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A balanced diet is a daily dietary pattern that contains nutrients in types and amounts appropriate to the body's needs. Knowledge of balanced nutrition and healthy eating habits is an important factor in preventing nutritional problems among adolescents. A lack of understanding regarding appropriate food choices can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors. Therefore, nutrition education is needed to improve students’ knowledge and awareness of the importance of implementing a balanced diet in daily life. This counseling activity aimed to increase students’ knowledge regarding balanced dietary patterns. The activity was conducted on June 4, 2025, at State Junior High School 5 Kendari and involved 30 seventh-grade students as respondents. The counseling methods included lectures using PowerPoint media, an ice-breaking session in the form of the WHO six-step handwashing simulation, question-and-answer sessions, and interactive quizzes. Evaluation was carried out using pre-tests and post-tests to measure students’ knowledge levels before and after the counseling activity. The results showed an increase in the mean knowledge score from 68.40 in the pre-test to 89.67 in the post-test. The paired t-test analysis showed a Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.000 (p < 0.05), indicating a significant difference between pre-test and post-test results. In addition, students gave positive responses to the counseling activity, stating that the material was interesting, easy to understand, and enjoyable. These findings indicate that balanced diet counseling was effective in improving students’ knowledge regarding the implementation of healthy eating habits in daily life.

Adolescents are considered a vulnerable group to nutritional problems because they experience rapid physical growth accompanied by lifestyle changes and unhealthy eating habits. The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among teenagers has become a major public health concern that requires serious attention. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between peer influence, the frequency of eating out, and fast-food consumption habits with the incidence of overweight among students at SMAN 1 Surabaya. The research applied a quantitative approach using an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional method. A total of 81 students participated in the study and were selected through proportional random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, SQ-FFQ forms, and anthropometric measurements, then analyzed using the Chi-Square statistical test. The findings revealed significant associations between peer influence, eating out frequency, and fast-food consumption habits with the occurrence of overweight among adolescents. Students who more frequently consumed meals outside the home and regularly ate fast food showed a greater tendency to experience overweight and obesity. These results indicate that social environments and modern dietary patterns contribute to the increasing prevalence of overweight among adolescents. Therefore, nutrition education and healthy lifestyle promotion should be strengthened through the involvement of schools, families, and peer groups.

This study examines changes in nutritional knowledge, dietary patterns, nutrient intake, and food acculturation among first-year migrant and non-migrant students. A 5 months prospective cohort design was employed involving 32 students from the Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga. Students were randomly divided equally into migrant and non-migrant groups. Data were collected using questionnaires, food frequency questionnaires, 3×24-hour food recall, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicated no significant differences or changes in nutritional knowledge between groups throughout the observation period (p > 0.05). However, dietary patterns varied, with migrant students showing increased consumption of practical and fast foods. Nutrient intake, particularly energy and protein, was initially lower among migrant students but improved significantly over time, reflecting adaptation to a new environment. Food acculturation was evident among migrant students, with a significant increase in scores during the study period (p = 0.007), indicating gradual adjustment to local eating habits. These results highlight the influence of environmental adaptation on students’ dietary behavior and emphasize the need for targeted nutrition interventions to promote healthy eating habits during the early university transition.

The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is one of the government’s strategic policies aimed at improving students’ nutritional status and learning quality, particularly at the junior high school level. Early adolescence, aged 13–15 years, is a critical growth period that requires optimal nutritional intake, while national surveys still indicate deficiencies in energy and protein intake among this age group. This study aims to describe the implementation of the MBG Program and the level of student satisfaction as direct beneficiaries. The research employed a quantitative descriptive design conducted over one month in the working area of SPPG Yayasan Bina Bangsa Semarang, Gunungpati, Semarang City. The sample consisted of 101 junior high school students selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering program implementation and student satisfaction aspects. The findings revealed that most students assessed the program implementation as high to very high. Student satisfaction was also categorized as high, particularly regarding food quality, portion adequacy, cleanliness, safety, and service. The MBG Program was considered effective in improving learning concentration, reducing unhealthy snacking habits, and encouraging healthy eating patterns. This study concludes that the MBG Program has been implemented effectively and is relevant in supporting sustainable improvements in students’ nutritional status and educational quality.

The Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) is one of the government’s strategic policies aimed at improving students’ nutritional status and learning quality, particularly at the junior high school level. Early adolescence, aged 13–15 years, is a critical growth period that requires optimal nutritional intake, while national surveys still indicate deficiencies in energy and protein intake among this age group. This study aims to describe the implementation of the MBG Program and the level of student satisfaction as direct beneficiaries. The research employed a quantitative descriptive design conducted over one month in the working area of SPPG Yayasan Bina Bangsa Semarang, Gunungpati, Semarang City. The sample consisted of 101 junior high school students selected using purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering program implementation and student satisfaction aspects. The findings revealed that most students assessed the program implementation as high to very high. Student satisfaction was also categorized as high, particularly regarding food quality, portion adequacy, cleanliness, safety, and service. The MBG Program was considered effective in improving learning concentration, reducing unhealthy snacking habits, and encouraging healthy eating patterns. This study concludes that the MBG Program has been implemented effectively and is relevant in supporting sustainable improvements in students’ nutritional status and educational quality.

. Malnutrition rates among children remain quite high, according to 2024 national statistics, which indicate that good eating habits in accordance with balanced nutritional needs are not yet ideal. Children's eating habits, dietary diversity, and parental understanding all impact their nutritional status. To promote optimal growth and development in children, it is crucial to monitor and establish appropriate eating habits from an early age. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between eating habits and nutritional status of preschool-aged children. This study used a cross-sectional analytical design and quantitative methodology. Purposeful sampling was used to select a sample of 33 children from the 50 children in the study population. The study was conducted between September 22 and October 1, 2025. A Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to examine dietary patterns, while nutritional status was measured through weighing using a digital scale. Based on the findings, 22 children (66.7%) had a healthy diet, while 11 children (33.3%) had a poor diet. The Chi-Square statistical test showed a p value of 0.008 (p < 0.05), indicating a relationship between eating habits and nutritional status in preschool children at Taman Annisa Miruek Kindergarten, Aceh Besar Regency. According to balanced nutrition guidelines, parents should regularly assess their children's growth and focus more on the diversity and balance of their food intake. To improve children's nutritional status as much as possible, schools are required to collaborate with health workers to educate parents and children about nutrition.

Menstrual cycle irregularities are a prevalent reproductive health issue among adolescent girls, often linked to dietary imbalances that contribute to hormonal disruption and nutrient deficiencies. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between dietary patterns and menstrual cycles among female students at Ambassador High School. A cross-sectional design was employed with stratified random sampling, involving 30 female students. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering dietary patterns (frequency, food types, nutritional intake, and eating habits) and menstrual cycle characteristics (regularity, duration, and complaints). The Chi-Square test was used to assess associations between variables at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results indicated that 56.7% of respondents had unbalanced diets characterized by high fast-food consumption, low fruit and vegetable intake, and frequent meal skipping. Menstrual cycle irregularities were reported in 60% of respondents. Statistical analysis revealed a Chi-Square value of 4.420 with a p-value of 0.035, confirming a significant relationship between diet and menstrual cycle. Cross-tabulation showed that 76.5% of students with unbalanced diets experienced irregular cycles compared to 38.5% with balanced diets. These findings highlight the importance of nutrition education and healthy food provision in schools to support adolescent reproductive health.

Gastric health problems such as gastritis and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) remain common, particularly among children and adolescents, due to irregular eating patterns, excessive consumption of spicy and acidic foods, and a lack of understanding of healthy lifestyles and proper nutrition. The partner of this Community Service Program (PKM) was LKSA Santa Anna Orphanage in Bojonegoro, where limited knowledge regarding gastric health, differences between gastritis and GERD, and preventive efforts was identified among the residents. This PKM activity aimed to increase partners’ knowledge and awareness of gastric health maintenance through the application of healthy eating patterns, balanced nutrition, and appropriate lifestyle practices. The program included educational sessions, interactive discussions, and simple demonstrations to enhance participants’ understanding and engagement. Previous studies indicate that health education and regular eating habits are effective in preventing gastric disorders; therefore, this socialization activity is expected to encourage positive and sustainable healthy behavioral changes, improve daily dietary habits, and support long-term gastric health and overall well-being.

