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Iron deficiency anemia remains a major public health problem among pregnant women in Indonesia, with a national prevalence of 37.1% and higher rates in regions such as Brebes Regency. Adequate nutritional knowledge and sufficient iron intake are expected to prevent decreases in hemoglobin (Hb) levels during the third trimester. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between nutritional knowledge, iron intake adequacy, and Hb levels among third-trimester pregnant women at Puskesmas Brebes. An analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted on 62 respondents using total sampling. Data were collected through a nutritional knowledge questionnaire, a Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ) to assess iron intake based on the Recommended Dietary Allowance of 27 mg/day, and Hb measurement using a digital device. The prevalence of anemia was 32.3%, with a mean Hb level of 11.25 ± 1.74 g/dL. Most respondents had high nutritional knowledge (72.6%), but 79.0% had inadequate iron intake. Chi-Square analysis showed no significant relationship between nutritional knowledge and Hb levels (p=0.109) or between iron intake adequacy and Hb levels (p=0.426). Other factors, including iron absorption inhibitors, compliance with iron supplementation, nutritional status, and limited sample size, may have influenced the results.

Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita spp.) are a byproduct of pumpkin that has great potential to be developed as a functional food ingredient due to their high nutritional content and bioactive compounds. This article aims to examine the valorization (utilization) of pumpkin seeds in various food products and their potential as a functional food. The method used was a narrative literature review through a search of the Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and MDPI databases for the period 2016–2026. The results of the study indicate that pumpkin seeds have been applied in various food products such as cookies, crackers, bread, biscuits, cakes, muffins, and snack bars. The addition of pumpkin seeds generally increases the content of protein, fiber, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, and bioactive compounds that contribute to antioxidant activity. However, increasing the proportion of pumpkin seeds also affects the physical and sensory characteristics of the product, such as darker color, decreased volume, and changes in texture due to reduced gluten content in the dough. Therefore, formulation optimization is needed to achieve a balance between increasing nutritional value and consumer acceptance. Overall, pumpkin seeds have the potential to be used as an ingredient in the development of functional foods.

Primary dysmenorrhea is a common reproductive health problem among adolescents and women of reproductive age, significantly affecting quality of life and academic productivity. Psychological stress and dietary patterns are considered important contributing factors influencing the incidence and severity of menstrual pain. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between stress levels and dietary intake with the occurrence of primary dysmenorrhea in adolescents and women of reproductive age. A literature review was conducted using articles published between 2015 and 2025 retrieved from Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed descriptively and narratively. The findings showed that the prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea ranged from 54.4% to 90.6%. Higher stress levels were significantly associated with increased risk and intensity of menstrual pain (OR up to 4.03). Frequent consumption of sugary foods, fast food, and pro-inflammatory dietary patterns was linked to higher incidence and severity of dysmenorrhea (OR up to 4.8), whereas adequate intake of fruits, vegetables, iron, calcium, and magnesium demonstrated protective effects. Primary dysmenorrhea is multifactorial and significantly associated with stress and dietary intake; therefore, integrated stress management and nutritional education interventions are recommended in adolescent reproductive health programs.

Vegetables are food commodities widely consumed by the public due to their high nutritional content. Chili (Capsicum annuum L.), green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), and Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensia L.) are among the vegetables that can be processed into various delicious dishes or consumed fresh as raw vegetables. To obtain healthy and high-quality vegetable crops, pesticides are commonly used to control pests that may damage the plants. One of the widely used pesticides is chlorpyrifos, which can leave residues that may pose both acute and chronic health risks. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the levels of chlorpyrifos pesticide residues in vegetables. The residue levels were determined using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 230 nm with dichloromethane as the solvent, while qualitative analysis was performed using HPLC by comparing the retention times of standard solutions and vegetable samples. In this study, washing treatments were applied to the vegetables using dichloromethane, distilled water, well water, and tap water (PDAM) to evaluate the effect of washing on pesticide residue levels. The concentrations of pesticide residues in unwashed vegetables were chili (2.6680 ± 0.0214 mg/kg), green beans (2.4658 ± 0.0193 mg/kg), and Chinese cabbage (2.7950 ± 0.0379 mg/kg). The washing process was carried out three times for each solvent. After three washings using dichloromethane and distilled water, pesticide residues were no longer detected, whereas washing with tap water (PDAM) and well water still left residues, although at levels much lower than the Maximum Residue Limit (MRL). The health risk assessment showed that the aHQ and cHQ values were < 1, indicating that consumption within the recommended limits of these samples does not pose health risks, either in the short term or long term. This study provides important information that repeated washing is necessary to effectively reduce pesticide residue levels in vegetables before consumption.  

