The association between dietary patterns and physical activity with the nutritional status of children aged 10-12 years in Indonesia

Childhood obesity is a significant health concern globally. Obesity in children lead to various health problems in adulthood. Undernutrition also poses risks, affecting physical development and increasing susceptibility to illness. Both overnutrition and undernutrition are critical issues that impact children’s longterm health. This research aimed to analyze the association between dietary patterns and physical activity with nutritional status of children aged 10-12 years at Ta’miriyah elementary school in Surabaya. This study is an observational research design with a cross-sectional approach. Data collected through interviews to assess the frequency food questionnaire, 1x24 hours food recall form, international physical activity questionnaire, and anthropometric measurement. Of the 66 children studied, 54.5% had good nutritional status based on BMI/age. However, 31.8% children were categorized as overweight and obese. Most childrens did not meet their recommended daily nutritional intake. Their diets lacked variety and low frequency of eating vegetables and fruits. While most children had moderate physical activity (84.8%), the duration was below WHO recommendations. This study found no relationship between nutritional intake and dietary patterns. However, there was a negative association between nutritional status and physical activity. Many children did not adhere to recommended dietary and physical activity guideline. The study concludes that nutritional status is not related to dietary patterns in this age group, but it is related with physical activity. These highlights the importance of promoting adequate physical activity to maintain optimal nutritional status in children.