Children in the age group 6-9 years are children who have enrolled in school and have a lot of activities to do outside the home. So, the influence of friends, the temptation of snacks, and environmental influences can increase the risk of exposure to the source of the disease.
In addition, some children aged 6-9 years have also started a period of rapid prepubescent growth, which starts to increase the need for nutrients. Therefore, more attention should be paid to providing a balanced diet for children in this group.
The following is a statement of balanced nutrition for children aged 6-9 years, given by the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia through the Ordinance of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia Number 41 of 2014 on Guidelines for Balanced Diet:
- Get used to eating 3 times a day with the family
The nutritional needs of children aged 6-9 years are met with the main meals 3 times a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). However, the results of the survey show that about 40% of school children do not eat breakfast.
As a result, the amount of energy required to learn is reduced and the learning performance achieved is not optimal. Breakfast is very important to raise blood sugar as an energy source used as a source of brain energy.
- Get used to eating fish and other protein sources
Fish is a source of animal protein, while tempeh and tofu are sources of vegetable protein. Protein is a nutrient that helps grow, maintain and replace damaged cells.
Children in the age group of 6-9 years need protein as they go through a period of rapid pre-pubertal growth. Consumption of fish, eggs, and milk for this age group is also very helpful for growth and development and improves memory and cognition at school.
- Get used to bringing food and water from home
If school hours last until noon, prepare lunch for the children to take to school. Good school lunches must meet the requirements in terms of quantity and variety of food.
By bringing lunch from home, children do not have to eat snacks of which the quality cannot be guaranteed. Children also need enough water to stay healthy and prevent dehydration.
- Make it a habit to brush your teeth at least twice a day
Teach children to get into the habit of brushing their teeth at least twice a day, after breakfast, and before going to bed. The rest of the food left between the teeth is processed by bacteria and produces metabolites in the form of acids that can cause tooth loss.
- Limit the consumption of fast food, snacks, and snacks that are sweet, salty, and fatty
Consuming fast food and snacks has now become a habit, especially in urban communities. Most fast food is food with a lot of sugar, salt, and fat, which is not good for health.
Therefore, consuming fast food and snacks should be strictly limited. Sweet, salty, and fatty foods are associated with chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Guiding children in selecting and providing food to support their growth and development. Children should also understand healthy snacks to reduce the risk of disease exposure from snacks purchased near the school.
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