Association between Children's Nutritional Knowledge and Nutritional Status among Residents of Muara Bungo Market Area

Background: Nutritional problems in children are complex, both in terms of quantity and quality. Irregular eating habits, plus a lack of nutritional knowledge can affect a child's nutritional status. This study aimed to examine the association between children's nutritional knowledge and nutritional status, and the role of education in forming healthy eating habits. Methods: This was quantitative research with a cross-sectional study design. A total of 30 samples were collected from children aged 5-14 years in the Muara Bungo market area, using a total sampling technique. The research variables were knowledge and nutritional status of children. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: 53.30% of children with poor nutritional knowledge had good nutritional status and 46.70% had poor nutritional status. 40.00% of children with good nutritional knowledge had good nutritional status and 60.00% had poor nutritional status. Bivariate analysis showed no statistically significant association between children’s nutritional knowledge and nutritional status (p = 0.715). Conclusion: Nutritional education, healthy eating patterns, and regular monitoring of children's nutritional status at Posyandu and cross-sectoral collaboration are fundamental to improving children’s nutritional status.