Chapter 1-3

Republic of the Philippines
CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

Nabua, Camarines Sur
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
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CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Introduction
As children grow older, they undergo different changes of food preferences. They
develop their likes and dislikes for foods which will become basis for their attitudes and
food habits during their later years. Throughout their childhood, nutrition continues to
play an important role, not only for growth and development, but also for their physical
and mental performances as they also enter into a wide range of activities outside the
home. During this period, their eating habits are affected by the influence of different
children that they meet during socialization. Nutrition is the most important single factor
affecting health. It plays an important role in prevention and control of many diseases and
condition. Good nutrition indicates the right amount and kinds of food to meet the needs
of all body cells. Good nutritional status is a condition of the body which results from
proper use of all important nutrients.
Maintaining one’s health is a very crucial thing a nurse can do yet results to be
useful in maintaining the equilibrium of one’s life so careful assessment and effective
planning shall be made. A nurse applies different interventions in improving one’s health
and these are successfully met when done wholeheartedly. Clienteles varies from ages to
gender, health condition to health practices, thus, all must receive proper care to have a
healthy living.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) defines malnutrition as “the cellular
imbalance between supply of nutrients and energy and the body’s demand for them to
ensure growth, maintenance, and specific functions.” The effects of changing
environment conditions in increasing malnutrition are multifactorial. Poor environmental
conditions may increase insect and protozoal infections and also contribute to
environmental deficiencies in micronutrients. Overpopulation, more commonly seen in
developing countries, can reduce food production, leading to inadequate food intake or
intake of foods of poor nutritional quality. Conversely, the effects of malnutrition on
individuals can create and maintain poverty, which can further hamper economic and
social development (Shaschidhar, 2021).
Under the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Eight Millennium
Development Goals was created and the number one goal is the Eradication of Poverty
and Hunger. The specific target is to reduce by one half the proportion of the 2018
population that is below the minimum level of dietary energy consumption by the year
2020. Moreover, in meeting with this target the Food and Nutrition Research and Institute
(FNRI) has conducted National Nutrition Surveys, an updated assessment on the food
consumption and nutrition status in the Philippines. As a result, it was found that there
was a significant increase in the prevalence of underweight among 6-10 years old
children for 22.8% in 2018 to 25.6% in 2021. Likewise, underweight among these
children increased significantly from 32% in 2018 to 33.1% in 2021. Among 11-12 years
old, there were 25.5% who are underweight (FNRI-DOST, 2021).

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Based from the Food Insecurity Survey, among children about 2 out of 10
children experienced food insecurity while skipped eating or missing meals was the most
frequent experienced in the past three months. One out of 10 children experienced hunger
but did not eat because there was no food or money to buy food. Five out of 10 mothers
felt their children were not eating enough in terms of quantity and nutritional adequacy
because the households do not have enough food and energy to buy more food (FNRI-
DOST, 2021).
Currently, the government is focused on children under five years old in which a
lot of programs are routinely done in each barangay and one of these is the monthly
feeding program. The Barangay Health Workers of the locale of the study confirmed that
the only have the data of children within this age group. As part of their study, the
researchers focus and close this research problem on children ages 6-12, because aside
from the fact that this age group’s growth and development occurs at a slow rate, they
found out that the Local Government Unit (LGU) of the municipality of Baao,
specifically the Rural Health Unit (RHU), lacks records on nutritional status regarding
the said group. thus, with this they will be able to provide the nutritional status and at the
same time they will be able to contribute in the implementation of other programs for the
improvement of the nutritional status of this age group at the locale of the study.
As concerned student nurses and a citizen of the country, this study was
conceived to help children move towards life against starvation and malnutrition, because
the researchers believe that children are countries enlightened and responsible citizen of
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tomorrow. They may contribute and help children by information dissemination through
health education. Monthly monitoring and feeding may also be done through the help of
the Local Government Unit (LGU). They may contribute in reducing the problem
however it needs hard work, patience and perseverance to come up with the desired
goals.
Objectives of the Study
This study was an attempt to determine the nutritional status 6-12 years old
children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. Specifically, it sought to answer the following
questions:
1. To determine the respondents in Profile A: age, sex, grade level, no. of siblings,
ordinal position and Family monthly income; B. weight, height, Food allergies, degree of
malnutrition.
2. To determine the Food preferences of the children ages 6-12 during their regular meals
like; breakfast, lunch, and supper.
