can contribute to the development of these diseases and be useful in their management. In this context, the consumption of fermented foods with probiotic properties, such as kefir, stands out due to its gut microbiota-modulating capacity. There is an increasing interest in the commercial use of kefir since it can be marketed as a natural beverage containing health-promoting bacteria and has been gaining international popularity in Latin America. Also the consumption of these drinks in Latin America seems to be even more relevant, given the socioeconomic situation of this population, which highlights the need for disease prevention at the expense of its treatment. In this narrative review, we discuss how kefir may work against obesity, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, cardiovascular disorders, immunity, and neurological disorders. Peptides, bioactive compounds and strains occurring in kefir, can modulate gut microbiota composition, low-grade inflammation and intestinal permeability, which consequently may generate health benefits. Kefir can also impact on the regulation of organism homeostasis, with a direct effect on the gut-brain axis, being a possible strategy for the prevention of metabolic diseases. Further studies are needed to standardize these bioactive compounds and better elucidate the mechanisms linking kefir and intestinal microbiota modulation. However, due to the benefits reported, low cost and ease of preparation, kefir seems to be a promising approach to prevent and manage microbiota-related diseases in Latin America and the rest of the world.

Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic VSL#3 and synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product in reducing oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in mice induced to colorectal carcinogenesis.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 isolated or associated with a yacon-based product (synbiotic) on oxidative stress modulation and intestinal permeability in an experimental model of colorectal carcinogenesis. Forty-five C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (standard diet AIN-93 M); probiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M and multispecies probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU), and synbiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M with yacon-based product, 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin, and probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU). The experimental diets were provided for 13 weeks. The probiotic and the yacon-based product showed antioxidant activity, with the percentage of DPPH radical scavenging equal to 69.7 ± 0.4% and 74.3 ± 0.1%, respectively. These findings contributed to reduce hepatic oxidative stress: the control group showed higher concentration of malondialdehyde (1.8-fold, p = 0.007 and 1.5-fold, p = 0.035) and carbonylated protein (2-fold, p = 0.008 and 5.6-fold, p = 0.000) compared to the probiotic and synbiotic groups, respectively. Catalase enzyme activity increased 1.43-fold (p = 0.014) in synbiotic group. The crypt depth increased 1.2-fold and 1.4-fold with the use of probiotic and synbiotic, respectively, compared to the control diet (p = 0.000). These findings corroborate the reduction in intestinal permeability in the probiotic and synbiotic groups, as measured by the percentage of urinary lactulose excretion (CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × PRO: 0.44 ± 0.05%, p = 0.048; and CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × SYN: 0.41 ± 0.12%, p = 0.043). In conclusion, the probiotic and synbiotic showed antioxidant activity, which contributed to the reduction of oxidative stress markers. In addition, they protected the mucosa from damage caused by chemical carcinogen and reduced intestinal permeability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The relationship between intestinal health and the occurrence of various organic disorders has been demonstrated in many studies. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is currently one of the main targets for modulation of intestinal health. We demonstrated that the use of a commercial mix of probiotic bacteria (VSL#3) isolated or associated with a yacon-based prebiotic, rich in fructooligosaccharides and inulin, is able to reduce the oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in a colorectal carcinogenesis model. These compounds have great potential to be used as a food supplement, or as ingredients in the development of food products.

Effects of aerobic exercise training and açai supplementation on cardiac structure and function in rats submitted to a high-fat diet.

This study evaluated the effect of aerobic exercise training (AET) and supplementation with açai on cardiac structure and function in rats submitted to a high-fat diet. Two-month old Fischer male rats were divided into 5 groups: Control (C), High-fat Diet (H), High-fat Diet + Açai (HA), High-fat Diet + AET (HT), High-fat Diet + Açai + AET (HAT). The high-fat diet had 21.8% lard and 1% cholesterol (H and HT), or supplemented with 1% lyophilized açai pulp (HA and HAT). The HT and HAT groups performed AET on a treadmill (5 days/week, 1 h/day, 60% of the maximum running speed) for 8 weeks. Exercise tolerance test were performed, and adiposity index calculated. After euthanasia, the left ventricle (LV) was dissected and processed for histological, single myocyte intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) transient and contractility, oxidative stress and gene expression analysis. AET improved running capacity and reduced the adiposity index. Both AET and açai supplementation inhibited the increase in the LV collagen content, the deleterious effects on the [Ca2+]i transient and contractility in cardiomyocytes and the increment in oxidative stress, caused by the consumption of a high-fat diet. Aerobic exercise training and açai supplementation can mitigate damage caused by high-fat diet in cardiac structure and function, though the combination of treatments had no additional effects.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Anacardium occidentale L. and Anacardium microcarpum D. Extracts on the Liver of IL-10 Knockout Mice.

