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Occupational Medicine Advance Access published online on October 16, 2006
Occupational Medicine, doi:10.1093/occmed/kql103
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© The Author 2006. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oxfordjournals.org

Article

Protein-energy supplements to preserve nutritional status of sugar cane cutters

Paula Chiarello 1 *

1 Av Bandeirantes, 3900 Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo 14049-190, Brazil

* To whom correspondence should be addressed.
Paula Chiarello, E-mail: paulagc{at}fmrp.usp.br


  Abstract

Background Sugar cane cutters in south-eastern Brazil are temporarily hired for the harvest period of 8 months. They often have minimal benefits and may not receive adequate nutrition.

Aims To evaluate alterations in weight and body composition of sugar cane cutters during harvest with the use of protein-energy and electrolyte supplements.

Methods Three products were used daily: a milk drink, a seasoned manioc meal mixture and an electrolyte replacement fluid, adding ~398 kcal and 28.5 g of protein/day.

Results There were small, but significant, reductions in body mass index and percentage body fat with maintenance of lean mass. There was a significant improvement in hydration status, serum albumin and cholesterol. There were no medical absences related to dehydration.

Conclusions Even though alterations in body mass and biochemistry were small, the significance of the findings suggests these supplements may have a useful role to play in reducing lean mass losses and maintaining nutritional and hydration status of these workers.

Keywords: Nutritional status; sugar cane cutters; supplements.
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