3. To know the eating habits of the children?
4. To test if there is no significant relationship between the eating habits and degree of
malnutrition
5. To propose a plan to improve the nutritional status of children ages 6-12 residing at
San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur
Assumptions of the Study
The study was based on the following assumptions that:

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1. The profile of the respondents varies.
2. The respondents’ food preferences vary depending on their regular meals.
3. Each child has different eating habits.
4. Different proposed plans can be of great help to improve the nutritional status of
children ages 6-12 residing at San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.
Null Hypothesis
The researchers hypothesized that there is no significant relationship between
eating habits and degree of malnutrition.
Significance of the Study
The researchers premised to undertake this study that aims to benefit the
following:
Children 6-12 years old. As the recipient of this study, they will become aware
of the proper nutritional intake. This will aid in reducing and if possible, eliminating
malnutrition and starvation.
Parents. This study will help them to become aware of the nutritional status of
their children thereby, helping them to become responsible in nourishing and realizing
the nutritional state of their children in becoming a healthy individual.
Community. This stud will provide knowledge and could bring home more
insights to the people in the community to be aware and more responsible on proper
foods to eat and activities to maintain proper nutritional status especially foe their loved
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ones. This could be their basis in establishing new reinforcements towards a better child
care.
Barangay Health Care Team. This study will serve as their additional basis in
monitoring the nutritional status of the children thus various activities and program will
be proposed and implemented to reduce malnutrition and enhance health education. The
outcome of this study could be their basis in the improvement of their services in
planning activities for the perception of illnesses and also for the promotion of nutritional
status of the family especially the children.
Local Government Unit. The findings of this study will help the leaders of the
government units to initiate health education and valuable activities like seminars or
meeting as well as programs in controlling malnutrition of children like feeding program.
Hence, this will be their basis in improving their existing programs in improving the
nutritional status of children.
Department of Health. This will serve as a reliable source and will motivate
them to have researchers and follow up actions in eliminating malnutrition of Filipino
children towards a better life.
Researchers. This stud will help them enhance their knowledge and wisdom
about promoting a healthy individual and this will also help to provide holistic approach
of care to individual or family in any setting. This can also motivate the researchers to
develop their attitude in the management of giving care to others and in their
responsibility.
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Future researchers. This will serve as a guide to the future researchers and give
sufficient knowledge and information especially when it comes to the related studies as
part of their undergraduate thesis. This will also help to discover new improvements on
the problem.
Scope and limitation of the study
The scope of this study focused on the nutritional status of 6-12 years old
Children at San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. The respondents were randomly selected.
Among the age group, the study is limited on the profile of the respondents which
included the personal and nutritional profile, food preferences and also their eating habits.
Dry run will be conducted at Bagumbayan, Bula, Camarines with 20 randomly selected
respondents. Final Interview was conducted using the questionnaire as guided by the
researchers. The study began December 2022 to April 2023.
Definition of Terms
For purpose of clarification and better understanding, the following terms are
defined conceptually or operationally.
Degree of malnutrition. Is the extent of inadequate food and liquid intake which
is necessary for man’s physiologic functioning; it can be determined through Body Mass
Index Calculation.
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Eating Habits. Refer to why and how people eat which foods they eat and with
whom they eat, as well as the ways people obtain, store, use and discard food.
(Rodriquez, 2020).
Food allergies. Are an abnormal response to a food triggered by a man’s immune
system (MedlinePLUS, 2022).
Food preferences. Are the choses or selected foods to be eaten by an individual.
Also making a food choice based on what you enjoy most, find most satisfying, feel best
eating, etc. based on your body's needs and desires.
Height. Is the distance from the bottom to the top of something standing upright.
(Merriam-Webster, 2019).
Nutritional Status. Is an individual’s condition determined through diet by body
mass index and its degree of malnutrition as well as food preferences and eating habits.
Weight. Is a body’s relative mass or the quantity of matter contained by it, giving
rise to a downward force, the heaviness of a person or a thing. (Google-dictionary, 2021)

CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter contains review of related literature and studies and the synthesis of
the State-of-the-art. Likewise it contains theoretical and conceptual framework with the
presentation of paradigms. It presents discussions of ideas and findings which are in one
way or another relevant to the present study from which the researchers gained insights in
the course of their work.