This study aims to describe dietary patterns, food consumption habits, hygiene awareness, and environmental and social factors related to digestive disorders in junior high school students. This study used a descriptive approach with a closed-ended interview method (Yes/No answers) with Thirty-five  junior high school students using 15 questions. The results showed that some students did not have consistent breakfast habits, had a high tendency to consume fried foods and sugary drinks, and demonstrated low awareness of food safety and hygiene habits such as washing hands before eating. In addition, the school environment, peer influence, and psychological well-being influence students’ eating patterns. These factors contribute to digestive problems in some students. Therefore, schools must actively participate in maintaining a clean environment, providing students with healthy food options, and providing ongoing nutritional instruction on digestive health.

Gastritis is a common gastrointestinal disorder that is influenced by both behavioral and psychological factors, including dietary patterns and stress. This study aimed to examine the association between dietary patterns and stress levels among patients with gastritis at a primary healthcare center in West Halmahera Regency. A quantitative analytical study with a cross-sectional design was conducted in November 2025. A total of 60 gastritis patients were recruited using a total sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires to assess dietary patterns and stress levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize respondents’ characteristics, while the Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was applied to analyze the association between variables. The results showed that most respondents had unhealthy dietary patterns and experienced high stress levels. Dietary pattern was significantly associated with stress level (p = 0.038), whereas demographic characteristics were not significantly related to stress level. Patients with unhealthy dietary patterns were more likely to experience high stress. In conclusion, dietary pattern is significantly associated with stress levels among gastritis patients. These findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy eating behaviors as part of stress management strategies in primary health care settings.

In general, school students buy snacks in the school canteen or street vendors (PKL) around the school. 2 The types of food sold are varied, ranging from healthy snacks to unhealthy snacks so that they can attract students to consume school snacks. Healthy snacks are foods that have sufficient and balanced nutrition and do not contain (contaminated) elements that can harm or damage health. This community service activity aims to educate healthy eating patterns to prevent food and drinks containing microbial contamination at Mariana Catholic High School, Medan. The method used is an educational approach through health counseling, interactive discussions, and demonstrations of hygienic practices, especially correct handwashing techniques and the importance of maintaining personal hygiene and the school environment. This activity was attended by 40 students as participants. The evaluation of the activity focused on one main indicator, namely student participation in hygienic behavior practices as a form of direct application of the material that has been given. The results of the activity showed that all participants (100%) followed the demonstrated hygienic practices, which indicates a very high level of participation and enthusiasm. These findings indicate that educational methods accompanied by hands-on practice are effective in increasing understanding and encouraging the adoption of clean and healthy living behaviors. Community service activities at Mariana Catholic High School in Medan have been shown to increase students' knowledge about the dangers of microbial contamination and the development of hygienic behaviors in daily life. Structured and ongoing education is an effective preventive measure to create a healthy and clean school environment.

This study aims to analyze the influence of parental roles on fulfilling the nutritional needs of children aged 3–4 years at the Asmaul Husna Daycare (TPA) in Gorontalo. The study used a quantitative design with a cross-sectional approach and involved 60 parents as respondents. The role of parents was measured through their active involvement as educators, motivators, and facilitators in fulfilling children's nutritional needs. The results showed that 80% of children whose parents played an active role had good nutritional status based on normal weight for age and height for age indicators. Conversely, in the group of less active parents, only 36% of children achieved good nutritional status. The Chi-square test showed a significant relationship between parental roles and children's nutritional status (p < 0.05). The table data shows a clear disparity, with 32 well-nourished children coming from the active role group, while 14 children with poor nutritional status came from the passive role group. These findings emphasize the importance of monitoring dietary patterns, providing nutritious supplies, and collaboration between parents and the TPA in reducing the risk of malnutrition and stunting. Furthermore, parental involvement contributes to improved immunity, cognitive development, and the formation of long-term healthy eating habits. This study recommends holding nutrition workshops for parents as part of a sustainable TPA program.

Childhood obesity has become an increasingly significant health and education problem in various countries, including Indonesia, influenced by unhealthy eating patterns, lifestyle changes, and low nutritional literacy within families. This article aims to examine the lack of balanced nutrition in obese early childhood from the perspective of family education as part of non-formal education. The research method used is a literature review by reviewing national and international literature related to nutrition, child growth and development, and the increasing trend of obesity. The results show that obesity has physical, cognitive, psychological, and social impacts that can hinder a child's holistic development. Parents play a crucial role in establishing healthy eating habits, monitoring food consumption, and fostering an active lifestyle. Improving nutritional literacy within families, synergizing with early childhood education institutions, and supporting public health policies are considered crucial to preventing the long-term risk of obesity. Therefore, family education about balanced nutrition is a crucial strategy in supporting optimal growth and development and creating a healthy and competitive generation of early childhood children.

