ABSTRACT Breast cancer (BC) is the most common neoplasm in women globally. Healthy eating, a characteristic of the Mediterranean diet (MD), has been associated with a lower risk of developing BC, although this relationship remains inconclusive. This study aimed to analyse the relationship between MD adherence and the risk of BC development. A case-control study was carried out with 181 women divided into two groups: with BC (n= 90) and without breast cancer (WBC) (n= 91). Clinical and reproductive aspects were investigated through interviews, and food consumption was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Adherence to the MD was evaluated using the MD score. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS® software, with p<0.05. The results showed that the main type of breast carcinoma was invasive ductal carcinoma, positive for oestrogen or progesterone receptors. The mean MD score was 4.08 ± 1.61 and 4.22 ± 1.69 among women with BC and without BC, respectively, with no difference between the groups. The risk assessment of BC with respect to adherence to MD showed no significant difference after adjustments were made in the logistic regression models. In conclusion, this study showed that women with and without breast cancer had “medium adherence” to MD, with no difference between the groups. In the group of women investigated, adherence to MD did not affect the risk of developing the disease.

RESUMEN El cáncer de mama (CM) es la neoplasia más frecuente entre las mujeres del mundo, y la alimentación saludable, característica del patrón de la dieta mediterránea (DM), se ha asociado con un menor riesgo de desarrollar CM, aunque esta relación sigue sin ser concluyente. El objetivo del estudio fue analizar la relación entre la adherencia a la DM y el riesgo para el desarrollo de CM. Estudio de casos y controles realizados con 181 mujeres divididas en dos grupos: con cáncer de mama (n=90) y sin cáncer de mama (SCM; n= 91). Los aspectos clínicos y reproductivos se evaluaron a través de una entrevista; consumo de alimentos a través del cuestionario de frecuencia alimentaria (FFQ) y adherencia a la dieta mediterránea evaluada según la puntuación de DM. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante el software SPSS®, considerando valores significativos de p<0,05. Los resultados mostraron que el principal tipo de carcinoma de mama fue el carcinoma ductal invasivo, positivo para el receptor de estrógenos y progesterona. La puntuación media de DM fue de 4,08 ± 1,61 entre las mujeres con CM y de 4,22 ± 1,69 entre las que no tenían la enfermedad, sin diferencia entre los grupos. La evaluación del riesgo de CM en relación con la adherencia a la DM mostró que, después de ajustes en los modelos de regresión logística, no hubo diferencia significativa. En conclusión, el estudio muestra que las mujeres con y sin CM tuvieron “adherencia media” a la DM, sin diferencia entre los grupos. También mostró que, en el grupo de mujeres investigadas, la adherencia a la DM no influyó en el riesgo para el desarrollo de la enfermedad.

Abstract Introduction: research shows the potential effect of vitamin D supplementation with an improvement in the glycemic profile of pre-diabetic patients. Objective: this study evaluates the effects of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals. Methods: we analyzed studies published over the last ten years, and indexed in the Science Direct, PubMed, and LILACS databases. We searched studies using health descriptors related to vitamin D, pre-diabetes, and glycemic control markers. We considered randomized controlled trials eligible for inclusion. All phases of selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment were carried out by two independent evaluators. Results: we identified 309 articles, of which 4 met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 3 studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation does not alter glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals. Only one study showed a positive effect after supplementation with 60,000 IU/month of vitamin D3 for 12 months, with a significant reduction in the concentrations of glycated hemoglobin, fasting glucose, and two-hour postprandial glucose. Conclusion: there is insufficient scientific evidence to confirm the beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation on glycemic control markers in pre-diabetic individuals.