Review of Related Literature and Studies
This section contains various literature and studies obtained from different
sources. Of the numerous literature and studies both foreign and local, the following are
related to the present study.
Nutritional Status
According to the book of Lippincott-Williams and Wilkins (2019), a healthy and
balanced nutritional status should be the goal for every individual. This goal is met when
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nutrient supply or intake meets the demand and requirement and balance occurs when
there’s overnutrition (supply exceeds demand) or undernutrition (demand exceeds
supply). A patient’s nutritional status can influence the body’s response to illness and
treatment. They added that a person must use his knowledge of nutrition to promote
health through education and counseling sick and healthy patients. This includes
encouraging patients to consume appropriate types and amount of food. It also means
considering poor food habits as a contributing factor in a patient with chronic illness.
Therefore, assessing nutritional status and identifying nutritional needs to meet the
requirements of a balanced diet are primary activities in planning patient care.
TK Indrani (2018) discussed about the social aspects of nutrition. He stated that
food means not only proteins, fats, mineral, vitamins and other nutrients-but much more:
it is part of security and civilization. Nations and civilizations are linked together not only
by ideas, but also by bread. Hunger and malnutrition are problems everywhere and have
harassed mankind and threatened peace throughout history. The growing incidence of
hunger and malnutrition should have come to the forefront of international concern.
Malnutrition has been defined as “a pathological state resulting from a relative or
absolute deficiency or excess of one or more essential nutrients”. It comprises four forms-
undernutrition, overnutrition, imbalance and specific deficiency.
Indrani also stated that according to FAO reports, there are about 460 million
people- 15 percent of the World’s population, excluding china-who are malnourished, of
which about 300 million live in South Asia where the constitute one-third of the
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population. He further stated that what makes the situation most serious is that
malnutrition’s main victims are children under the age of 15. In more developed countries
of the world nutritional problems are somewhat different. Overnutrition is encountered
much more frequently than undernutrition. The health hazards from overnutrition are a
high incidence of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular and renal diseases, and
disorders of liver and gallbladder.
Indrani proposed some of the remedial actions that can be taken up by the health
sector. These are the nutritional surveillance, nutritional rehabilitation, nutrition
supplementation (e.g feeding) and health education. However, since malnutrition is the
outcome of the several factors, the problem can be solved only by taking action
simultaneously at various level family, community, national and international levels. It
requires a coordinated approach of many disciplines-nutrition, food technology, health
administration, health education, marketing programme, etc. In short, it calls for a
comprehensive programme of social programme of the entire country.
The literature of J. Brown (2019) discusses that the good nutrition tales a
particular importance during the growing years. Children about food and its importance
to health and well-being during those early years of life and the also establishes food
preferences and physical activity patterns that may endure into the adult years. She
further stated that food preferences are highly individual matter. It’s hard to find two
people who share the same food likes and dislikes and many people are very picky about
how food is prepared and served. Based from Brown’s discussion, Birch stated that the
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foods likes and dislikes appear to be almost totally shaped by the environment in which
children learn about food. Which foods are offered the way they are offered and how
frequently foods are offered all influence whether a child will like a given food or not.
Stated on the published book of Grosvenor and Smolin (2021) that much of what
we eat depends on what we have learned to eat. Furthermore, this is not to say that
personal preferences don’t affect intake, but the foods that we learn to eat from our
parents and caregivers as well as our culture have a significant impact on the food we
choose to eat. They also stated that if a child’s role models eat a diet high in fat and low
in fruits and vegetables, the child will likely follow suit. They recommended that offering
children a variety of health nutritious foods allow them to meet their nutrient needs for
growth and development and to prevent or delay the onset of chronic diseases that plague
American adults.
Grosver et.al (2021) also stated that in United States, unfortunately, children and
adolescents consume a dietary pattern of low in fruits and vegetables and high in sweet
and salty processed foods. They added that they eat more than the recommended amount
of fat and not enough calcium. As children get older, the quality of their diet gets worse;
they drink less milk and eat less fruit. They conducted that these eating habits developed
during childhood and adolescents may last a lifetime and affect how healthy and how
long an individual’s later years are.