Preeclampsia remains a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in developing countries such as Indonesia. Early detection and integrated management at the primary healthcare level are essential to prevent disease progression and improve maternal outcomes.  Modifiable risk factors such as maternal obesity, inadequate calcium intake, and poor clinical management contribute significantly to disease progression (WHO, 2021; Zhang et al., 2020). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an Integrated Maternal Health Model (IMHM) combining risk assessment, nutritional intervention, and clinical management for early prevention and control of preeclampsia in primary healthcare settings. A quasi-experimental cohort study was conducted among 104 pregnant women, consisting of 52 preeclamptic and 52 normotensive participants in community health centers in Medan, Indonesia. Data were collected across four antenatal visits, including blood pressure measurements, proteinuria (dipstick), calcium intake, supplementation adherence, and antihypertensive therapy. Statistical analyses included bivariate and longitudinal tests. The results showed that maternal obesity, history of preeclampsia, and hypertension were significant risk factors. Adequate calcium intake demonstrated a protective effect against preeclampsia (p < 0.05), consistent with recent evidence indicating that calcium supplementation can reduce the risk of preeclampsia by up to 49%. However, calcium supplementation did not significantly influence blood pressure among normotensive pregnant women. Antihypertensive therapy, particularly intensive nifedipine regimens, showed significant differences in blood pressure patterns across visits (p < 0.05). In addition, proteinuria levels significantly decreased over time (p < 0.001), indicating improvement in renal function. In conclusion, the IMHM is effective in improving maternal outcomes through a multi-component approach integrating clinical, nutritional, and monitoring strategies. This model provides a practical and scalable framework for early prevention and management of preeclampsia in primary healthcare settings.

Calcium deficiency among Indonesian adolescents remains a nutritional concern that necessitates the development of food products utilizing alternative calcium sources. Eggshell powder has potential as a calcium fortification ingredient due to its high calcium content and abundance as food waste. This study aimed to analyze the effect of eggshell powder substitution on the organoleptic characteristics and acceptability of oatmeal cookies among adolescents aged 10–15 years. This experimental study used a Completely Randomized Design with four substitution levels: 0% (F0), 5% (F1), 6% (F2), and 7% (F3). Organoleptic quality testing was conducted by three trained panelists, while hedonic testing was performed by 30 adolescent panelists on selected formulas (F0, F2, F3), analyzed using the Friedman test (α = 0.05). Organoleptic quality results showed that F2 and F3 had characteristics closest to the control, while F1 showed higher negative attribute intensity in taste and texture parameters. Hedonic test results showed no significant differences between formulas across all parameters (p > 0.05), with mean scores ranging from 3.87 to 4.63 out of a scale of 5 (very much liked). Formula F3 is recommended as the best formula as it demonstrated acceptability comparable to the control while containing the highest calcium substitution level.

This community service program aims to strengthen the strategic role of Posyandu (Integrated Health Post) as a center for family health education through the innovation of its educational functions. Previously, Posyandu operations in the community tended to be limited to routine basic health services, such as weight monitoring and nutritional status recording, while the crucial aspect of health education remained suboptimal. This limitation has contributed to a lack of public understanding regarding healthy lifestyles and the prevention of chronic diseases or stunting. The methods implemented in this program included problem identification through observation, health socialization and education, specialized training for Posyandu cadres to enhance their communication capacity, and direct mentoring during activity implementation. The results demonstrated a significant increase in family knowledge regarding balanced nutrition and clean and healthy living behaviors (PHBS). Furthermore, Posyandu cadres became more active and skilled in delivering health information communicatively to the community. This program demonstrates that by strengthening its educational function, Posyandu can transform into an effective and sustainable family health learning center, significantly impacting the improvement of community health standards at the frontline level.

