cover
Contact Name
Agus Hendra Al Rahmad, SKM, MPH
Contact Email
4605.ah@gmail.com
Phone
+6285260047644
Journal Mail Official
jurnal6121@gmail.com
Editorial Address
Jln. Soekarno-Hatta, Kampus Terpadu Poltekkes Kemenkes Aceh, Lampeunerut, Aceh Besar. Kode Pos: 23352 Provinsi Aceh, Indonesia.
Location
Kab. aceh besar,
Aceh
INDONESIA
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal
ISSN : 25273310     EISSN : 25485741     DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.30867
Core Subject : Health, Science,
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal merupakan jurnal gizi dan kesehatan dengan E-ISSN 2548-5741 dan ISSN 2527-3310. Jurnal ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan dalam penyampaian hasil penelitian sebagai media yang dapat digunakan untuk meregistrasi, mendiseminasi, dan mengarsipkan karya peneliti tenaga gizi dan kesehatan di Indonesia, Aceh pada khususnya.
Articles 507 Documents
The impact of a free nutritious meal program on elementary school students' concentration levels Arifin, Syuja' Rafiqi; Tanziha, Ikeu; Ekayanti, Ikeu; Ahmad, Aripin
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2737

Abstract

Nutritional problems among school-aged children negatively affect both physical growth and academic achievement. In Indonesia, approximately 41% of children attend school while hungry, and only 10% habitually consume a nutritionally balanced breakfast. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the “Free Nutritious Meal” (Makan Bergizi Gratis, MBG) program on concentration levels among elementary school students. A quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-test assessments and a control group was applied. The study was conducted in Banda Aceh, with SD Negeri 50 serving as the intervention group and SD Negeri 20 as the control group. A total of 83 students in the intervention group received free nutritious meals, while 83 students comprised the control group. The study was carried out from April to June 2025. Concentration levels were measured using the Grid Concentration Test, a simple psychological tool to assess focus and attention. Data analysis included descriptive statistics to present respondent characteristics and concentration distribution, and Chi-Square tests to compare within-group and between-group changes. Results demonstrated a significant improvement in concentration among students in the intervention group between baseline and endline (p = 0.020), whereas no significant change was observed in the control group (p = 0.328). The MBG program effectively enhanced student concentration. Strengthening program quality and providing nutrition education to families are recommended to support healthy eating habits and maximize the program’s impact on children’s cognitive function.
The association between serum ferritin levels and growth parameters in children with β-thalassemia major Herdata, Heru Noviat; Taufani, Veria; Destiani, Eka; Andid, Rusdi
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2681

Abstract

Beta-thalassemia major requires regular blood transfusions, which can result in iron overload. Excess iron disrupts bone homeostasis by inhibiting osteoblast activity and stimulating osteoclast differentiation via elevated receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis. This may lead to vertebral compression, fractures, and reduced heights. This study aimed to assess the correlation between serum ferritin concentration and linear growth parameters (height and sitting height) in adolescents with beta-thalassemia major. An observational analytical study was conducted at the Thalassemia Center of Dr. Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia, from July to August 2023 using secondary data from medical records. The study included 40 participants (21 females) who received ≥10 blood transfusions. Anthropometric measurements were assessed using WHO Reference 2007. Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation tests. Results, most participants had serum ferritin levels >2000 ng/mL (72,5%), extremely short stature (82,5%), and abnormal sitting height (57,5%). A weak but statistically significant negative correlation was observed between serum ferritin levels and height (r = -0,165; p = 0,030) and sitting height (r = -0,150; p = 0,035). In conclusion, although the correlation is weak, elevated ferritin levels may contribute to impaired linear and spinal growth in adolescents with β-thalassemia major.
Vitamin D and calcium status in children with thalassemia beta major: A cross sectional study in Banda Aceh Fiska, RR. Rima Aulia; Edward, Eka Destianti; Amna, Eka Yunita; Herdata, Heru Noviat; Sovira, Nora; Ismy, Jufitriani
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2486

Abstract

Frequent blood transfusions in children with beta-thalassemia major result in iron overload, leading to hemosiderosis in various body tissues, and impair the function of these organs, disrupting vitamin D metabolism, which contributes to osteoporosis and other morbidities, which are believed to be associated with hypocalcemia, which significantly affects growth. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between vitamin D and calcium status in children with β-thalassemia major at dr. Zainoel Abidin Public Hospital in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Methods: An analytical observational study employed a cross-sectional design involving 40 children aged 2–18 years with a beta-thalassemia major attending the Children's Thalassemia Clinic at dr. Zainoel Abidin Public Hospital in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. from July to November, 2024. Categorical data were analyzed using the Spearman test, with a p-value of <0,05. Results, of the 40 subjects, 55% subjects were male, in 45% of subjects, there was Vitamin D deficiency, 25% was vitamin D insufficiency, hypocalcemia in 77,5% subjects. Among subjects with vitamin D deficiency, 94,4% also had hypocalcemia (r = 0,037, p = 0,017). In conclusion, there was a significant association between vitamin D and calcium status in children with beta-thalassemia major.
The association between stress and high-fat intake with hypertension among pregnant women in Bondowoso Regency Sholihah, Amalina Hilyatu; Noveyani, Adistha Eka; Akbar, Abdul Azis
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2398