The increasing snack consumption trend in Indonesia, along with the availability of processed snacks that are high in sugar, fat, and sodium but low in fiber, poses a significant challenge to digestive health. More than 40% of the global population experiences digestive disorders, often related to unhealthy eating patterns and low fiber intake. In response to this issue, an innovative healthy snack called TaroStik, made from taro vines (Colocasia esculenta) rich in fiber and nutrients, has been developed. This product comes in two forms, sticks and chips, with three flavor variants (salty, sweet, and spicy), offering a healthy snacking experience without sacrificing taste. Training on utilizing taro vines to create TaroStik was conducted in Banjarbaru, involving prospective entrepreneurs with a combined approach of theory, hands-on practice, and group discussions. Participants were trained from material selection, processing (peeling, soaking, steaming, frying), packaging, to social media marketing simulation. As a result, most participants were able to independently produce TaroStik, with some expressing intentions to continue production at a home scale. TaroStik not only provides a digestive health solution through natural snacks free of preservatives but also brings positive impacts in three areas: economy (creating business opportunities based on local ingredients), environment (reducing agricultural waste), and nutrition (increasing healthy food consumption). This innovation embodies the principles of green economy and sustainable entrepreneurship, opening new business opportunities and improving community welfare.

The increasing snack consumption trend in Indonesia, along with the availability of processed snacks that are high in sugar, fat, and sodium but low in fiber, poses a significant challenge to digestive health. More than 40% of the global population experiences digestive disorders, often related to unhealthy eating patterns and low fiber intake. In response to this issue, an innovative healthy snack called TaroStik, made from taro vines (Colocasia esculenta) rich in fiber and nutrients, has been developed. This product comes in two forms, sticks and chips, with three flavor variants (salty, sweet, and spicy), offering a healthy snacking experience without sacrificing taste. Training on utilizing taro vines to create TaroStik was conducted in Banjarbaru, involving prospective entrepreneurs with a combined approach of theory, hands-on practice, and group discussions. Participants were trained from material selection, processing (peeling, soaking, steaming, frying), packaging, to social media marketing simulation. As a result, most participants were able to independently produce TaroStik, with some expressing intentions to continue production at a home scale. TaroStik not only provides a digestive health solution through natural snacks free of preservatives but also brings positive impacts in three areas: economy (creating business opportunities based on local ingredients), environment (reducing agricultural waste), and nutrition (increasing healthy food consumption). This innovation embodies the principles of green economy and sustainable entrepreneurship, opening new business opportunities and improving community welfare.

Nutritional problems among preschool children remain a global and national concern. WHO (2017) reported that approximately 54% of child mortality under five is caused by malnutrition, while in Indonesia the prevalence of picky eaters reaches 20%, with West Java recording as high as 41.9%. The 2018 Basic Health Research (Riskesdas) data showed that the national stunting rate was still high at 30.8%, far from the national target of 19% in 2024. This study aimed to examine the relationship between picky eating behavior and physical activity with the nutritional status of preschool children at PAUD Kiddy Kid Center Banda Aceh. This was an analytical study with a cross-sectional design. The population included all 42 preschool children at the institution, selected through total sampling. Data analysis was carried out using univariate and bivariate (Chi-Square test) analyses. The results showed a significant relationship between picky eating behavior and nutritional status (p = 0.001), as well as between physical activity and nutritional status (p = 0.001). Conclusion: There is a significant association between picky eating behavior, physical activity, and the nutritional status of preschool children. It is recommended that schools and parents collaborate in promoting healthy eating patterns and encouraging physical activity from an early age.