This study aims to analyze the extent of the effect of honey bee pollen supplementation on increasing appetite and body weight in anemic children. The type of research used in this study is an experimental study with a pre- and post-test one-group design. The research sample consisted of 52 anemic fourth- and fifth-grade elementary school students. The average total food intake (Yellow Rice) showed a significant result (P=0.000), increasing from 241.40±94.334 g to 354.94±122.57 g after the final measurement of ad libitum appetite. The average body weight also showed a significant result (P=0.00), with a mean of 23.59±5.29 kg at pre-test and rising to 24.65±5.58 kg at post-test. The Z-Score calculation for weight-for-age based on the WHO NCHS reference showed a non-significant result: P=0.0180 (0.01±0.04) at pre-test and 0.03±0.08 at post-test. Based on the 24-hour recall analysis over two days, a significant result was obtained (P=0.000), with total energy intake of elementary school students increasing from an average of 1,594±420.17 kcal before intervention to 2,070.2±491.77 kcal after two months of intervention. After statistical testing (Paired T-Test), a P-value of 0.00 (<0.05) was obtained. It can be concluded that the administration of honey bee pollen for 8 weeks at a dose of 25 grams per day significantly increased appetite and body weight in anemic elementary school children.

Anemia remains a significant nutritional problem among adolescent girls due to increased iron requirements during growth and menstruation. Iron (Fe) tablet supplementation is commonly used for prevention, but low compliance often limits its effectiveness. Moringa oleifera leaf tea offers a potential local food–based alternative intervention. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera leaf tea and iron tablets in increasing hemoglobin levels among anemic adolescent girls. A quasi-experimental two-group pretest–posttest design was employed in December 2025 at two junior high schools in Gorontalo City. The sample consisted of 18 adolescent girls with mild to moderate anemia, divided equally into a Moringa leaf tea group and an iron tablet group. The tea group consumed Moringa leaf tea twice daily for 14 days, while the tablet group consumed one iron tablet per week for two weeks. Hemoglobin levels were measured before and after the intervention using a digital hemoglobin analyzer. Data analysis using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann–Whitney test showed that both interventions significantly increased hemoglobin levels. However, the increase was greater in the Moringa group (ΔHb 1.4–3.2 g/dL; p = 0.008) compared to the iron tablet group (ΔHb 0.5–0.8 g/dL; p = 0.007). A significant difference between groups (p < 0.001) indicates that Moringa oleifera leaf tea is more effective as an alternative intervention.

Granola bar is an instant snack product in the form of a bar that has high nutritional value and generally commercial products use imported ingredients such as oats and almonds, but can be developed using local food ingredients such as Job's Tears seeds and walnuts that have high nutritional content such as carbohydrates, protein, fiber, fat, and antioxidants. This study aims to obtain the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts to produce granola bars with the best physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics. The method used is a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with one treatment factor in the form of the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts (100:0, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50) with five replications to obtain 25 experimental units. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. The results showed that the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts significantly affected the levels of fat, protein, carbohydrate, total calories, as well as organoleptic attributes including taste, aroma, texture, and overall preference. This research contributes to efforts Granola bar is an instant snack product in the form of a bar that has high nutritional value and generally commercial products use imported ingredients such as oats and almonds, but can be developed using local food ingredients such as Job's Tears seeds and walnuts that have high nutritional content such as carbohydrates, protein, fiber, fat, and antioxidants. This study aims to obtain the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts to produce granola bars with the best physicochemical and organoleptic characteristics. The method used is a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with one treatment factor in the form of the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts (100:0, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50) with five replications to obtain 25 experimental units. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) test. The results showed that the ratio of Job's Tears seeds and walnuts significantly affected the levels of fat, protein, carbohydrate, total calories, as well as organoleptic attributes including taste, aroma, texture, and overall preference. This research contributes to efforts to diversify local Indonesian food as raw materials for highly nutritious functional food products diversify local Indonesian food as raw materials for highly nutritious functional food products.

