Pentingnya Sarapan Sehat bagi Anak Usia Sekolah Dasar sebagai Modal Jangka Panjang Mencapai Hidup Sehat dan Produktif

Abstract

Introduction: Improving nutrition is essential across all stages of life—from pregnancy, infancy, and early childhood through adolescence and adulthood, including the elderly—to develop quality human resources. According to the 2004 RISKESDAS report, 40.6% of the population consumed less than 70% of the Nutritional Recommended Adequacy (NRA), with a significant proportion (41.2%) being school-age children (6–12 years). Proper nutrition is critical during this developmental phase to avoid growth and developmental disorders. Among key nutritional habits, breakfast plays a vital role in providing daily energy intake for school children.

Methods: Breakfast consumption is recommended between waking up and 9 a.m., ideally providing 15–30% of daily nutritional needs or approximately 300–400 kcal, which is 25% of the daily caloric requirement (1,400-1,500 kcal). A balanced breakfast should ideally include staple foods, side dishes, vegetables, fruits, and beverages. The emphasis is on the quality and balance of the components rather than on rigid dietary formulas.

Result: Breakfast generally contributes 25% of a child’s daily energy needs. However, many school-age children exhibit unhealthy eating habits and irregular breakfast consumption patterns, which can negatively affect their physical growth and cognitive development.

Conclusion: There is a need for self-awareness and behavioral change among school-age children to establish healthier lifestyles. Promoting regular, balanced breakfast habits is crucial in supporting their health, productivity, and cognitive performance.