Resumen Introducción: las investigaciones muestran el efecto potencial de la suplementación con vitamina D con una mejora del perfil glucémico de los pacientes prediabéticos. Objetivo: este estudio evalúa los efectos de la suplementación con vitamina D sobre los marcadores de control glucémico en personas prediabéticas. Métodos: analizamos los estudios publicados en los últimos diez años e indexados en las bases de datos Science Direct, PubMed y LILACS. Se realizaron búsquedas de estudios mediante descriptores de salud relacionados con la vitamina D, la prediabetes y los marcadores de control glucémico. Los ensayos controlados y aleatorizados se consideraron elegibles para su inclusión. Todas las fases de selección, extracción de datos y evaluación del riesgo de sesgos fueron realizadas por dos evaluadores independientes. Resultados: identificamos 309 artículos, de los que 4 cumplieron los criterios de inclusión. De estos, 3 estudios demostraron que la suplementación con vitamina D no altera los marcadores de control glucémico en las personas prediabéticas. Solo un estudio mostró un efecto positivo después de la suplementación de 60.000 UI/mes de vitamina D3 durante 12 meses, con una reducción significativa de las concentraciones de hemoglobina glucosilada, glucosa en ayunas y glucosa posprandial a las dos horas. Conclusión: no hay evidencia científica suficiente para confirmar los efectos beneficiosos de la suplementación de vitamina D sobre los marcadores de control glucémico en las personas prediabéticas.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Reunir evidências científicas sobre o papel da dieta nas doenças inflamatórias intestinais. MÉTODOS: Revisão integrativa com estudos publicados nos últimos 10 anos em periódicos nacionais e internacionais. Foram incluídos estudos originais desenvolvidos com seres humanos adultos com idade ≥18anos e excluídos artigos publicados antes de 2010, revisões de literatura, e os que não apresentassem como foco elementos que respondessem a pergunta norteadora. RESULTADOS: Foram selecionados 14 artigos que abordaram elementos dietéticos importantes na doença inflamatória intestinal como carboidratos e polióis fermentáveis, alimentos de origem animal, alimentos ricos em ômega 3, consumo de frutas e vegetais, uso de suplementos com probióticos, proteínas do soro do leite e soja. CONCLUSÃO: A dieta, como fator ambiental potencialmente modificável desempenha importante papel na prevenção e tratamento das doenças inflamatórias intestinas. A redução no consumo de carboidratos e polióis fermentáveis aliado ao aumento do consumo de frutas e vegetais como também a exclusão de produtos de origem animal como carne bovina, carne suína, leite e ovo podem auxiliar no controle da inflamação e melhoria da qualidade de vida dos pacientes com doenças inflamatórias intestinais. O uso de probióticos aumenta a tolerância alimentar e, proteínas do soro do leite e soja, podem alterar a composição corporal e reduzir a inflamação.

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: To gather scientific evidence on the role of diet in inflammatory bowel diseases. METHODS: Integrative review with studies published in the last 10 years in national and international journals. Original studies developed with adult human beings aged ≥18 years were included and articles published before 2010, literature reviews, and those that did not focus on elements that answered the guiding question were excluded. RESULTS: 14 articles were selected that addressed important dietary elements in inflammatory bowel disease such as fermentable carbohydrates and polyols, foods of animal origin, foods rich in omega 3, consumption of fruits and vegetables, use of probiotic supplements, whey proteins and soy. CONCLUSION: The diet, as a potentially modifiable environmental factor, plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. The reduction in the consumption of fermentable carbohydrates and polyols combined with the increase in the consumption of fruits and vegetables as well as the exclusion of products of animal origin such as beef, pork, milk and eggs can help control inflammation and improve the quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. The use of probiotics increases food tolerance and, whey and soy proteins, can alter body composition and reduce inflammation.

Introduction: The relationship between diet and health has aroused scientific interest, especially the consumption of antioxidant nutrients naturally present in foods, because of its action against the deleterious effects of free radicals in the body. Objective: This study aimed to estimate the intake of antioxidant nutrients and its relationship with lipid profile and oxidative stress in student users of a university restaurant in comparison with non-users. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 145 university students divided into two groups: users of the university restaurant (group 1, n = 73) and non-users (group 2, n = 72). We measured body mass index and waist circumference, and estimated the intake of antioxidant micronutrients. Serum concentrations of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, and plasma concentrations of malondialdehyde were determined. Results and conclusion: Intake of copper, zinc, selenium, and vitamin C were within the recommendations in both groups, and vitamins A and E were below the reference values. There was a correlation between the intake of vitamin C and triglycerides. Group 1 members had better dietary patterns in relation to antioxidant micronutrients, reflecting less atherogenic lipid profile and lower exposure to oxidative stress compared to group 2.

Introducción: la relación entre la dieta y la salud ha despertado interés científico, especialmente en lo referente al consumo de nutrientes antioxidantes presentes de forma natural en los alimentos, debido a su acción contra los efectos nocivos de los radicales libres en el cuerpo. Objetivo: el objetivo de este estudio fue estimar la ingesta de nutrientes antioxidantes y su relación con el perfil lipídico y el estrés oxidativo en estudiantes usuarios de un restaurante universitario, en comparación con los no usuarios. Métodos: este es un estudio transversal que incluye 145 estudiantes universitarios, divididos en dos grupos: los usuarios del restaurante universitario (grupo 1, n = 73) y no usuarios (grupo 2, n = 72). Fueron medidos el índice de masa corporal y la circunferencia de la cintura, y se estimó la ingesta de micronutrientes antioxidantes. Se determinaron las concentraciones séricas de colesterol total, colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de alta densidad, colesterol unido a lipoproteínas de baja densidad, los niveles de triglicéridos y las concentraciones plasmáticas de malondialdehído. Resultados y conclusiones: la ingesta de cobre, zinc, selenio y la vitamina C se encontraba dentro de las recomendaciones de los dos grupos, y la de vitaminas A y E estaba por debajo de los valores de referencia. Hubo una correlación entre el consumo de vitamina C y los triglicéridos. Miembros del grupo 1 mostraron mejores patrones dietéticos en relación con micronutrientes antioxidantes, lo que refleja menos perfil lipídico aterogénico y una menor exposición al estrés oxidativo en comparación con el grupo 2.