The issue of nutrition among school children remains a public health challenge in Indonesia. As an effort to improve the nutritional status of students, the government launched the Free Nutritious Meal program (MBG) in educational units. However, in its implementation, there are still students who do not take advantage of the program. This study aims to identify the reasons why students do not utilize the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) program based on the (ABC) theory of antecedent, behavior, consequence at SD Negeri 100 Kendari. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. The number of informants to be studied is 6 people selected through Purposive Sampling, consisting of students, the principal, teachers, SPPG officers, and parents. Data collection is conducted through in-depth interviews, recording, observation, and documentation. The data are analyzed through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. Research results show that the antecedent of students' knowledge about the MBG program is at the level of knowing to understanding, the application of the provided menu has been in accordance with balanced nutrition principles, and the program policy is supported by various parties. Students' behavior shows rejection of the program influenced by negative experiences, perceptions of the halalness of food containers, and parental prohibitions. The consequence of students not participating does not directly have a negative impact on their learning conditions or physical health, because nutritional needs are still met from other sources. Therefore, students have no motivation to utilize the program. In conclusion, students who do not take advantage of the MBG program are influenced by perceptions, experiences, and parental restrictions. Therefore, it is necessary to improve education, strengthen communication, and enhance the quality of program implementation to increase the utilization of the MBG program.

Anemia in adolescents is a serious health issue that impacts students' concentration and productivity. This community service activity aims to conduct early detection of anemia through a comprehensive manual screening method at three high schools: SMA Sains Alumnika Palembang, SMA Candradimuka, and SMA Mandiri. The implementation method involved three main stages: identification of clinical signs and symptoms (5L), visual observation of the palpebral conjunctiva, and hemoglobin (Hb) level measurement using Point of Care Testing (POCT) devices. Held from April 1st to 8th, 2026, the activity involved the active participation of students and school authorities as an effort toward independent nutritional surveillance. The screening results showed a correlation between subjective symptoms, pale conjunctiva conditions, and Hb measurement results in the field. Changes in students' behavior regarding nutritional intake and the emergence of new awareness among school authorities about the importance of routine check-ups served as indicators of successful social transformation. In conclusion, integrated manual screening is highly effective as a preventive health measure for adolescents within educational environments.

Abstract. Nutritional problems and low levels of healthy food literacy remain significant challenges in rural communities. The utilization of functional foods derived from locally available ingredients represents a strategic approach to improving community health quality. This community engagement program aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of residents—particularly housewives and adolescents—through education and hands-on training in the production of banana–sappan wood yogurt as a nutrient-dense functional food alternative. The program was conducted on January 10, 2026, in Pabuaran Village, Serang Regency, using an educational and participatory approach. Activities included the delivery of educational materials on functional foods and the health benefits of probiotics, as well as a practical demonstration of yogurt preparation. Program evaluation was carried out through observation of participant engagement and interactive discussions. The results indicated that participants were able to successfully follow all stages of yogurt production and demonstrated high enthusiasm for the use of local ingredients as healthy food alternatives. The resulting product exhibited acceptable sensory characteristics and an appealing appearance. This activity contributed to improved nutritional literacy and food processing skills and demonstrated potential to support household-level food self-reliance.  

