Abstract

FREITAS, Maria do Carmo Soares de; MINAYO, Maria Cecília de Souza  and  FONTES, Gardênia Abreu Vieira. The field of Food and Nutrition from the perspective of comprehensive theories. Ciênc. saúde coletiva [online]. 2011, vol.16, n.1, pp. 31-38. ISSN 1413-8123.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1413-81232011000100008.

The present article is a brief reflection on the field of Food and Nutrition as it interconnects with the humanities. Relevant theorists' thinking as well as the experience of the authors were used as references. The main purpose is to stimulate the discussion on the food-and-nutrition issue, taking into account the complexities involved in the relations between food consumption and dietetics. Also it is expected to motivate nutritionists to reflect upon their professional practice. Incorporating the use of hermeneutics for the comprehension of the subject is justified in terms of its methodological significance. The importance of taking action in guiding food consumption through the association of the technical knowledge of the field with various perspectives of comprehensive theories is also discussed.

Keywords : Field of Food and Nutrition; Comprehensive theory in Nutrition; Interpretative approach.