Saintika Medika: Jurnal Ilmu Kesehatan dan Kedokteran Keluarga.
Vol. 22 No. 1 (2026): June 2026

Effect of Combined ST36 (Zusanli) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao) Acupoint Stimulation on Appetite in Preschool Children

Dewi Kartika Sari (Universitas Sunan Gresik)
Yuninda Loviana Ersianti (Universitas Sunan Gresik)
Fredlina Rossa Balindra (Universitas Sunan Gresik)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background: Appetite problems in preschool children can negatively affect nutritional intake and growth and remain a public health concern. Conventional interventions are often insufficient, highlighting the need for alternative approaches. Acupressure is considered a safe, practical, and potentially effective method to improve appetite. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of acupressure at ST36 (Zusanli) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao) on appetite in preschool children. Methods: This quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest control group design involved 40 preschool children. The intervention group received daily acupressure for two weeks, while the control group received education. Appetite was measured using the Early Child Appetite and Satiety Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test and Mann–Whitney U test with a significance level of α ≤ 0.05. Results: Both groups showed significant improvements (p < 0.001), with greater improvement observed in the intervention group. The between-group analysis also showed a significant difference (p = 0.037), indicating that acupressure had a stronger effect compared to education alone. Conclusion: Acupressure at ST36 and SP6 is effective in improving appetite in preschool children and can be considered a feasible non-pharmacological intervention.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

sainmed

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Journal of Saintika Medika is a peer-reviewed and open access journal that focuses on promoting medical sciences generated from basic sciences, clinical, and community or public health research to integrate researches in all aspects of human health. This journal publishes original articles, reviews, ...