Anemia during pregnancy is a major public health issue, especially in developing countries like Indonesia, contributing to maternal morbidity and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The second trimester, marked by increased iron needs due to plasma volume expansion and fetal growth, is critical for preventing anemia. Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera), rich in micronutrients, may serve as an effective nutritional intervention to enhance hemoglobin levels in pregnant women. This study aimed to assess the impact of moringa leaf supplementation on hemoglobin levels in second-trimester pregnant women. Using a one-group pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design, the study was conducted at the Tadoy Community Health Center in Bolaang Mongondow Regency from October to November 2025, involving 25 pregnant women selected via purposive sampling. Hemoglobin levels were measured before and after the supplementation. Data analysis, including the Shapiro-Wilk test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test, indicated significant changes in hemoglobin levels (p = 0.000). The results showed a notable increase in hemoglobin levels post-supplementation, supporting the potential of moringa leaves as a safe, affordable, and effective intervention. This finding suggests that moringa leaves could be integrated into antenatal care and nutrition education to help prevent anemia in pregnant women.  

Based on data from FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of The United Nations), it has been predicted that the aquaculture subsector will become one of the most relied-upon resources in the future, especially in meeting food needs, fish-based nutritional needs, and empowering the global community's economy (FAO, 2016). Catfish is a type of freshwater fish that can grow and develop well because it can be cultivated in limited land areas (Marsela, 2018). The frequency of feeding is one of the important factors that need to be considered in catfish farming. To determine the effect of different feeding frequencies on the absolute weight of dumbo catfish, a study was conducted using an experimental design called the Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with 3 treatments and a total of 8 replications. The test treatments were as follows: Treatment 1 (feeding twice a day), Treatment 2 (feeding three times a day), and Treatment 3 (feeding four times a day). The results of the ANOVA test showed a significant value of 0.000 (P < 0.05), indicating a significant difference in each of the different feeding frequencies. The analysis of the Least Significant Difference (LSD) test at a 5% significance level also showed that the relationship between each treatment had a significant value of 0.000 (P < 0.05). The average absolute weight of the fish for Treatment 1 was 12.99 grams, for Treatment 2 was 15.03 grams, and for Treatment 3 was 17.03 grams. The highest growth in the absolute weight of dumbo catfish fry occurred in Treatment 3 (feeding four times a day).

Stunting is one of the chronic nutritional problems that remains a major challenge in health development in Indonesia. This condition not only affects children’s physical growth but also influences cognitive development, productivity, and the quality of human resources in the future. The government has developed various policies to accelerate the reduction of stunting through specific and sensitive intervention approaches implemented in an integrated manner across sectors. Semarang, as one of the urban areas in Indonesia, has also implemented these policies through various health, nutrition, sanitation, and community empowerment programs. This study aims to analyze the policies of specific and sensitive interventions in addressing stunting in Semarang and to identify factors influencing the effectiveness of their implementation. This research uses a qualitative approach with a policy study method through document analysis, observation, and interviews with relevant stakeholders such as the health office, community health centers, and other local government agencies. Data analysis was conducted descriptively by examining program integration, inter-agency coordination, and community participation in policy implementation. The results show that the implementation of specific and sensitive intervention policies in Semarang has been carried out through various programs such as maternal and child nutrition services, improved access to sanitation, health education, and family empowerment. However, several challenges remain, including suboptimal cross-sector coordination, limited resources, and varying levels of public understanding regarding stunting prevention. Therefore, strengthening policy governance, improving synergy among institutions, and enhancing community participation are necessary to ensure that efforts to accelerate stunting reduction can be implemented more effectively and sustainably.

