Parents’ Awareness of Healthy Food Intake among Toddlers in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia

Abstract

Parents play a crucial role in the upbringing and education of children, who are the country's future assets. Early education should commence at home, focusing not only on shaping the child's attitude and spirituality but also on providing a balanced diet that promotes overall health. Nutritious food is vital as it provides energy for active movement, supports the proper functioning of cells and organs, and strengthens the child's immune system. In 2019, revealed that one in five children under the age of five in Malaysia suffers from stunting. This alarming situation underscores the need for parents to address this issue seriously to safeguard the well-being of future generations. Furthermore, children are influenced by media and peers, often preferring sugary and high-calorie foods such as cakes, ice cream, snacks, and fast food. Hence, this study aimed to assess the level of parental awareness regarding the selection of daily food for children. Utilizing a quantitative approach and descriptive and regression analysis, the study involved 80 parents from various day care centers in the Kuantan district. The study's results indicated that parents with higher educational backgrounds displayed greater knowledge of healthy food intake. This suggests that education might play a role in increasing awareness and understanding of healthy eating habits among parents. Parents are clearly attentive and dedicated to offering their children nutritious and well-balanced meals.