BACKGROUND: The Anacardium occidentale L. (cashew) and Anacardium microcarpum D. (cajuí) are plants commonly found in Brazil. They present phytochemical compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanolic extracts from leaves of A. occidentale and A. microcarpum and its effect on the hepatic tissue in experimental knockout models after they received Paracetamol®. METHODS: Ethanol extracts from A. occidentale and A. microcarpum leaves were prepared. Total phenolics were determined by Folin-Ciocalteau reagent, and flavonoids are based on the complexation reaction with the aluminum metal, forming a colored complex. Fingerprint HPLC was performed to detect phenolic compounds. Knockout IL-10 mice randomly divided into six groups were used and received the following treatments: G1, only water; G2, A. occidentale extract; G3, A. microcarpum extract; G4, Paracetamol®; G5, Paracetamol® + A. occidentale extract (400 mg/kg); G6, Paracetamol® + A. microcarpum extract (400 mg/kg). Biochemical parameters of the blood and differential count of leukocytes were done. Oxidative markers and histopathological analyses were performed on their liver tissue. RESULTS: Phenolic compounds and total flavonoids were detected in both two extracts analyzed. The HPLC fingerprint detected phenolic acid, gallic acid, and catechin flavonoid in the two extracts. Histopathological analyses of the hepatic tissue permitted evaluation of nuclear increase, sinusoid congestion, and inflammatory infiltrate. A. microcarpum presented more antioxidant activity increasing antioxidant enzyme levels and reducing TBARS and carbonyl protein when compared to the other treatments after exposure to Paracetamol®. Histopathological analyses showed a decrease in the inflammatory infiltrate after treatment with extracts. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that both extracts, especially A. microcarpum, can reduce hepatic damage in knockout mice exposed to paracetamol, indicating the curative power of these extracts reducing lipid peroxidation and in the morphofunctional damage to the liver parenchyma.

Use of the synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based concentrate attenuates intestinal damage and reduces the abundance of Candidatus Saccharimonas in a colitis-associated carcinogenesis model.

Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease are at high risk of developing colitis-associated cancer; thus, strategies to inhibit disease progression should be investigated. The study aimed to explore the role of the synbiotic (probiotic VSL#3® and yacon-based concentrate) in a colitis-associated carcinogenesis model. IL-10-/- mice were induced to carcinogenesis with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine and divided into two experimental groups: control and synbiotic. Manifestations of colitis, colon histology, expression of antioxidant enzymes, production of organic acids and intestinal microbiota were evaluated. The use of the synbiotic showed benefits, such as the preservation of intestinal architecture, increased expression of antioxidant enzymes and the concentration of organic acids, especially butyrate. It was also observed different microbial community profiles between the groups during the study. Together, these factors contributed to mitigate the manifestations of colitis and improve intestinal integrity, suggesting the potential benefit of the synbiotic in intestinal diseases.