Abstract

Hypertension affects approximately 10% of pregnancies globally and remains a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Mothers with hypertension in their first pregnancy are at an elevated risk for preeclampsia in subsequent pregnancies.  This study aimed to analyze the relationship between stress and high-fat intake and the incidence of hypertension in pregnant women. This was an observational study that used a cross-sectional approach from May to June 2024. The study population included pregnant women who were patients of the Maesan Health Center and residing in Bondowoso Regency. The sample selection used Slovin's formula: 73 out of 263 pregnant women. Stress variables were measured using the Revised Prenatal Distress Questionnaire (NuPDQ), a 2 × 24-hour recall questionnaire for fat intake measurements, and blood pressure measurements using a tensimeter. Univariate analysis described each variable, including respondents' stress status and high-fat dietary intake. Moreover, bivariate analysis used chi-square tests to assess the relationship between the independent variables (stress and fat intake) and the dependent variable (hypertension). This study found that there was an association between stress and high-fat intake and the incidence of hypertension, with p-values <0,001 and <0,001, respectively.  We recommend addressing both stress management and dietary habits as crucial in prenatal care programmes.
Impact of chronic monosodium glutamate exposure on female reproductive health in an animal model Fathunikmah, Fathunikmah; Lestari, Siti Mona Amelia; Laila, Ani; Wahyudhi, Zahira Abyan Putri
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2702

Abstract

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used food additive; however, its chronic effects on female reproductive health remain unclear. Previous studies have mainly focused on neurotoxic and metabolic outcomes, leaving a gap in understanding its impact on ovarian function. This study investigated the effects of chronic MSG exposure on ovarian structure and follicular development in female mice. An experimental post-test-only control group design was used at the Biomedical Laboratory, Poltekkes Kemenkes Riau, Indonesia, from August to October 2024. Twenty-four female Swiss mice (Mus musculus), aged 8–10 weeks and weighing 25–30 g, were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6 per group). The control group received standard feed, while the treatment groups were administered MSG orally at low (0,25 g/kg body weight/day), medium (1 g/kg body weight/day), and high (4 g/kg body weight/day) doses for eight weeks. Ovarian tissues were examined using histopathology and flow cytometry. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), post-hoc tests, and correlation analysis. The medium- and high-dose groups showed significant reductions in primary (12,3 ± 2,1; 8,7 ± 1,9) and secondary follicles (7,8 ± 1,5; 4,9 ± 1,2), accompanied by tissue degeneration and germ cell apoptosis. A strong negative correlation was observed between MSG dose and mature follicle count (r = –0,72; p < 0,01). In conclusion, these findings demonstrate dose-dependent ovarian impairment, underscoring the need for dietary risk evaluation and increased public awareness regarding excessive MSG consumption.ChE is not strong enough to assess changes in body composition clinically.
The effect of medication and nutrition education on therapy adherence among hypertensive patients in the post-pandemic hospital setting Latu, Saparuddin
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2700

Abstract

Hypertension is a chronic condition that requires long-term adherence to pharmacological treatment and lifestyle modifications. The inadequate integration of drug education and nutrition counseling in clinical settings hinders treatment adherence, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to analyze the influence of the quality of drug education and nutrition counseling services on treatment adherence among patients with hypertension. A quantitative analytical study with a cross-sectional design was conducted at the Primaya Inco Sorowako Hospital, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, from May to June 2025. Eighty outpatients with hypertension were selected using purposive sampling based on the predefined inclusion criteria. The data were collected using validated questionnaires. Spearman’s correlation and multiple linear regression were used for analysis. The quality of drug education showed a significant positive correlation with treatment adherence (r = 0,61; p < 0,001), as did nutritional counseling (r = 0,53; p < 0,001). Both variables jointly influenced adherence (R² = 0,46), with drug education being the dominant predictor (β = 0,48; p < 0,001). These findings suggest that enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration between pharmacists and nutritionists is essential for improving adherence in patients with hypertension.
Nutritional status, age and gender factors associated on pneumonia in congenital heart disease: A hospital-based cross-sectional study in Banda Aceh, Indonesia Sovira, Nora; Dimiati, Herlina; Yusuf, Sulaiman; Bakhtiar, Bakhtiar; Ismy, Jufitriani
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2442

