Family characteristic, quality of food consumption related with nutritional status under five children

Introduction: Nutritional status in under five children is an important factor in the growth of children. Children's nutritional status is related to family characteristics and food intake, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Understanding the relationship between family characteristics (mother’s education, knowledge and family income) and the quality of food consumption for children is an important factor in supporting optimal child growth. This study aims to determine the relationship between family characteristics (mother’s education, knowledge and family income) and the quality of food consumption with the nutritional status of children under five. Method: The research design used was a cross sectional approach, this study involved 148 children aged 2-5 years, the child's data was asked to the guardian in this case the subject's mother. Characteristics data was obtained by using a questionnaire, while data on the quality of food consumption was assessed using the Balanced Nutrition Index (IGS). Data analysis in this study used Spearman's Rank to test the relationship. Result: The results of data analysis showed that there was a relationship between nutritional status (height of age) and quality of food consumption (p=0,000 ‘ r=0,334) and mother’s education (p=0,000 ; r=0,335), while total family income and mother’s nutrition knowledge were not related to nutritional status. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between mother’s education and quality of food consumption with nutritional status (height of age) of under five children.