Too much television (TV) reduces activity and influences food choices. They
stated that many children today spend more time watching television than they do in any
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activity other than sleep. Televisions affects nutritional status in number of ways; it
introduces children to foods they might otherwise not expose to, it promotes snacking and
it reduces physical activity. They further explained that through advertising, television
has a strong influence on the food selected by young children. A review of commercials
broadcast during children’s programming found that over 60% were food products-
primarily sweetened breakfast cereals, sweet such as candy, cookies, doughnuts, and
other desserts; snacks and beverages – that are high in sugar, fat or salt.
Television also promotes snacking behavior. Although snacks are an important
part of growing child’s diet, while watching TV man children snack on sweet and salty
foods that are low in nutrient density. One study showed that children who watch 4 or
more hours of TV per day had more body fat and a greater Body Mass Index (BMI) than
those who watch 2 hours a day.
The American Dietetic Association (ADA 2019), sets nutrition standards for
child-care program and proposes that meal plan should include the following: Be
nutritionally adequate and consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, Involve
parents in planning, Follow recommended meal patterns that balance energy and nutrients
with children’s ages, appetites, activity levels, and special needs while respecting
cultural and ethnic differences, Minimize added fat, sugar, and sodium, Emphasize fresh
fruit, fresh and frozen vegetables and whole grains, Provide furniture and eating utensils
that are age appropriate and developmentally suitable to encourage children to accept and
enjoy mealtime.
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Guadalupe Hilario (2019), one of the contributors of ENRICH – a Philippine
magazine or health lifestyle and living, stated on his article “Feeding your Children” that
an underweight and underfed child can often be malnourished but so can an overweight
one. The individuals are said to be undernourished if their diet does not provide adequate
calories and nutrient for bodies maintenance and growth, or if they cannot fully utilize the
food they eat due to illness. Overnutrition occurs when they consume too many calories,
which the body cannot use. Meeting children’s nutritional needs is of fundamental
importance for their immediate and later in life health, wellbeing and performance.
Hilario also stated that according to Philippine’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute
(FNRI), they formulated a number of daily nutritional pyramids for Filipino children for
age groups 1 to 6, 7 to 12 and beyond.
The integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN) (2020), and award-
winning humanitarian news, stated that their article that the rice price and supply crisis,
coupled with the run-away prices of fuel in both global and local markets, present a clear
and present danger of more Filipinos of being hungry and in the long run, more
undernourished. Rising prices of basic food commodities have forced the Philippine
government to scale down efforts to address malnutrition among children, putting the
under sixes at nutritional risk. The Food for School programs have also been scaled down
and no longer cover all children in grades one to six, but only the first three levels. The
program involves the distribution of one kilogram per day of iron-fortified rice in public
schools for four months that children and their families can consume; it leads to improve
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school attendance. Prior to the food crisis, data showed the government was making
headway in reducing malnutrition among infants and children up to five years old, as well
as those aged 6-10.
They also conclude the two major components under the Philippine Plan of
Action for Nutrition are rice distribution among schoolchildren and food fortification. But
the tight supply of rice threatens to undermine nutrition efforts. The cutback on rice
distribution among schoolchildren has a direct effect on the campaign to reduce
malnutrition among children under six, Nutrition Centre of the Philippines Information
and Education Division Director Nerissa Babaran told IRIN “The school children are the
entry points for the distribution of the rice. If you cut back the coverage, you also in
effect cut back supply for the other members of the family.”
Mary Jane Icasiano (2020) – one of the author of Philippine Star, a Philippine
News and entertainment portal for the Filipino global community, stated on her article
“Are Filipino children losing their nutritional future?” that children worldwide are
increasingly turning into picky eaters – it’s a battle that may determine your child’s
nutritional future. Picky eating is a struggle that’s repeated across Filipino households
nationwide. In fact, it may even be happening right now in your own home. Because of
this, many parents come to rely on snacks eaten on the go, which tend to be salty, sweet,
or otherwise unhealthy. At mealtimes, moms will provide the “kid food”, easy-to-prepare
child-pleasers like ice cream, chicken nuggets, and pizza. Research also shows that the
diets of young children may be deficient in essential vitamins and minerals.

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A child who refuses to eat fruits and vegetables may, in the long run, develop
vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as anemia or vitamin A deficiency. Here in the
Philippines, the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) has reported that Filipino
picky eaters are at risk for deficiencies in the following nutrients; vitamin A, calcium,
iron, and zinc. As to the parents, the only want what’s best for their children. Providing
them with the proper nutrition during their formative years is very important because it
will help them function better as the grow up.
