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Stunting is a condition of growth failure in toddlers due to chronic malnutrition characterized by height below the age standard. This study aims to analyze the dietary patterns of stunted toddlers in the Parigi Community Health Center, Muna Regency, in 2025. The study used a qualitative approach with a phenomenological design. Informants consisted of mothers who had stunted toddlers as key informants and Posyandu cadres as supporting informants selected by purposive sampling. Data collection was carried out through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, then analyzed through the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions with triangulation validity tests. The results showed that feeding practices for stunted toddlers were still not in accordance with recommendations. All informants had carried out Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (IMD), but exclusive breastfeeding was not optimal due to the perception of insufficient breast milk. Complementary breastfeeding (MP-ASI) tended to be given before the age of 6 months, influenced by the assumption that babies were hungry when they cried and cultural habits. The frequency of toddler meals was irregular, the type of food was dominated by porridge, and food variety was still limited. Consumption of animal side dishes, vegetables, and fruit was also not routinely provided. In conclusion, the dietary patterns of stunted toddlers in the study area do not meet the principles of balanced nutrition and are still influenced by family knowledge and habits. Therefore, increased education for mothers and families regarding appropriate feeding practices is needed to support optimal toddler growth and development.

Malnutrition and stunting among children under five remain major public health challenges in developing countries, including Indonesia. These conditions are associated with increased morbidity, mortality, impaired cognitive development, and reduced productivity in adulthood. Stunting reflects chronic nutritional deficiencies, while severe malnutrition indicates acute or prolonged inadequate nutrient intake, often exacerbated by infections, poor caregiving practices, and unfavorable socioeconomic conditions. This case report aims to describe the clinical condition, contributing factors, management, and outcomes of a 14-month-old female toddler diagnosed with severe malnutrition and stunting without complications in Blang Dalam Geuteung Village, Nisam Subdistrict, North Aceh Regency. The assessment was conducted using a family medicine approach, incorporating detailed history taking, physical examination, anthropometric measurements, and nutritional status evaluation based on World Health Organization Z-score indicators. Interventions included nutritional rehabilitation through appropriate dietary intake, family education on balanced nutrition and proper feeding practices, routine growth monitoring, and optimization of primary healthcare services. The results showed gradual improvement in the child’s nutritional status, evidenced by weight gain, better appetite, and improved feeding patterns following the intervention. This case highlights the importance of early detection, comprehensive family-centered management, and continuous monitoring in addressing malnutrition and stunting at the primary care level. Strengthening community-based interventions, improving caregiver knowledge, and enhancing collaboration between healthcare providers and families are essential to reduce the burden of malnutrition and support optimal child growth and development.