Unhealthy Eating Habits Causing Anemia in Indonesian Adolescents
In a concerning revelation by Maria Endang Sumiwi, the Director General of Public Health from the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes), it was reported that one in five teenagers in Indonesia is suffering from anemia due to poor eating habits lacking in iron. This issue was highlighted during a media event for National Nutrition Day at the Kemenkes RI office on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
Efforts to address this growing problem include providing iron supplements in the form of blood tablets (TTD) to support adolescents in their growth process. Regular consumption of TTD can help reduce the risk of anemia among teenagers. Maria emphasized that the target audience for this intervention is students in junior high and high school, who are required to take TTD once a week for a year.
Apart from adolescents, anemia is also prevalent among women of childbearing age, with one in five experiencing the condition. Additionally, one in three pregnant women suffer from anemia, accounting for 27.7% of cases. Children aged 6-14 also face the same issue, with 16.3% of them being affected by anemia.
The root of the problem lies in the changing dietary patterns of the population, especially among teenagers. Maria pointed out that urban areas offer a plethora of food choices, most of which are heavily advertised. This shift towards commercialized food products has led to the abandonment of local, nutritious options.
### Impact of Unhealthy Eating Habits
According to Maria, teenagers’ diets are characterized by high consumption of sugary drinks (52%), salty foods (32%), instant meals (11%), foods high in additives (78%), and skipping breakfast (65%). This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for a shift towards healthier eating habits.
### Government Initiatives and Recommendations
The government has stepped in with initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meal Program (MBG) to improve nutritional intake. However, Maria stressed the importance of individual responsibility in choosing nutritious foods for all three daily meals at home. This aligns with Kemenkes’ theme for the 65th National Nutrition Day celebration, “Choose Nutritious Foods for a Healthy Family,” aimed at raising public awareness about the significance of selecting nutritious foods.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s crucial to prioritize our health by making informed choices about what we consume. Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own eating habits and consider how we can make small changes that can have a big impact on our overall well-being. By consciously opting for nutrient-rich foods and setting a positive example for the next generation, we can contribute to a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones.
