Danone Indonesia Educates Parents about the Importance of Optimal Nutrition as a Key of Anemia and Stunting Preventions in Children
Jakarta, September 27, 2024 – Healthy nutrition during the first 1000 days of a child’s life is the primary foundation for their optimal growth. This period, which spans from the pregnancy period to the age of two, is a critical phase during which the child’s brain and physical development rapidly takes place. Inadequate nutrition during this period may cause serious health issues, including stunting and anemia, which have long-term impacts on the child. According to the Report of Indonesia’s Health Survey in 2023, the prevalence of stunting in Indonesia reaches 21.5%, while the prevalence of anemia in teenagers at the age of 15-24 is 15.5%. Among pregnant women, it makes up 27.7%.
Considering this urgency, Danone Indonesia participated in IdeaFest 2024, to strengthen education and understanding of parents regarding the importance of nutrition in early life, through Ideatalks powered by Danone Indonesia today (27/09), in Jakarta. With the theme “The Future Begins with a Foundation: The Importance of Nutrition in Early Life”, Danone Indonesia invited Dr. dr. Ray Wagiu Basrowi, MKK, FRSPH as the Medical & Scientific Affairs Director of Danone Indonesia, Yasmine Wildblood who is a Mom as well as a public figure, and Ilzam Nuzulul Hakiki as the Co-Founder of Gaia Parenting, to educate the Moms and to provide them with updated information related to Moms’ and kids’ health.
Medical & Scientific Affairs Director of Danone Indonesia, Dr. dr. Ray Wagiu Basrowi, MKK, FRSPH expressed that the First 1000 Days of Life is extremely crucial in preventing anemia and stunting. “One out of three Indonesian children experience anemia and stunting, which can be prevented through balanced nutrition, including iron and vitamin C. Iron deficiency, which is the main cause of anemia, may worsen the risk of stunting in children. Iron is imperative for cell growth and development, including brain cells which impact children’s cognition and learning ability. As a company that focuses on nutritional needs, Danone Indonesia is committed to support the government in overcoming stunting and preventing anemia through education and collaborations with various communities as well as programs such as Isi Piringku, Warung Anak Sehat, and WASH for better sanitation,” he explained.
According to dr. Ray, there are several symptoms of anemia in children. The child usually seems pale, weak, fatigued, and often experiences dizziness. Anemia can also be indicated by decresed appetite and declining learning ability. To prevent anemia, parents need to make sure that children receive balanced nutrition, especially iron intake from red meat, green vegetables, and fortified foods such as milk and cereals. The importance of food fortification cannot be overlooked, as the iron contained in processed foods helps to provide for children’s nutritional needs that may be difficult to fulfill from their daily diet.
Recognizing the important role of the community in educating parents, the Gaia Parenting community is also active in providing the correct information through social media. “As a digital platform that shares information about mothers and children, we notice that contents about children’s health always gain high engagement, this proves that young mothers are very aware about children’s growth and development. Therefore, we try to present educational contents that are credible and interesting. We also work with health experts to ensure that the information shared is precise and accurate,” said Gaia Parenting Co-Founder, Ilzam Nuzulul Hakiki.
Meanwhile, Yasmine Wildblood, a mother and public figure, shared her personal experience in dealing with concerns about her child’s nutrition. “As a parent, my biggest concern is when my child shows signs of poor health, such as anemia. When my little one seems weak or lacking in energy, I immediately wonder if my child is lacking iron or other essential nutrients. That’s why it’s important for me to always ensure that my child’s nutritional intake is balanced. I choose milk that contains vitamin C and iron to help fulfill my child’s daily nutritional needs. I also seek accurate and credible information from trusted sources, and always consult my doctor when any alarming signs appear.”
Raising public awareness about the importance of nutrition in the first 1,000 days of life is still a challenge to overcome. Myths and misinformation are still widely circulated among parents, so it is important for all parties, from individuals, communities, to the private sector, to collaborate in improving education around child nutrition. Through innovative programs and supports from various parties, it is hoped that anemia and stunting rates in Indonesia can be suppressed, so that future generations can grow healthier and more productive.
