Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): JN - May
Articles
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Literature Study on the Impact of Micronutrient Deficiencies on Early Childhood Development
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.59
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| Download: 122
Early childhood is a golden period in human life that greatly determines the quality of long-term growth and development. One important factor that supports the optimization of this phase is the fulfillment of micronutrient needs such as iron, iodine, zinc, and vitamin A. This study aims to examine in depth the impact of micronutrient deficiencies on early childhood development through a literature study method with a qualitative approach. The results of the literature search indicate that micronutrient deficiencies have a serious impact on cognitive development, physical growth, social-emotional abilities, and children's immune systems. Iron deficiency anemia, iodine deficiency, zinc deficiency, and lack of vitamin A have been shown to contribute to decreased IQ, motor delays, and increased risk of infectious diseases and child mortality. These findings emphasize that the problem of micronutrient deficiencies is a multidimensional issue that requires cross-sector interventions based on scientific evidence. These interventions include family education, fortification programs, and community empowerment in providing nutritious food. Thus, the fulfillment of micronutrients from an early age is a strategic step in developing superior, healthy, and productive human resources in the future
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.5989 views122 downloads
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Correlation of Animal and Vegetable Protein Intake with the Risk of Stunting at an Early Age
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.62
| Views: 86
| Download: 164
Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem that has a long-term impact on the quality of human resources. Although the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia shows a downward trend, the figure still exceeds the WHO threshold. One important determinant of stunting is the adequacy and quality of protein intake in early childhood. This study aims to explore parents' understanding of animal and vegetable protein consumption and its relationship to the risk of stunting. A qualitative approach with a phenomenological method was used to capture the subjective experiences of parents with children aged 0–5 years in areas at high risk of stunting. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using the Colaizzi thematic technique. The results showed that parents' understanding of the importance of protein quality, especially from animal sources, is still low. Economic factors, cultural perceptions, and low nutritional literacy are the main obstacles in providing balanced nutritious food for children. Vegetable protein tends to be the main choice because it is more affordable, although biologically less optimal. This study emphasizes the need for contextual and community-based nutritional interventions, as well as multi-sector policy support to improve community access and understanding of the importance of a combination of animal and vegetable protein in preventing stuntings
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.6286 views164 downloads
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Literature Review: The Role of Balanced Nutrition in Improving Body Immunity During the Pandemic
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.60
| Views: 110
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The COVID-19 pandemic has raised global awareness of the importance of a strong immune system as the body's primary defense against infection. One of the key factors that influences immunity is a balanced nutritious diet. This study uses a qualitative approach with a literature study method to analyze the role of balanced nutrition in improving immunity during the pandemic. The results of the study show that macronutrients such as protein and micronutrients such as vitamins A, C, D, E, and minerals such as zinc and selenium have a significant contribution to supporting the immune system. Deficiency of any one of these nutrients has been shown to weaken the immune response and increase the risk of infection. On the other hand, many people still do not understand the principles of balanced nutrition as a whole, resulting in erroneous consumption practices, such as relying on supplements without paying attention to holistic diets. In addition, disinformation during the pandemic has exacerbated the gap in public nutritional knowledge. Therefore, education based on scientific evidence is very important to build a correct understanding of the role of nutrition in maintaining immunity. The results of this study are expected to be a reference in formulating strategies to improve public health through a sustainable nutritional approach
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.60110 views119 downloads
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Digital Nutrition Revolution: The Role of Mobile Apps in Improving Healthy Diet Compliance
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.63
| Views: 172
| Download: 185
The level of compliance with healthy eating patterns in Indonesia is still low even though various campaigns have been carried out, such as the Healthy Living Community Movement (GERMAS). Low nutritional literacy, lack of motivation, and social and cultural influences are the main factors that hinder changes in people's consumption behavior. In this context, mobile applications emerge as a potential solution with interactive features such as food tracking, notifications, and visual education that are personalized and easily accessible. Previous studies have shown that approaches based on behavior change theories, such as Self-Determination Theory and Theory of Planned Behavior, increase the effectiveness of digital interventions in forming healthy eating habits. This study uses a literature review method with a qualitative approach to examine the effectiveness of mobile applications in increasing compliance with healthy eating patterns. Data sources were obtained from national and international journals in the last ten years (2015–2025), which were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. The results of the study show that the success of the application depends not only on technological features, but also on user-need-based interface design, integration of behavioral theories, and social and professional support. Therefore, digital nutrition applications need to be developed in a multidisciplinary manner to create an inclusive and sustainable impact in community nutrition interventions
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.63172 views185 downloads
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Fermented Foods as a Modern Nutrition Trend: Health Benefits and Implications for a Healthy Diet
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.61
| Views: 274
| Download: 294
In the last decade, fermented foods have become an important part of modern nutrition trends that emphasize gut health, immune system, and mental balance. Increasing public awareness of healthy lifestyles, coupled with strong media narratives, have driven the popularity of products such as kimchi, kefir, and miso. Fermentation not only increases nutritional value, but also produces probiotics that play a role in maintaining gut microbiota. Research has shown a significant association between fermented food consumption and a reduced risk of chronic diseases, digestive disorders, and mild mental disorders through the gut-brain axis mechanism. However, these benefits are highly dependent on the type and viability of the microorganisms contained, as well as the consistency of consumption. The lack of adequate regulation and education makes consumers vulnerable to commercial claims that are not based on scientific evidence. This study uses a qualitative approach through a literature review to synthesize empirical findings on the benefits and challenges of implementing fermented foods in a healthy diet. The results demonstrate the need for an evidence-based nutrition approach, accompanied by public policies that support the integration of fermented foods in a contextual and sustainable manner. Collaboration between researchers, governments, and communities is needed so that the potential of fermented foods can be optimized in supporting public health and sustainable food systems
https://doi.org/10.62872/jn.v2i1.61274 views294 downloads