Introduction: studies show changes in zinc metabolism in women with breast cancer. This mineral has antioxidant action, and disorders in its biochemical parameters are related to poor prognosis of the disease and increase in the carcinogenic process. Objective: this study evaluated the activity of enzyme superoxide dismutase and biochemical parameters related to zinc, and investigated the existence of correlation between these variables and the marker of oxidative stress in these patients. Methods: this was a case-control study with 66 women aged between 20 and 50 years old, distributed into: case group (women with breast cancer, n = 34) and control group (healthy women, n = 32). Zinc intake was analyzed by three-day food diary, using Nutwin software, version 1.5. Plasma and erythrocyte zinc concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry method (λ = 213.9). Superoxide dismutase activity was assessed by Griess colorimetric method, and plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were analyzed. Results and discussion: mean levels of zinc intake, superoxide dismutase and TBARS were higher than recommended for the study participants with statistical difference for enzyme superoxide dismutase (p<0.05). Mean plasma and erythrocyte concentrations of zinc were reduced in both groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: therefore, it can be assumed that zinc intake in women with breast cancer does not impact plasma and erythrocyte concentrations of this mineral. High superoxide dismutase activity in women with breast cancer may be due to a compensatory mechanism of regulation via oxidative stress found in this disease.

Introduccion: diversos estudios muestran alteraciones en el metabolismo del zinc en mujeres con cancer de mama. Este mineral posee accion antioxidante, y los disturbios en sus parametros bioquimicos estan relacionados con peor pronostico de la enfermedad y agravamiento del proceso carcinogenico. Objetivos: este estudio evaluo la actividad de la enzima superoxido dismutasa y los parametros bioquimicos relativos al zinc e investigo la existencia de correlacion entre esas variables y el marcador del estres oxidativo en estas pacientes. Metodos: este fue un estudio caso-control con 66 mujeres, con edad ente 20 y 50 anos, distribuidas en: grupo caso (mujeres con cancer de mama, n = 34) y grupo control (mujeres saludables, n = 32). La ingestion del zinc fue realizada por medio del registro alimentario de tres dias, utilizando el programa Nutwin version 1.5. Las concentraciones de zinc plasmatico y eritrocitario fueron determinadas segun el metodo de espectrofotometria de absorcion atomica de llama (λ = 213,9). La actividad de la superoxido dismutasa fue evaluada por el metodo colorimetrico de Griess y fueron analizadas sustancias reactivas al acido tiobarbiturico (TBARS). Resultados y discusion: los valores medios de la ingestion de zinc, superoxido dismutasa y TARBS eran superiores a los recomendados para las participantes del estudio, con una diferencia estadistica para la enzima superoxido dismutasa (p>0,05). La media de las concentraciones plasmatica y eritrocitaria de zinc fueron reducidos en ambos grupos (p>0.05). Conclusiones: por lo tanto, se puede suponer que la ingesta de zinc en mujeres con cancer de mama no influye en las concentraciones plasmaticas y eritrocitarias de ese mineral. La elevada actividad de la superoxido dismutasa en las mujeres con cancer de mama puede ser debida a un mecanismo de regulación compensatorio mediante el estrés oxidativo presente en esa enfermedad.

Introduction: Ulcerative rectocolitis is characterized by diffuse mucosal inflammation and oxidative stress. Thus, the organism activates the antioxidant defence system in an attempt to reduce the excessive production of reactive oxygen species or neutralize them. Objective: This study evaluated the effect of zinc supplementation on the activity of the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) in patients with ulcerative rectocolitis. Methods: The study included 24 patients, aged between 20 and 59 years and diagnosed with ulcerative rectocolitis, in the remission stage of the disease, who were divided into two groups: experimental - deficient in zinc (n=12) and control - normal or high zinc (n=12). Only the first group underwent supplement intervention, in the form of zinc gluconate (30 mg Zn/day), taken daily in the morning, fasted for 60 days. Plasma and erythrocyte zinc concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The erythrocyte SOD activity was determined in vitro according to the methodology recommended by the manufacturer Randox. Results and Discussion: Zinc supplementation caused a significant increase in the plasma concentrations of the mineral, and showed a significant reduction in erythrocyte zinc, remaining within normal limits. The SOD activity was high in patients of both the experimental and control groups, with no difference after supplementation. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that zinc supplementation improves the homeostatic condition of the mineral, with no change in SOD activity, as a marker of oxidative stress in patients with ulcerative rectocolitis.