A systematic review of cross-sectional studies on the association of sedentary behavior with cardiometabolic diseases and related biomarkers in South American adults / Revisión sistemática de estudios transversales sobre la asociación de la conducta sedentaria con las enfermedades cardiometabólicas y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos sudamericanos

INTRODUCTION: sedentary behavior (SB) has been independently associated with detrimental health outcomes in different regions worldwide. The aim of this systematic review was to examine whether domain-specific SB is associated with cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) and related biomarkers in South American adults. METHODS: nine electronic databases were searched to identify all studies that analyzed the association between SB and CMD -e.g. obesity, diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and clustering of chronic diseases (CCD) - and related biomarkers in South American adults. Two independent reviewers performed the necessary Abstract/full-text screening, data abstraction, and quality assessments. The review protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018099319). RESULTS: from the 1,262 articles identified in the search 262 were reviewed in full and 20 were used in the analysis in accordance to the inclusion criteria. High SB (mainly sitting and TV time) was associated with an increased likelihood of obesity (n = 8), diabetes (n = 6), and CCD (n = 3), as well as high values of BMI (n = 8), WC (n = 7), % BF (n = 4), plasma lipids (n = 4), and glycemia (n = 5). Eleven out of 20 studies were of higher quality. CONCLUSION: long time spent in SB, mainly sitting and TV time, was positively associated with the occurrence of CMD and related biomarkers in South American adults

INTRODUCCIÓN: el comportamiento sedentario (CS) se ha asociado de forma independiente con resultados perjudiciales para la salud en diferentes regiones del mundo. El objetivo de esta revisión sistemática fue examinar si el CS específico de cada dominio se asocia o no a enfermedades cardiometabólicas (ECM) y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos sudamericanos. MÉTODOS: se realizaron búsquedas en nueve bases de datos electrónicas para identificar todos los estudios que habían analizado la asociación entre CS y ECM -por ejemplo, obesidad, diabetes, hipertensión, síndrome metabólico y agrupación de enfermedades crónicas (AEC)- y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos sudamericanos. Dos revisores independientes realizaron evaluaciones de los resúmenes/textos completos, el resumen de los datos y evaluaciones de calidad. El protocolo de revisión está registrado en la base de datos PROSPERO (CRD42018099319). RESULTADOS: de los 1262 artículos identificados en la búsqueda, 262 se revisaron en su totalidad y 20 se utilizaron en el análisis de acuerdo con los criterios de inclusión. El gran CS diabetes (n = 6) y AEC (n = 3), así como a valores altos de IMC (n = 8), WC (n = 7), % BF (n = 4), lípidos plasmáticos (n = 4) y glucemia (n = 5). Once de los 20 estudios fueron de alta calidad. CONCLUSIÓN: la gran cantidad de tiempo invertido en el CS, principalmente el tiempo sentado y de televisión, se asoció positivamente con la aparición de ECM y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos de América del Sur

["The table that shrank": the food perspective of mothers who have lost children]. / "A mesa que encolheu": a perspectiva alimentar das mães que perderam filhos.

This article describes the relationship of bereaved mothers with eating habits, based on the existential phenomenology considering that the family food space, led by the matriarch, can be disturbed due to the loss of a child. Interviews were conducted with fifteen women attending non-governmental bereavement support groups, aged between 40 and 61 years of age. Based on the analysis of the interviews, four thematic categories emerged revealing how grieving mothers behave: loss of appetite and pleasure in eating food; the action of sharing meals versus maternal mourning; the confrontation with the "empty chair"; and reactions due to the culinary act that symbolizes the memory of the child. The influence of grief on the relationship between mothers and food was verified in several ways, either in the loss of appetite, the body weight change or in the absence of the child in the social interactions during shared meals, which represent the challenges of the mother facing the "table that shrank," calling for the mothers to find new meanings for eating. It is understood that the relationship of the bereaved mother with food is surrounded by conflicts that expose the mother to nutritional risks and demands support from professionals who are both sensitive and well informed about this condition.

Este artigo descreve a relação de mães enlutadas com a alimentação, com base na fenomenologia existencial, considerando que o espaço familiar alimentar, protagonizado pela matriarca, pode ser perturbado com a perda de um filho. Foram realizadas entrevistas com quinze mães frequentadoras de Organizações Não Governamentais de apoio ao luto, com idade entre 40 e 61 anos. Da análise emergiram quatro eixos temáticos que indicam como a mãe enlutada se comporta no contexto da alimentação: a ausência de fome e do prazer em se alimentar; o ato de compartilhar refeições versus o luto materno; o confronto com a "cadeira vazia"; reações e sentimentos diante da culinária que simboliza a memória do filho. A influência que o luto exerce na relação das mães com a alimentação foi evidenciada de diversas maneiras, seja na ausência de fome, na alteração do peso e na falta do(a) filho(a) nas interações sociais durante as refeições compartilhadas, representando os desafios da mãe perante uma "mesa que encolheu", exigindo das mesmas novas significações frente à alimentação. Compreende-se que a relação da enlutada com a alimentação é permeada de conflitos que a expõe a risco de desvios nutricionais e demanda apoio com profissionais sensíveis e esclarecidos sobre essa condição.

