Gambaran Pengetahuan Ibu Tentang Pemberian Nutrisi Pada Anak Toddler Dengan Gizi Kurang Dan Gizi Buruk

Abstract

Introduction: Undernutrition and malnutrition among toddlers (aged 1–3 years) remain significant public health issues in Indonesia. One of the contributing factors to a child's nutritional status is the level of parental knowledge, particularly mothers, in understanding their child's nutritional needs. This study aimed to describe the level of parental knowledge regarding nutrition in toddlers with undernutrition and malnutrition in the working area of Garuda Public Health Center, Pekanbaru. Methods: A descriptive quantitative approach was employed, using total sampling technique involving 35 parents of toddlers identified with undernutrition and malnutrition. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through univariate analysis. Results: The results showed that 48.6% of respondents had a moderate level of knowledge, 28.6% had a low level of knowledge, and only 22.9% had a good level of knowledge. The average level of knowledge was categorized as moderate. Conclusion: These findings indicate the need for more intensive and continuous nutrition education to enhance parental understanding of appropriate nutritional practices for toddlers.