DIFFERENCE OF DIETARY PATTERNS IN STUNTING AND NON STUNTING CHILDREN 2-5 YEARS OLD IN THE LANGKAT DISTRICT

Abstract

Background: Stunting in children under five years of age is still less recognized because the difference between stunted children and normal children at that age is not really seen. Many factors influence the occurrence of stunting in children under five, one of which is the child's diet. This study aims to analyze the differences in diet among stunted and non-stunting children aged 2-5 years in Langkat district. 

Materials and Methods: This research is a survey research using a cross-sectional design. The sample in this study amounted to 60 children, consisting of 30 stunted children and 30 non-stunting children. Dietary pattern data consisting of food intake was obtained using the 24-hour food recall Form. Data analysis used the Mann-Whitney test.

Result: The results showed that there were differences in dietary patterns in stunted and non-stunting children based on the amount of nutrient intake for energy (p = 0.000), carbohydrates (p = 0.000), protein (p = 0.000), vitamin A (p = 0.014), iron (p. = 0.001), zinc (p = 0.000), magnesium (p = 0.000) and calcium (p = 0.000), except for vitamin C (p = 0.092).

Conclusion: Officers are expected to further improve maternal knowledge through disseminating information about the importance of balanced nutrition for toddlers so that child feeding varies, and the socialization of exclusive breastfeeding and efforts to reduce stunting through village funds.

Keywords: Stunting, Not Stunting, Dietary Pattern, Toddler, 2-5 years old.