Introduction: The accumulation of visceral fat affects the metabolism of hormones and some nutrients, but these mechanisms remain unclear. Objective: To assess the influence of cortisol on the metabolism of zinc in morbidly obese women. Method: Cross-sectional, case-control study involving 80 women aged between 20 and 59 years. The participants were divided into two groups: experimental (morbidly obese, n = 40) and control (normal weight, n = 40). Zinc concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy and serum and urinary cortisol by chemiluminescence method. Results: Zinc intake was significantly different between groups. Mean plasma zinc was lower in obese compared to control group. Mean values for erythrocyte zinc were 44.52 ± 7.84 μg/gHb and 40.17 ± 6.71 μg/gHb for obese and control groups, respectively. Urinary excretion of this mineral was higher in obese compared to control subjects (p < 0.05). Mean values for plasma cortisol were 9.58 ± 4.86 μg/dL for obese and 9.89 ± 5.61 μg/dL for control groups. Mean values for urinary cortisol were 163.00 ± 100.35 μg/dL and 109.71 ± 34.88 μg/dL for obese and control groups, respectively (p > 0.05). The correlation analysis between cortisol and zinc was not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Obese patients have hypozincemia and high erythrocyte zinc levels. The correlation between zinc parameters and cortisol concentration showed no influence of this hormone on zinc metabolism.

Introducción: El acumulo de grasa visceral compromete el metabolismo de hormonas y de algunos nutrientes, sin embargo, esos mecanismos aún no están esclarecidos. Objetivos: Evaluar la influencia del cortisol sobre el metabolismo del zinc en mujeres obesas mórbidas. Métodos: Estudio transversal, caso-control, envolviendo 80 mujeres, en la faja etaria entre 20 y 59 años. Las participantes fueron distribuidas en dos grupos: experimental (obesas mórbidas, n = 40) y control (eutróficas, n = 40). Las concentraciones de zinc fueron determinadas por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica y el cortisol sérico y urinario, por quimioluminiscencia. Resultados: La ingestión de zinc reveló diferencia significativa entre los grupos estudiados. Los valores medios de zinc plasmáticos fueron inferiores en las obesas cuando fueron comparadas al grupo control. El promedio de zinc eritrocítico fue de 44,52 ± 7,84 μg/gHb e de 40,17 ± 6,71 μg/gHb para las obesas y control, respectivamente. La excreción urinaria de este mineral fue superior en las obesas cuando comparadas al control (p < 0,05). Los valores medios del cortisol sérico fueron de 9,58 ± 4,86 μg/dL para las obesas y de 9,89 ± 5,61 μg/dL para el control. Las medias de cortisol urinario fueron de 163,00 ± 100,35 μg/dL e de 109,71 ± 34,88 μg/dL para obesas y control, respectivamente (p > 0,05). El análisis de correlación entre el cortisol y el zinc no fue significativo. Conclusiones: las pacientes obesas presentan hypozincemia y elevada concentración de zin eritrocítico. La correlación entre los parámetros de zinc y las concentraciones de cortisol no demuestran influencia de esta hormona sobre el metabolismo del mineral.

Introduction: Preeclampsia is a complex syndrome of unknown aetiologic origin. It is characterized by the clinical triad of hypertension, edema and protenuria. Current concepts of the genesis of preeclampsia include endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Objective: This study assessed the relationship between the activity of superoxide dismutase, the zincemia and the preeclampsia. Methods: A case-control study was carried out with 94 women, age between 17 and 44 years, which were divided in two groups: women with preeclampsia (n = 44) and control group women with normal pregnancy (n = 50). The activity of superoxide dismutase enzyme was determined according to Ransod kit. Zinc concentrations in plasma and erythrocytes were determined using the flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry technique, both determined before delivery and during puerperium. Student's t-test and the paired t-test were used for statistical analysis, and significance was established at p < 0.05. Results: The study revealed plasma hypozincemia more pronounced in women with severe preeclampsia (p < 0.05). This behavior was not observed in eryth-rocytes, whose concentrations remained stable, before delivery and puerperium in women with preeclampsia and normal pregnancy. The antioxidant activity of the enzyme superoxide dismutase was found elevated in women with and without preeclampsia (p>0.05), with significant reduction in activity in the postpartum period (p < 0.05) in both groups studied (p>0.05). Conclusions: This study shows there are alterations in biochemical parameters of zinc in women with preeclampsia. The activity of superoxide dismutase shows that this marker cannot be used to predict the evolution of the disease.