Abstract

Pneumonia is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children with congenital heart disease (CHD). Risk factors for pneumonia in these children include anemia, hypoxemia, nutritional status, congestive heart failure, and neuromuscular disorders. This study aimed to determine the risk factors for pneumonia in children with CHD at the Dr. Zainoel Abidin Public Hospital, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. This analytical, observational study employed a cross-sectional approach. This study included children aged 1 month to 18 years who were treated at the Dr. Zainoel Abidin Public Hospital from January 2022 to December 2023. Data were collected from medical records of 121 children who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were analyzed using bivariate analysis with the chi-square test and multivariate analysis with logistic regression. Pneumonia was observed in 66 (54,5%) patients. The majority of children with critical illnesses who developed pneumonia were between 1 month and 5 years of age (60%), female (61,7%), had poor nutritional status (53,2%), and had a birth weight ≥ 2500 g (54,5%). The type of CHD was found to be a significant risk factor for pneumonia (p = 0,024), with an odds ratio of 3,16 (95% CI: 1,162–8,617). In conclusion, the CHD type is a risk factor for pneumonia in children with CHD.
The impact of video nutrition education on nutrition knowledge, food selection, and ultra-processed food consumption in adolescents Rusfianti, Alfia; Widyaningsih, Vitri; Hikmayani, Nur Hafidha
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2586

Abstract

The processed food and beverage industry in Indonesia is increasing rapidly, one of which is the ultra-processed food (UPF) industry. Adolescents had a high prevalence of UPF consumption habits (67.6 %). Adolescents generally prefer foods that are easy to obtain and have a good taste, such as ultra-processed foods and beverages. Consumption of snacks by adolescents with more than three servings per day at school can cause overweight. Good nutrition education needs to be provided in an effort to increase adolescent knowledge, and it is hoped that there will be changes in nutritional behavior in the selection and consumption of better food. The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of nutritional education videos on nutritional knowledge, food selection, and the frequency of ultra-processed food consumption. The design in this study uses the Quasi-Experimental research type, using a design (pretest-posttest control group design). The research was conducted at Senior High School (SHS) A and SHS B in Depok City, West Java. The sample in this study comprised 174 adolescents from January to February 2024. Data on nutritional knowledge, food selection, and frequency of UPF consumption were collected before and after the intervention using nutritional knowledge questionnaires, food selection, and FFQ forms. Data analysis was performed using Wilcoxon and different-in-different tests. The results of the Wilcoxon test in the intervention group showed an effect of providing education before and after the intervention nutrition education video on nutrition knowledge on nutritional knowledge (p=0,000) and food selection (p=0,009). In conclusion, video media have an effect on changes in nutritional knowledge. Video media had no effect on food selection or the frequency of UPF consumption.
The impact of spirituality on blood glucose control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Padangsidimpuan Antoni, Adi; AA, Abdullah; Hadi, Anto J.; Nur, Nur Hamdani
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2715

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic degenerative disease that requires lifelong management. Beyond biological, psychological, and social needs, spirituality is an essential dimension for individuals with chronic conditions. The number of individuals with diabetes in Padangsidimpuan has steadily increased, creating a burden on health services. This study aimed to explore the role of spirituality in the lives of patients with type 2 DM. A qualitative design with a phenomenological approach was applied, involving seven Muslim participants who met the inclusion criteria of no cognitive impairment, diagnosis for at least five years, a minimum bachelor’s education, and the ability to communicate effectively. The study was conducted in Padangsidimpuan from January to February 2025. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a structured guide and analyzed using Colazzi’s method assisted by Open Code software. Three major themes and seven subthemes emerged: (1) Spirituality as motivation to live with diabetes (lifelong journey, spiritual motivation, acceptance of illness); (2) Nature as God’s creation to relieve problems (healing power of water, nature as divine solution); and (3) Harmonious human relationships to stabilize blood glucose (peace through social interaction, charity for better control). In conclusion, spirituality played a positive role in providing motivation, reinforcing life’s meaning, and fostering harmonious relationships with oneself, others, and the environment, thereby supporting better blood glucose control in patients with DM.
The relationship between calcium, zinc and mothers height consumption with stunting incidence in Bengkulu City in 2024 Dinda, Inge; Suryani, Desri; Yunita, Yunita
AcTion: Aceh Nutrition Journal Vol 10, No 3 (2025): September
Publisher : Department of Nutrition at the Health Polytechnic of Aceh, Ministry of Health

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.30867/action.v10i3.2246

Abstract

Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem influenced by multiple factors, including dietary intake and maternal conditions. Low calcium and zinc intakes can hinder bone growth and metabolic processes, thereby increasing the risk of stunting. In addition, short maternal height, as a reflection of past nutritional status, played a role in fetal growth. This study aimed to analyze the association between calcium and zinc intake, maternal height, and the incidence of stunting among children in Bengkulu City. This quantitative study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted at the Sawah Lebar Primary Health Center, Bengkulu City, from April to May 2024. A total of 77 children aged 6–59 months were selected using simple random sampling. Dietary intake data were obtained through interviews using a semi-FFQ, while nutritional status was assessed using the height-for-age index. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation test. The results showed a significant association between calcium intake (r = 0.636), zinc intake (r = 0.280), and maternal height (r = 0.290) and stunting. In conclusion, the importance of adequate Ca and Zn intake and maternal nutritional status in supporting child growth. Therefore, nutritional interventions should be implemented early, not only for children but also for adolescent girls as future mothers.