An Analysis of Adolescents’ Knowledge Level on Balanced Nutrition at SDI Azzahra Kecamatan Beji Kabupaten Pasuruan

Abstract

Balanced nutrition is the daily arrangement of food in types and amounts that are appropriate to individual needs. Balanced nutrition is the right approach that can be practiced by adolescents to meet the increased demand for nutrients and to achieve optimal nutritional status and health. A common problem among adolescents today is micronutrient deficiency, often referred to as anemia. A person’s level of knowledge influences their attitudes and behaviors in food selection, which in turn affects their nutritional status. Adolescents, as the nation’s future generation, play an important role in the country’s progress by becoming a healthy generation. The purpose of this study is to examine the level of knowledge about balanced nutrition and the principles that must be considered in order to maintain adolescent health at SDI Azzahra, Beji District. This research is a descriptive correlational study with a cross-sectional approach, conducted by administering a pre-test, delivering educational material, and a post-test. The sample consisted of 40 participants, with a gender distribution of 55% male and 45% female, aged 10–12 years. The results showed that adolescents’ knowledge of balanced nutrition for the body falls into the good category. This was evidenced by an improvement in responses between the pre-test and post-test. Knowledge levels increased from 78.5% to 98.5%.