"Improvement of the nutritional status of school-age children is crucial in a bid to realize a golden and quality generation," the ministry's Deputy for Coordination of the Quality Improvement of Health and Population Development Agus Suprapto stated when contacted on Wednesday.
Suprapto explained that to improve the nutritional status of school-age children, a policy recommendation agreed by relevant stakeholders is deemed necessary.
"For example, regarding nutritional education in schools and improvement of access to nutritional services to improve the nutritional status of school-age children, both in (terms of) the aspects of knowledge and practice in the school and house environments," he further remarked.
He noted that relevant ministries and institutions should follow up on various policies comprehensively for improving the health and nutritional status of school-age children.
“Apart from that, policies related to improving the nutritional status of school-age children need to be implemented concretely through programs and activities. For example, eating breakfast before school and consuming a balanced nutritious diet," he remarked.
He highlighted the importance of ensuring that school-age children consume a balanced nutritious diet in accordance with their needs.
"Children need to consume foods that are complete with macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, protein, and fat as well as micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals and water," he stated.
In addition, he underscored the need to boost cooperation and collaboration between relevant ministries and institutions to improve the nutritional status and ensure balanced nutritional intake of school-age children.
“Therefore, the nutritional needs of children are expected to be fulfilled to support their optimal physical and cognitive developments,” he stated.
Lastly, he highlighted that efforts to increase the physical activities of school children are needed to tackle obesity and improve health and fitness.
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Translator: Wuryanti Puspitasari, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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