Comensalidade como fator de conexão em um mundo solitário

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the scientific literature regarding the approach to commensality as a tool in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with loneliness. A narrative review was carried out, in which the databases PubMed, NCBI, Google Scholar and Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo) were consulted between March and June 2020, with the descriptors in the Portuguese language: Comensality, Solitude, Suicide, Hospitality and Technology. And in the English language: Commensality, Loneliness, Suicide, Hospitality, Technology. Investigating original, national and international articles published from 1961 to 2020. Other contents were also used, such as films, books and scientific magazines. In all, 77 papers were selected according to the inclusion criteria. Loneliness affects people of all age groups and each year there is an increase in the rates of cases of diseases associated with it. As a result of loneliness, naturally, there is an increase in the number of people who eat alone. This article brings the concept of loneliness and current epidemiological data related to it. Commensality is the act of individuals sharing a meal together. With the new technologies, new scenarios arise to be explored and with that, the commensality has presented new configurations. Therefore, changes in the act of eating are emerging, which can generate discomfort, but also new possibilities, such as the development of applications, social networks or the practice of digital commensality (Mukbang and Skeating). In a period of vulnerability of social unity, the role of commensality is reflected as a promoter of interpersonal ties and a satiator of the physiological and symbolic hunger that comes from the core of the human being. However, despite the impact of new technologies on eating, socialization is still one of its primary factors. Commensality then presents itself as an important tool to generate social interaction and, consequently, face the current scenario that is marked by impersonality and haste in everyday life. Eating is not a trivial and utilitarian practice, and must have its place in the discussion of public policies and actions that aim to promote health. Finally, this study seeks to expand the possibilities of production in the field of Nutrition with a multidisciplinary and current look. For studies in the field of food and nutrition cannot be accommodated in one-sided eyes with the danger of being ostracized.