Strengthening Nutrition Resilience Through Local Food-Based Approaches as an Effort to Prevent Stunting in Sangatta Utara

Penguatan Ketahanan Gizi Berbasis Pangan Lokal sebagai Upaya Pencegahan Stunting di Sangatta Utara

Abstract

Stunting is one of the chronic nutritional problems that has become a widespread public health issue in Indonesia. This condition is characterized by a child's height being significantly below the standard for their age, resulting from prolonged nutritional deficiencies. The Generasi Sehat Thematic Community Service Program (KKN) was conducted in the working area of Sangatta Utara Public Health Center as a form of student contribution to public health, particularly in stunting prevention and improving child nutrition. The program consisted of three main activities: stunting prevention education, healthy cooking training, and the development of family nutrition gardens. The educational sessions aimed to increase mothers' knowledge about balanced diets and healthy eating patterns. Cooking training provided practical skills in preparing nutritious meals using local ingredients that appeal to children. The nutrition garden initiative was designed as a sustainable source of vitamin- and mineral-rich vegetables for families. The implementation of these programs showed strong synergy in promoting behavioral change and raising community awareness about the importance of child nutrition. Active community participation, enthusiastic engagement, and support from health professionals were key indicators of the program’s success.