Frequency, amount, and supplementation of vitamin A food sources to enhance vitamin A sufficiency status among toddlers aged 12-59 months

Abstract

Vitamin A plays a crucial role as a micronutrient, particularly in relation to vision and growth. However, excessive intake of Vitamin A can lead to impaired vision and growth in toddlers. This study aimed to examine the impact of the frequency and amount of Vitamin A from food sources, as well as the intake of Vitamin A supplements, on the sufficiency status of Vitamin A in toddlers aged 12-59 months. The research design employed a quantitative approach using an analytical cross-sectional survey with a sample of mothers and toddlers aged 12-59 months, totaling 100 respondents. The relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable was analyzed using the Chi-Square (α=0.05) statistical test with a 95% confidence interval. Quantitative results indicated a Vitamin A sufficiency status (71%), frequency of intake (56%), amount of intake (64%), and intake of Vitamin A supplements (60%) in the 'more' category. The results of the chi-square test showed the effect of Vitamin A food source intake on Vitamin A sufficiency status with a p-value of 0.002. Optimizing Vitamin A sufficiency among toddlers aged 12-59 months requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on frequency, amount, and appropriate food sources.