Introducción: La preeclampsia es un síndrome de origen desconocido del punto de vista etiológico. Se caracteriza clínicamente por una tríada de síntomas: edema, hipertensión y proteinuria. Los conceptos actuales sobre la patogénesis de la preeclampsia incluyen la disfunción endotelial y el estrés oxidativo. Objetivo: En este estudio se evaluó la relación entre la actividad de la superóxido dismutasa, zincemia y preeclampsia. Métodos: Este estudio de casos y controles se llevó a cabo con 94 mujeres, con un rango de edad situado entre 17 y 44 años, los que fueron divididos en dos grupos: mujeres con preeclampsia (n = 44) y grupo control, las mujeres con embarazo normal (n = 50). La actividad de la superóxido dismutasa se llevó a cabo según el kit Ransod. Las concentraciones de zinc en plasma y los eritrocitos fue realizada según el metodo de espectrofotometría de absorción atómica de llama, ambos determinados antes del nacimiento y después del parto. La prueba de la t de Student y la prueba t pareada fue utilizada para el análisis estadístico (p < 0,05). Resultados: El estudio reveló hypozincemia en el plasma, con valores más altos en las mujeres con preeclampsia severa (p < 0,05). Esta situación no fue observada en los eritrocitos, cuya concentración se mantuvo estable antes del parto y en el puerperio, en las mujeres con preeclampsia y en las con embarazo normal. La actividad antioxidante de la superóxido dismutasa, se encontró elevada en las mujeres con y sin preeclampsia (p > 0,05), con una reducción significativa en la actividad en el periodo postparto (p < 0,05) en ambos grupos (p > 0,05). Conclusiones: Este estudio revelló que hay cambios en los parámetros bioquímicos de zinc en mujeres con preeclampsia. La actividad de la superóxido dismutasa se revelló que este marcador no se puede utilizar para predecir la progresión de la enfermedad.

OBJETIVOS: avaliar o estado nutricional de ferro em escolares de instituições públicas de ensino de Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. MÉTODOS: corte transversal, envolvendo amostra aleatória, selecionada em duas etapas, de 747 escolares (7-11 anos), de ambos os sexos, no período de agosto / setembro de 2000. A anemia foi rastreada em 747 escolares e para o diagnóstico adotou-se a concentração de hemoglobina (Hb) <11,5g/dL. As reservas corporais de ferro foram estimadas em 207 escolares, mediante análise das concentrações de ferritina sérica (FerS), considerando-se baixas reservas valores <15 µg/L. RESULTADOS: a prevalência de concentrações inadequadas de Hb (< 11,5g/dL) foi de 14,3% (IC95% 12,2-17,4) e de reservas inadequadas de ferro (FerS< 15,0µg/L) de 20,3% (IC95% 15,2-26,6). A prevalência de anemia foi semelhante entre os sexos (p=0,60) e as faixas etárias (p=0,85). Comportamento distributivo similar foi observado no que diz respeito às reservas inadequadas de ferro, frentes às variáveis sexo (p=0,19) e idade (p=0,24). As concentrações de FerS não mostraram correlação (r=0,1; p=0,168) com as de Hb. A prevalência de anemia ferropênica (Hb< 11,5 g/dL e FerS< 15,0 µg/L) foi de 26,3% (IC95% 17,3-37,5). CONCLUSÕES: em Teresina, a deficiência de ferro e a anemia em escolares devem ser consideradas como um problema de saúde pública que requer efetivo programa de prevenção e controle. No entanto, a anemia parece não ser explicada apenas pela deficiência de ferro; outros fatores etiológicos devem, portanto, ser considerados, a exemplo da deficiência de outros micronutrientes, infecções/infestações parasitárias, distúrbios hereditários e exposição a poluentes ambientais.

OBJECTIVES: to assess iron nutritional status of public school children in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. METHODS: a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 747 school children of both sexes, aged between seven and eleven years, who were randomly selected using a two-step sampling procedure, in August/September 2000. Children with hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations less than 11.5 g/dL were evaluated as anemic and low body iron (Sfer< 15µg/L) was evaluated in 207 children. RESULTS: the prevalence of anemia was 14.3% (95%CI 12.2-17.4) and of low body iron 20.3% (95%CI 15.2-26.6). Anemia and body iron depletion were not correlated with gender (p=0.60; p=0.96, respectively) or age group (p=0.85; p=0.53, respectively). SFer was not correlated (r=0.1; p=0.168) with Hb concentrations. The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (Hb< 11.5g/dL and SFer< 15.0µg/L) was 26.3% (95%CI 17.3-37.5). CONCLUSIONS: iron deficiency and anemia seem to be a public health problem among school children in Teresina. Concerted action to prevent and control these conditions is strongly recommended. However, all anemia cannot be explained by iron deficiency. Therefore, it may be wise to consider other etiologies, such as micronutrient status, parasite infestation, hereditary disorders and exposure to environmental pollutants.

OBJETIVO: Determinar as concentrações plasmáticas e eritrocitárias de zinco em idosos portadores e não-portadores de catarata senil em um serviço oftalmológico especializado, em Teresina-Piauí. MÉTODOS: Estudo quantitativo, transversal e controlado, realizado no Hospital de Olhos Francisco Vilar, Piauí, Brasil. Participaram 56 idosos (37 mulheres, 19 homens) sem condições associadas a modificações nos níveis de zinco ou aumento do risco de catarata. Escore > II foi utilizado para definir a presença de catarata, de acordo com o Lens Opacities Classification System II. As concentrações de zinco foram determinadas por espectrometria de absorção atômica em chama. Análise estatística incluiu os testes t de Student e qui-quadrado e 0,05 como nível de significância. RESULTADOS: Catarata senil foi identificada em 58,9% dos participantes, predominando o tipo nuclear (51,8%), seguido pelo cortical (26,8%) e subcapsular posterior (8,9%). Deficiência de zinco no plasma (<70 μg/dL) e no eritrócito (<40 μg/gHb) foi constatada em 49,1% e 30,4% dos idosos, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças significativas entre portadores e não-portadores de catarata, independente do tipo, quanto às concentrações de zinco plasmático (p=0,165) ou eritrocitário (p=0,426). CONCLUSÃO: Deficiência de zinco no plasma ou eritrócito foi comum entre os idosos; porém, os dados indicam não haver diferenças significativas nos referidos parâmetros quanto à presença de catarata senil, independente do tipo.