Hypertension is a non-communicable disease that can be life-threatening, especially in the elderly. According to the WHO, more than 15 million people aged 30–69 years die each year from non-communicable diseases. This study aims to analyze factors influencing the incidence of hypertension in the elderly, including smoking, stress levels, culture, diet, exercise, and coffee drinking habits. This research method used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The population was 738 elderly people, with a sample size of 259 elderly people, and random sampling was used. Data analysis was performed using univariate, bivariate using the Chi-Square test, and multivariate using the Pearson correlation test. The results of this study such as Smoking with hypertension: There is a significant influence (p = 0.002), stress level There is a significant influence (p = 0.002), Culture There is a significant influence (p = 0.010), Eating patterns with hypertension are significant (p = 0.049), Exercise There is a significant influence (p = 0.003), drinking coffee with a significant influence (p = 0.048). Multivariate analysis shows that culture (p = 0.003; r = 0.177) and coffee drinking habits (p = 0.022; r = 0.139) are the most influential factors on elderly hypertension, while other factors are not significant. This study shows that smoking, stress levels, culture, diet, exercise, and coffee consumption are significantly associated with hypertension in the elderly. However, a multivariate analysis revealed that cultural factors and coffee drinking habits were the most dominant factors influencing hypertension, while other factors had no significant effect after being controlled for. Therefore, efforts to prevent and control hypertension in the elderly need to focus on changing cultural practices that are less conducive to health and regulating coffee consumption, while still considering the implementation of a healthy lifestyle overall.

Obesity among college students is a public health issue that is gaining increasing attention because it is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and heart disease, and can reduce quality of life and academic productivity. College students, as a group of early adults, are in a transition phase towards independence and are therefore vulnerable to lifestyle changes, including unhealthy eating patterns, fast food consumption, low physical activity due to busy studies, irregular sleep habits, and high academic stress. This study aims to determine the risk factors associated with obesity among students at the Islamic University of Ogan Komering Ilir in 2025. This study used a cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach. A sample of 95 students was selected using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and body mass index (BMI) measurement to determine respondents' nutritional status. Independent variables included diet, physical activity, sleep quality, stress levels, and a family history of obesity. The results showed a prevalence of obesity of 17.9%. Bivariate analysis found a significant association between obesity and unhealthy diet (p=0.002), low physical activity (p=0.000), poor sleep quality (p=0.000), and high stress levels (p=0.001). Meanwhile, a family history of obesity showed a tendency to have an effect but was not statistically significant. These findings indicate that obesity in college students is largely influenced by modifiable lifestyle factors. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of health promotion interventions on campus, such as balanced nutrition counseling, increased access to sports facilities, stress management, and education on healthy sleep patterns. Promotive and preventive efforts undertaken from a young age are expected to reduce the risk of obesity and chronic disease in the future.

Personal hygiene and nutritional balance are very important for everyone to know, including children during their most critical growth period, to know. This Community Service Lecture (KKN) activity aims to increase the knowledge and awareness of students at Public Elementary School 101848, Kuala Lau Bekeri Village, Kutalimbaru District, regarding the prevention of malnutrition and self hygiene through educational counseling. The method used was a descriptive method with a qualitative approach, implemented through interactive lectures, presentation media, and question and answer sessions. The number of participants were 90 students from grades I to VI. And with the teachers support in maintaining regularity and reinforcing the educational presentation about the counseling material included the definition of nutrition and malnutrition, signs, causes, healthy eating patterns, and clean and healthy living behaviors. The results of the activity showed high enthusiasm from the participants in participating in the counseling and their ability to name examples of healthy foods and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. This counseling successfully increased participants' understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition and healthy living behaviors that play a role in supporting the optimal growth and development of school-age children. The involvement of teachers and schools greatly supported the success of this activity. It is hoped that this counseling can form positive habits in maintaining students' nutrition and health in a sustainable manner.

The pregnancy period is a crucial time for ensuring the health of the mother and fetus through the provision of balanced nutrition. However, nutritional issues such as anemia and chronic energy deficiency (CED) are still commonly found among pregnant women. The use of local nutritious foods, such as moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera), can be a potential solution to support nutritional needs. This community service activity aims to improve the knowledge and skills of pregnant women in preparing healthy menus and balanced eating patterns using moringa leaves. The activity was carried out through interactive lectures, coaching on menu preparation, cooking demonstrations of moringa leaf dishes, and evaluation through pre-tests and post-tests. The participants were pregnant women in the working area of the Wara Selatan Health Center in Palopo City, totaling 25 people. The results showed an increase in participants' nutritional knowledge, with an average pre-test score of 55 rising to 82 in the post-test. Participants were also able to prepare a balanced daily menu based on moringa leaves and produce several processed products, including moringa soup, moringa fritters, and moringa pudding. It can be concluded that the healthy menu coaching activity using local moringa leaves effectively improves the knowledge and skills of pregnant women regarding balanced nutrition. The use of local foods such as moringa leaves has the potential to support the improvement of maternal nutritional status in a simple, economical, and sustainable manner.