Pengaruh Protein Hewani Dan Nabati Terhadap Tumbuh Kembang Balita Di Puskesmas Kedungwaru

Abstract

The first 1,000 days of life represent a critical "golden window" for a child's growth and development. Adequate protein intake—from both animal and plant sources—is an essential nutritional component that plays a vital role in the formation of body tissues, hormone synthesis, and the cognitive development of toddlers. This study aims to analyze the influence of feeding patterns involving animal and plant-based proteins on the growth and development status of toddlers aged 12–59 months. A mixed-methods approach with a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional design was employed. This design was chosen to provide a comprehensive overview by quantitatively examining the relationship between feeding patterns while qualitatively exploring mothers' perceptions and the barriers they face. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, and in-depth interviews with 20 mothers of toddlers aged 12–59 months within the working area of ​​the Kedungwaru Community Health Center (Puskesmas), Tulungagung Regency. Quantitative results indicate that 65% of mothers provide animal-based protein regularly (at least once a day), while 80% of respondents provide plant-based protein daily. Toddlers who receive regular animal-based protein intake show a higher prevalence of normal nutritional status (72.3%) compared to those who do not (41.2%). Bivariate analysis using Fisher's Exact test reveals a highly significant association between the frequency of animal-based protein consumption and nutritional status as measured by the height-for-age (HAZ/TB/U) indicator (p=0.002; X²=12.170). However, no statistically significant association was found for the weight-for-age (WAZ/BB/U) indicator (p=0.303; X²=1.831). Qualitatively, in-depth interviews reveal that economic factors and a lack of knowledge regarding menu variety are the primary barriers for mothers. In conclusion, the regular provision of animal-based protein has a significant impact on preventing stunting (as measured by height-for-age) in toddlers. Nutritional education for mothers needs to be enhanced to optimize the fulfillment of protein requirements during the first 1,000 days of life (1000 HPK).