PURPOSE: To determine plasma and erythrocyte zinc concentrations in elderly with and without senile cataract in a tertiary eye care center at Teresina-Piauí. METHODS: A quantitative, transversal and controlled study was developed at the Hospital de Olhos Francisco Vilar, Piauí, Brasil. Fifty-six elderly subjects (37 females, 19 males) with no known conditions that modify zinc blood levels or increase risk of cataract were included. A score >II was used to define cataract, according to Lens Opacities Classification System II. Plasma and erythrocyte zinc concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Statistical tests included Student's t and chi-square tests, with a probability level of 0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Senile cataract was present in 58.9% of the subjects. The most common type was nuclear (51.8%), followed by cortical (26.8%) and posterior subcapsular (8.9%). Zinc deficiencies in plasma (<70 μg/dL) and erythrocyte (<40 μg/gHb) were found in 49.1% and 30.4% of participants, respectively. There were no significant differences between elderly with or without cataract, regardless of type, in relation to plasma (p=0.165) or erythrocyte (p=0.426) zinc concentrations. CONCLUSION: Zinc deficiency in plasma or erythrocyte were common among the elderly. However, the data suggest that no significant differences exist between elderly with or without senile cataract, regardless of type, in relation to the referred parameters of zinc evaluation.

O estudo avaliou o efeito das intervenções com sulfato ferroso e com ferro bisglicina quelato nas concentrações de hemoglobina e ferritina sérica em escolares de 7-11 anos, de ambos os sexos, de Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Foi desenvolvido ensaio clínico-comunitário, randomizado, envolvendo 138 escolares, com níveis de hemoglobina < 11,5g/dL, alocados, individualmente, em dois grupos de tratamento. Um grupo (n = 71) recebeu 40mg de sulfato ferroso, uma vez/semana, e o outro (n = 67) 3,8mg de ferro bisglicina quelato, fracionados em biscoitos consumidos três vezes/semana, durante oito semanas. Houve um incremento (p < 0,01) médio, nas concentrações de hemoglobina, de 1,1g/dL entre os escolares que receberam sulfato ferroso e de 0,9g/dL para aqueles que receberam ferro bisglicina quelato, embora sem diferença (p > 0,05) na comparação intergrupos. Nenhum impacto foi observado (p > 0,05) nas reservas corporais de ferro. Entretanto, escolares que apresentaram depleção das reservas corporais de ferro (< 15ng/mL), no início dos tratamentos, tiveram aumento (p < 0,01) nas concentrações médias de ferritina sérica, após a intervenção, embora com efeito similar (p > 0,05) entre os grupos de tratamento. Os resultados confirmam a efetividade das intervenções e ratificam o uso do esquema semanal com sulfato ferroso e com ferro bisglicina quelato no tratamento da deficiência do mineral e da anemia ferropriva.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of supplementation with ferrous sulfate and iron bis-glycinate chelate on hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels among schoolchildren (7-11 years) of both sexes. A randomized community-based trial including 138 anemic children (hemoglobin < 11.5g/dL) was conducted in Teresina, Piauí State, Brazil. Children were assigned to two treatment groups on an individual basis. One group (n = 71) received 40mg iron as ferrous sulfate once weekly and the other group (n = 67) received 3.8mg of iron bis-glycinate chelate-enriched cookies, 3x/week, for 8 weeks. The interventions showed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in hemoglobin levels (1.1g/dL) for children who received ferrous sulfate and 0.9g/dl in those who received iron bis-glycinate chelate, although not significant in the inter-group comparison (p > 0.05). No effect was observed on body iron for either intervention (p > 0.05). Children with depleted iron stores (< 15ng/mL) at the beginning of interventions showed increased serum ferritin concentrations after 8 weeks (p < 0.01), although no difference between treatments (p > 0.05) was observed. The results confirm the effectiveness of the iron supplementation interventions and corroborate the use of iron salts or ferrous bisglycinate chelate on a weekly basis to overcome iron deficiency and anemia.