Adolescence is a period of change or transition from childhood to adulthood, encompassing biological, psychological, and social changes. Adolescent girls experience menstruation every month, which puts them at risk of anemia, compounded by poor dietary habits and the failure to consume iron tablets. Rapid adolescent growth is linked to nutritional fulfillment or adolescent consumption of nutrients, one of which is iron consumption. Insufficient iron consumption can lead to anemia in adolescents. Strategies to address anemia in adolescent girls include improving dietary intake and providing iron tablet supplementation. Changing dietary patterns is an important long-term strategy, but cannot be expected to be successful quickly. Anemia is a global health problem, especially in developing countries, where an estimated 30% of the world's population suffers from anemia. Adolescent girls are ten times more likely to suffer from anemia than boys. Efforts to prevent anemia in adolescents through iron tablet supplementation are a strategic, specific intervention to prepare healthy mothers-to-be. The aim was to determine the effect of iron (Fe) tablet administration on increasing Hb levels in adolescent girls with mild anemia. This study was quantitative, with an experimental design. The population in this study were 55 young women at the Ibu Health Center in West Halmahera Regency. A purposive sample of 30 samples was taken. Data collection in this study was carried out by examining Hb levels before and after administering iron tablets 4 times in a row for 4 weeks. The results of the study were that there was no significant difference between Hb levels before and after administering iron tablets in young women at the Ibu Health Center in West Halmahera Regency. The average Hb level before administering iron tablets was 11.5 g/dL, and after administering iron tablets was 12 g/dL. The results of the paired t-test showed a difference before and after administering iron tablets (p value = 0.001), so the test has an effect on administering iron tablets (Fe) on increasing Hb levels in young women with mild anemia in the Ibu Health Center in West Halmahera Regency.

Vegetables are an important horticultural commodity in fulfilling community nutritional needs; however, their consumption level in Indonesia remains relatively low, necessitating efforts to increase production. Spinach (Amaranthus sp.) is a promising vegetable due to its short growth cycle, ease of cultivation, and high nutritional value. Limited agricultural land, particularly in urban areas, poses a major constraint to conventional cultivation, thereby encouraging the adoption of alternative technologies such as hydroponics. The hydroponic system, especially the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), offers efficient use of land and water while enabling better control of plant growth. This review aims to identify hydroponic cultivation techniques for spinach in greenhouse conditions and to analyze factors influencing its success, including nutrient concentration, growing media, pH, temperature, and light intensity. The findings indicate that optimal nutrient concentration ranges from 410–900 ppm, supported by proper environmental and pH management to enhance vegetative growth. The implementation of the NFT system improves production efficiency, resulting in more uniform, cleaner, and higher-quality yields. Nevertheless, challenges remain, including nutrient management, environmental fluctuations, and pest and disease risks. Therefore, proper and sustainable system management is essential to ensure successful hydroponic spinach cultivation.

Healthy food and beverage consumption patterns, as well as family lifestyles, significantly impact toddler health, particularly those related to stunting. The objective of this activity was to provide knowledge on processing high-protein food products from animal products. The activity was conducted through counseling and practical training with mothers of children with stunting and pregnant women at risk of stunting. This activity was conducted in collaboration with BRIN (National Research and Innovation Agency), which is an implementation of the MOU between Fatipa Unisri and BRIN. The results showed that the mothers enjoyed this activity, resulting in their active involvement in the community service process. This program can benefit participants by providing knowledge and skills in processing high-protein foods from animal sources. This activity also aims to raise mothers' awareness of the importance of a balanced, nutritious diet in preventing stunting in children. In addition, participants were given training on how to select the right food ingredients and processing techniques that can maintain the nutritional content of animal products. This program is expected to be continued and discussed with other communities to create a healthy and stunting-free generation.

Gerakan Tutup Mulut (GTM), or “Refusal to Eat,” is a common nutritional problem among toddlers and contributes to reduced nutrient intake and an increased risk of malnutrition. Preliminary observations at Posyandu Aster 11 Way Kandis, Bandar Lampung, indicated that mothers had low levels of knowledge regarding the causes of GTM and limited exposure to responsive feeding education. This community service activity aimed to improve mothers’ understanding of the factors contributing to GTM and to introduce pisang barongko as an innovative, nutritious snack option to help prevent GTM. The methods utilized included educational sessions through leaflets, presentations, video demonstrations, and pretest–posttest evaluation using the Wilcoxon test. The activity involved 25 participants and resulted in an improvement in knowledge scores from an average of 66 to 94.8, demonstrating a significant increase of 28.80 (p < 0.05). High participant enthusiasm, effective material delivery, and the availability of educational outputs such as videos and leaflets supported the success of the program. These findings highlight the importance of nutrition education based on local food resources as a practical and sustainable strategy to prevent GTM in children.