"A mesa que encolheu": a perspectiva alimentar das mães que perderam filhos / "The table that shrank": the food perspective of mothers who have lost children

Resumo Este artigo descreve a relação de mães enlutadas com a alimentação, com base na fenomenologia existencial, considerando que o espaço familiar alimentar, protagonizado pela matriarca, pode ser perturbado com a perda de um filho. Foram realizadas entrevistas com quinze mães frequentadoras de Organizações Não Governamentais de apoio ao luto, com idade entre 40 e 61 anos. Da análise emergiram quatro eixos temáticos que indicam como a mãe enlutada se comporta no contexto da alimentação: a ausência de fome e do prazer em se alimentar; o ato de compartilhar refeições versus o luto materno; o confronto com a "cadeira vazia"; reações e sentimentos diante da culinária que simboliza a memória do filho. A influência que o luto exerce na relação das mães com a alimentação foi evidenciada de diversas maneiras, seja na ausência de fome, na alteração do peso e na falta do(a) filho(a) nas interações sociais durante as refeições compartilhadas, representando os desafios da mãe perante uma "mesa que encolheu", exigindo das mesmas novas significações frente à alimentação. Compreende-se que a relação da enlutada com a alimentação é permeada de conflitos que a expõe a risco de desvios nutricionais e demanda apoio com profissionais sensíveis e esclarecidos sobre essa condição.

Abstract This article describes the relationship of bereaved mothers with eating habits, based on the existential phenomenology considering that the family food space, led by the matriarch, can be disturbed due to the loss of a child. Interviews were conducted with fifteen women attending non-governmental bereavement support groups, aged between 40 and 61 years of age. Based on the analysis of the interviews, four thematic categories emerged revealing how grieving mothers behave: loss of appetite and pleasure in eating food; the action of sharing meals versus maternal mourning; the confrontation with the "empty chair"; and reactions due to the culinary act that symbolizes the memory of the child. The influence of grief on the relationship between mothers and food was verified in several ways, either in the loss of appetite, the body weight change or in the absence of the child in the social interactions during shared meals, which represent the challenges of the mother facing the "table that shrank," calling for the mothers to find new meanings for eating. It is understood that the relationship of the bereaved mother with food is surrounded by conflicts that expose the mother to nutritional risks and demands support from professionals who are both sensitive and well informed about this condition.