O estudo avaliou o efeito das intervenções com sulfato ferroso e com ferro bisglicina quelato nas concentrações de hemoglobina e ferritina sérica em escolares de 7-11 anos, de ambos os sexos, de Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Foi desenvolvido ensaio clínico-comunitário, randomizado, envolvendo 138 escolares, com níveis de hemoglobina < 11,5g/dL, alocados, individualmente, em dois grupos de tratamento. Um grupo (n = 71) recebeu 40mg de sulfato ferroso, uma vez/semana, e o outro (n = 67) 3,8mg de ferro bisglicina quelato, fracionados em biscoitos consumidos três vezes/semana, durante oito semanas. Houve um incremento (p < 0,01) médio, nas concentrações de hemoglobina, de 1,1g/dL entre os escolares que receberam sulfato ferroso e de 0,9g/dL para aqueles que receberam ferro bisglicina quelato, embora sem diferença (p > 0,05) na comparação intergrupos. Nenhum impacto foi observado (p > 0,05) nas reservas corporais de ferro. Entretanto, escolares que apresentaram depleção das reservas corporais de ferro (< 15ng/mL), no início dos tratamentos, tiveram aumento (p < 0,01) nas concentrações médias de ferritina sérica, após a intervenção, embora com efeito similar (p > 0,05) entre os grupos de tratamento. Os resultados confirmam a efetividade das intervenções e ratificam o uso do esquema semanal com sulfato ferroso e com ferro bisglicina quelato no tratamento da deficiência do mineral e da anemia ferropriva.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of supplementation with ferrous sulfate and iron bis-glycinate chelate on hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels among schoolchildren (7-11 years) of both sexes. A randomized community-based trial including 138 anemic children (hemoglobin < 11.5g/dL) was conducted in Teresina, Piauí State, Brazil. Children were assigned to two treatment groups on an individual basis. One group (n = 71) received 40mg iron as ferrous sulfate once weekly and the other group (n = 67) received 3.8mg of iron bis-glycinate chelate-enriched cookies, 3x/week, for 8 weeks. The interventions showed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in hemoglobin levels (1.1g/dL) for children who received ferrous sulfate and 0.9g/dl in those who received iron bis-glycinate chelate, although not significant in the inter-group comparison (p > 0.05). No effect was observed on body iron for either intervention (p > 0.05). Children with depleted iron stores (< 15ng/mL) at the beginning of interventions showed increased serum ferritin concentrations after 8 weeks (p < 0.01), although no difference between treatments (p > 0.05) was observed. The results confirm the effectiveness of the iron supplementation interventions and corroborate the use of iron salts or ferrous bisglycinate chelate on a weekly basis to overcome iron deficiency and anemia.

O estado nutricional do zinco e ácido fólico foi avaliado em 74 adolescentes grávidas, de baixa renda, entre 13 e 18 anos, atendidas no pré-natal na Maternidade Dona Evangelina Rosa, Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Para avaliar os diferentes esquemas de suplementação no estado nutricional das adolescentes, estas foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em cinco grupos: Os grupos I e II receberam quantidades iguais de ácido fólico (250µg) e diferentes concentrações em ferro (sulfato ferroso) 120 e 80mg, respectivamente. Os grupos III e IV receberam quantidades iguais de ácido fólico (250µg) associado ao sulfato de zinco (5mg) e ferro nas concentrações de 120 e 80mg, respectivamente e o grupo V, apenas ferro, 120mg (rotina). Os resultados quanto ao zinco mostraram uma redução na sua concentração plasmática, sendo esse declínio significativo apenas nos grupos que não receberam o mineral. Quanto ao uso associado de ferro/ácido fólico e ferro/ácido fólico/zinco, verifica-se excelente resposta no estado nutricional referente ao ácido fólico, sendo esse efeito mais expressivo nos grupos que receberam ácido fólico associado ao zinco, sugerindo a possível participação do zinco no aproveitamento da vitamina.

Zinc and folic acid nutritional status was evaluated in 74 low-income pregnant adolescents ranging from 13 to 18 years of age who received prenatal care at the Evangelina Rosa Maternity Hospital in Teresina, Piauí State, Brazil. In order to evaluate the effects of different supplementation regimens on nutritional status, the adolescents were distributed into five groups. Groups I and II received equal amounts of folic acid (250µg) and different doses of iron (ferrous sulfate), 120 and 80mg, respectively. Groups III and IV received equal amounts of folic acid (250µg) associated with zinc sulfate and iron at doses of 120 and 80mg, respectively, while group V received only 120mg of iron (routine dosage). There was a reduction in the zinc plasma concentration, and this decline was significant only in those groups which did not receive zinc supplementation. In relation to combination iron/folic acid and iron/folic acid/zinc, an excellent response was observed for folic acid, and this effect was larger in the groups that received folic acid combined with zinc, suggesting a possible role for zinc in folic acid metabolism.

