<![CDATA[Background: Although Kampung Gedung Karya Jitu has abundant fisheries and aquatic resources, field data indicate persistent growth problems, particularly stunting, as well as inadequate daily protein intake among toddlers. Purpose: To determine the association between protein intake and the frequency of aquatic food consumption and nutritional status among toddlers aged 7–24 months in Kampung Gedung Karya Jitu. Method: This quantitative study employed an analytic observational design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 66 toddlers were selected using total sampling. Data were collected using a 24-hour dietary recall, Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and direct anthropometric measurements. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: Protein intake and aquatic food consumption frequency were significantly associated with height-for-age (HAZ) and stunting status (p=0.000). Protein intake was also significantly associated with weight-for-age (WAZ) (p=0.002). However, no significant association was found between these variables and BMI-for-age (BAZ). Conclusion: Inadequate protein intake and low frequency of aquatic food consumption were associated with impaired linear growth, as reflected by stunting, but were not significantly associated with BMI-for-age. These findings highlight the potential importance of adequate protein intake and locally available aquatic foods in supporting optimal growth among toddlers.]]>
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