A systematic review of cross-sectional studies on the association of sedentary behavior with cardiometabolic diseases and related biomarkers in South American adults.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: sedentary behavior (SB) has been independently associated with detrimental health outcomes in different regions worldwide. The aim of this systematic review was to examine whether domain-specific SB is associated with cardiometabolic diseases (CMD) and related biomarkers in South American adults. Methods: nine electronic databases were searched to identify all studies that analyzed the association between SB and CMD-e.g. obesity, diabetes, hypertension, metabolic syndrome (MetS) and clustering of chronic diseases (CCD)-and related biomarkers in South American adults. Two independent reviewers performed the necessary abstract/full-text screening, data abstraction, and quality assessments. The review protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018099319). Results: from the 1,262 articles identified in the search 262 were reviewed in full and 20 were used in the analysis in accordance to the inclusion criteria. High SB (mainly sitting and TV time) was associated with an increased likelihood of obesity (n = 8), diabetes (n = 6), and CCD (n = 3), as well as high values of BMI (n = 8), WC (n = 7), % BF (n = 4), plasma lipids (n = 4), and glycemia (n = 5). Eleven out of 20 studies were of higher quality. Conclusion: long time spent in SB, mainly sitting and TV time, was positively associated with the occurrence of CMD and related biomarkers in South American adults.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: el comportamiento sedentario (CS) se ha asociado de forma independiente con resultados perjudiciales para la salud en diferentes regiones del mundo. El objetivo de esta revisión sistemática fue examinar si el CS específico de cada dominio se asocia o no a enfermedades cardiometabólicas (ECM) y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos sudamericanos. Métodos: se realizaron búsquedas en nueve bases de datos electrónicas para identificar todos los estudios que habían analizado la asociación entre CS y ECM ­por ejemplo, obesidad, diabetes, hipertensión, síndrome metabólico y agrupación de enfermedades crónicas (AEC)­ y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos sudamericanos. Dos revisores independientes realizaron evaluaciones de los resúmenes/textos completos, el resumen de los datos y evaluaciones de calidad. El protocolo de revisión está registrado en la base de datos PROSPERO (CRD42018099319). Resultados: de los 1262 artículos identificados en la búsqueda, 262 se revisaron en su totalidad y 20 se utilizaron en el análisis de acuerdo con los criterios de inclusión. El gran CS (principalmente, tiempo sentado y de televisión) se asoció a una mayor probabilidad de obesidad (n = 8), diabetes (n = 6) y AEC (n = 3), así como a valores altos de IMC (n = 8), WC (n = 7), % BF (n = 4), lípidos plasmáticos (n = 4) y glucemia (n = 5). Once de los 20 estudios fueron de alta calidad. Conclusión: la gran cantidad de tiempo invertido en el CS, principalmente el tiempo sentado y de televisión, se asoció positivamente con la aparición de ECM y sus biomarcadores relacionados en adultos de América del Sur.

Preclinical Evidence of Probiotics in Colorectal Carcinogenesis: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer, the second major cause of cancer deaths, imposes a major health burden worldwide. There is growing evidence that supports that the use of probiotics is effective against various diseases, especially in gastrointestinal diseases, including the colorectal cancer, but the differences between the strains, dose, and frequency used are not yet clear. AIMS: To perform a systematic review to compile the results of studies carried out in animal models and investigated the effect of probiotics on colorectal carcinogenesis. METHODS: Studies were selected in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Search filters were developed using three parameters: probiotics, colorectal cancer, and animal model. RESULTS: From a structured search, we discovered 34 original articles and submitted them to a risk of bias analysis using SYRCLE's tool. The studies show a great diversity of models, most were conducted in rats (55.8%) and used 1,2 dimethylhydrazine as the drug to induce colorectal carcinogenesis (61.7%). The vast majority of trials investigated Lactobacillus (64%) and Bifidobacterium (29.4%) strains. Twenty-six (86.6%) studies found significant reduction in lesions or tumors in the animals that received probiotics. The main methodological limitation was the insufficient amount of information for the adequate reproducibility of the trials, which indicated a high risk of bias due to incomplete characterization of the experimental design. CONCLUSIONS: The different probiotics' strains showed anti-carcinogenic effect, reduced the development of lesions and intestinal tumors, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity, and reduced fecal bacterial enzymes.

Food Iodine Content Table compiled from international databases / Tabela do Conteúdo de Iodo de Alimentos compilada de bancos de dados internacionais