O estado nutricional do zinco e ácido fólico foi avaliado em 74 adolescentes grávidas, de baixa renda, entre 13 e 18 anos, atendidas no pré-natal na Maternidade Dona Evangelina Rosa, Teresina, Piauí, Brasil. Para avaliar os diferentes esquemas de suplementação no estado nutricional das adolescentes, estas foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em cinco grupos: Os grupos I e II receberam quantidades iguais de ácido fólico (250µg) e diferentes concentrações em ferro (sulfato ferroso) 120 e 80mg, respectivamente. Os grupos III e IV receberam quantidades iguais de ácido fólico (250µg) associado ao sulfato de zinco (5mg) e ferro nas concentrações de 120 e 80mg, respectivamente e o grupo V, apenas ferro, 120mg (rotina). Os resultados quanto ao zinco mostraram uma redução na sua concentração plasmática, sendo esse declínio significativo apenas nos grupos que não receberam o mineral. Quanto ao uso associado de ferro/ácido fólico e ferro/ácido fólico/zinco, verifica-se excelente resposta no estado nutricional referente ao ácido fólico, sendo esse efeito mais expressivo nos grupos que receberam ácido fólico associado ao zinco, sugerindo a possível participação do zinco no aproveitamento da vitamina.

Zinc and folic acid nutritional status was evaluated in 74 low-income pregnant adolescents ranging from 13 to 18 years of age who received prenatal care at the Evangelina Rosa Maternity Hospital in Teresina, Piauí State, Brazil. In order to evaluate the effects of different supplementation regimens on nutritional status, the adolescents were distributed into five groups. Groups I and II received equal amounts of folic acid (250µg) and different doses of iron (ferrous sulfate), 120 and 80mg, respectively. Groups III and IV received equal amounts of folic acid (250µg) associated with zinc sulfate and iron at doses of 120 and 80mg, respectively, while group V received only 120mg of iron (routine dosage). There was a reduction in the zinc plasma concentration, and this decline was significant only in those groups which did not receive zinc supplementation. In relation to combination iron/folic acid and iron/folic acid/zinc, an excellent response was observed for folic acid, and this effect was larger in the groups that received folic acid combined with zinc, suggesting a possible role for zinc in folic acid metabolism.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o estado nutricional de recém-nascidos de mães adolescentes com até 18 anos de idade, de baixa renda, suplementadas durante a gravidez com ferro, em diferentes concentrações, zinco e ácido fólico. Estas mães fizeram pré-natal no Instituto de Perinatologia Social do Piauí, Maternidade Dona Evangelina Rosa, no município de Teresina, Piauí, Nordeste do Brasil. As adolescentes foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em cinco grupos: grupos I e II receberam quantidades constantes de ácido fólico (250 µg) e diferentes concentrações de ferro, na forma de sulfato ferroso (120 e 80 mg, respectivamente); grupos III e IV receberam quantidades constantes de ácido fólico (250 µg) associado ao sulfato de zinco (5 mg) e ferro nas concentrações de 120 e 80 mg, respectivamente; e grupo V, considerado controle, recebeu apenas ferro (120 mg) (rotina da Instituição). A avaliação do estado nutricional de 74 recém-nascidos foi feita através de dados referentes à idade, peso, comprimento e perímetro cefálico, por ocasião do nascimento. De acordo com os resultados, as médias de peso (3000 ± 418 g), comprimento (48,07 ± 2,15 cm) e perímetro cefálico (33,53 ± 1,50 cm) encontradas para os filhos de mães do grupo V (rotina local) não diferem dos grupos de intervenção. Conclui-se que os recém-nascidos de adolescentes suplementadas com ferro em diferentes concentrações (120 e 80 mg), zinco e ácido fólico apresentaram um bom perfil nutricional. No entanto, não se observou, entre os grupos de intervenção e o controle, diferenças significativas na duração da gravidez ou no estado nutricional dos bebês.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status of newborn infants of low income adolescent mothers, aged up to 18 years old, supplemented during pregnancy with iron, in different concentrations, zinc and folic acid. These mothers received prenatal care supervision in the Institute of Social Perinatology of Piauí, Dona Evangelina Rosa Maternity, located in the city of Teresina, Piauí, Northeast of Brazil. The adolescents were distributed at random into five groups: groups I and II received constant quantities of folicc acid (250 µg) and different iron concentrations, in the form of iron sulfate (120 and 80 mg, respectively); groups III and IV received constant quantities of folic acid (250 µg) associated to zinc sulfate (5 µg) and iron in the concentrations of 120 and 80 mg, respectively; and group V, considered control, received only 120 mg of iron (Institution routine). The evaluation of the nutritional status of 74 newborn infants was done through data referring to their age, weight, height and cephalic perimeter, on the occasion of their birth. According to the results, the averages of weight (3000 ± 418g), height ( 48.07 ± 2,15 cm) and cephalic perimeter (33.53 ± 1,50 cm) found in children of group V mothers (local routine) did not present significant differences in relation to the intervention groups. The newborn infants of adolescents supplemented with iron in different concentrations (120 and 80 mg), zinc and folic acid, presented a good nutritional profile. However, it was not observed, between the intervention groups and the control, significant differences in the pregnancy duration or in the nutritional status of the babies.