ABSATRCT In Brazil, there are no data on the iodine content of foods, making it difficult for the population to assess their consumption of iodine. Such information is necessary for public policies aimed at establishing nutritional goals. The objective this article is to construct a table of the iodine content of foods. For the construction of the table, databases from 14 countries were used. The foods used were those listed in the 2008-2009 Household Budget Survey, except those containing added salt, and the doubts about whether or not the food was submitted to any kind of preparation. The compilation of international databases of iodine content resulted in 266 foods, which were grouped into 15 groups. Iodine was also quantified by food group and iodized salt. Data were presented as median, minimum, and maximum. A broad variation in the iodine content of foods was found between countries and inter- and intra-food groups. Those with the highest content were fish and seafood, and dairy products. Regarding salt iodization, these countries followed the recommendation of the World Health Organization, except for Spain, Norway and Turkey. The Food Iodine Content Table can be a useful tool for assessing iodine intake, being important in research on nutritional status, food guidance, and public health programs.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho é construir uma tabela de conteúdo de iodo de alimentos visto que tais informações são necessárias para que políticas públicas possam estabelecer metas nutricionais e no Brasil não existem dados do conteúdo de iodo dos alimentos, dificultando a avaliação do consumo pela população. Na construção da tabela utilizou-se bancos de dados de 14 países. Os alimentos utilizados foram aqueles listados na Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares de 2008-2009, exceto aqueles que continham sal de adição e os que suscitaram dúvidas em relação à existência de submissão ou não a algum preparo. A compilação dos bancos de dados internacionais do conteúdo de iodo resultou em 266 alimentos, os quais foram reunidos em 15 grupos. Foi realizada também a quantificação de iodo por grupo de alimentos e no sal iodado. Os dados foram apresentados como mediana, mínimo e máximo. Foi encontrada grande variação no conteúdo de iodo dos alimentos entre os países e inter e intra grupos de alimentos. Os que apresentaram maiores conteúdos foram o dos pescados e frutos do mar e dos laticínios. Em relação à iodação do sal, os países seguiram a recomendação da Organização Mundial da Saúde, exceto, Espanha, Noruega e Turquia. A tabela do conteúdo de iodo de alimentos poderá ser um instrumento útil para avaliação da ingestão de iodo, sendo importante em pesquisa do estado nutricional, orientação alimentar e programas de saúde pública.

Intestinal microbiota and colorectal cancer: changes in the intestinal microenvironment and their relation to the disease.

Tools that predict the risk of colorectal cancer are important for early diagnosis, given the high mortality rate for this cancer. The composition of the intestinal microbiota is now considered to be a risk factor for the development of colorectal cancer. This discovery has motivated a growing number of studies to identify the micro-organisms responsible for the onset and/or progression of colorectal cancer. With this in mind, this review discusses the relationship between the composition of the intestinal microbiota and colorectal cancer risk. Prospective and case-control studies indicate that the intestinal microbiota of individuals with colorectal cancer usually contains a greater proportion of bacteria responsible for gastrointestinal tract inflammatory diseases, as well as bacteria that produce toxins and carcinogenic metabolites. In contrast, there tends to be a reduced presence of butyric acid-producing bacteria, probiotic bacteria and potentially probiotic bacteria. Despite these differences, the onset and development of colorectal cancer cannot be attributed to a specific micro-organism. Thus, studies focused on the formation of the intestinal microbiota and factors that modulate its composition are important for the development of approaches for colorectal cancer prevention.

Increased C-Reactive Protein in Brazilian Children: Association with Cardiometabolic Risk and Metabolic Syndrome Components (PASE Study).

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a marker of subclinical inflammation that has been found to be associated with cardiovascular disease risk. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between CRP and cardiometabolic markers in a representative sample of prepubescent children. The objective was to evaluate the high-sensitive CRP (hs-CRP) and its association with traditional and nontraditional cardiometabolic risk factors, as well as metabolic syndrome (MetS) components in Brazilian children. This is a cross-sectional representative study, with participants of the Schoolchildren Health Assessment Survey (PASE). Children from 8 to 9 years old (n=350) enrolled in public and private schools in the municipality of Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil, were evaluated. Sociodemographic evaluation was performed through a semistructured questionnaire. Anthropometric, body composition, clinical, and biochemical measures were analyzed for cardiometabolic risk assessment. The total mean of serum hs-CRP concentration was 0.62 (±1.44) mg/L. hs-CRP was significantly correlated with several anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical parameters in this population (P < 0.05). hs-CRP was positively associated with the accumulation of cardiometabolic risk factors and MetS components (P < 0.05). Children with excessive weight; abdominal obesity; increased gynoid and android body fat; low HDL-c; hyperglycemia; and elevated uric acid, homocysteine, and apoB had higher chances of presenting increased hs-CRP (P < 0.05). In this study, Brazilian children with cardiometabolic risk already presented elevated serum hs-CRP concentration. hs-CRP was associated with the increase of traditional and nontraditional cardiometabolic risk factors, as well as the accumulation of MetS components.