The Philippine Star (February, 2019), a famous Filipino newspaper, published an
article entitled Good Nutrition leads to Good Education. Stated in their article that the
alarming persistence of school dropouts, particularly in primary education has prompted
Nestle Philippines to step its drive to inculcate good nutrition into good education via its
Laki Sa Gatas Nutrition Education Advocacy. The UNDP report observed that the
participation rates in primary education by region are inversely correlated with the
incidence rates for food availability. The regions with highest participation rates, foe
instance, showed the lowest poverty incidence rates such as the National Capital Region,
Philippines Progress Report on the Millennium Development Goals.
The findings of the 7th National Nutrition Survey by the Food and Nutrition
Research Institute continue to push Nestle Philippines to intensify its nutrition education
advocacy. Since it was launched in 2006, the Laki Sa Gatas nutrition education advocacy
has visited close to 6,000 schools across the country and reached out to more than 2.8
million schoolchildren, more than 1.4 million mothers, and more than 89,000 teachers.
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The LSG team plans to visit schools in Bataan, Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya, Zamboanga, and
other places, targeting over 700,000 more students and more than 400,000 parents.
Ellalyn B. De Vera (2018), a contributor of Manila Bulletin, stated on her article
“4P’s improving lives of Filipino” that the government’s poverty reduction scheme
Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P’s) has improved the lives of its beneficiaries,
particularly in terms of healthcare, education, and livelihood, according to studies
conducted by the Ateneo De Manila University (AdMU) and the Social Weather Stations
(SWS). Social Welfare and Development Secretary Corazon Soliman said the SWS study
in particular showed that there were improvements in school attendance, use of health
services, immunization coverage, child nutrition, and knowledge of maternal health
services. The 4Ps provide cash grants to government-identified poor household on the
condition that lactating or pregnant mothers and young children avail themselves of
preventive healthcare and that school-aged children regularly attend school.
Pilot Spot Check conducted by SWS in the municipalities of Palapag,
Mondragon, Pambuhan in Northern Samar last February-March 2019 with 760 household
beneficiaries showed that “enrollment rate for beneficiaries six to 14 years old is
considered high at 96 percent. “Meanwhile, compliance with attendance among school
age beneficiaries is also high at 88 percent, meaning that out of approximately 5 million
children registered in the program, 88 percent are able to attend classes 85 percent of the
time following an every two-month cycle.” Soliman said. The DSWD chief also cited
that impact studies of the Ateneo and SWS revealed more students and parents attend
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extra-curricular activities, while students come to school with better clothing, project
materials, and food, making them more active in classrooms.
At present, some 2.2 million Filipino families are registered under the 4Ps.
DSWD has released a total of at least P4 billion worth of cash grants from January to
May this year. It offers P6,000 a year or P500 per month per household for health for
health and nutrition expenses and P3, 000 for one school year or 10 months or
P300/month per child for educational expenses. Each household receives a maximum of
P1,400 monthly for the three children enrolled in the program. A maximum of three
children per household are allowed. Soliman noted that DSWD is already on its mid-level
target of reaching the 4.6 million poor households identified by the National Statistical
Coordination Board (NSCB) by the end of 2018. "In the short term, the cash grants allow
poor households to respond to economic shocks and provide for their daily needs, and
even to make small investments that can improve their quality of life," Soliman said. "In
the long-term, because the program requires beneficiaries to keep children in school and
to undertake preventive health check-ups and accinations, children of poor households
can have better chances of lifting themselves out of poverty," she added Kanjilal,
Mazumdar, Mukherjee and Rahman (2017) studied on Nutritional status of children in
India: household socio-economic condition as the contextual determinant. Main findings
include a disproportionate burden of stunting is observed among the children from poor
SES, more so in urban areas. The state having lower prevalence of chronic childhood
malnutrition shows much higher burden among the poor. In spite of the declining trend of
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chronic childhood malnutrition in India, the concerns remain for its disproportionate
burden on the poor. The socio-economic gradient of long-term nutritional status among
children needs special focus, more so in the states where chronic malnutrition among
children apparently demonstrates a lower prevalence. The paper calls for state specific
policies which are designed and implemented on a priority basis, keeping in view the
nature of inequality in childhood malnutrition in the country and its differential
characteristics across the states. Barua, Mahanta and Medhi (2020) conducted a study to
assess the children of Tea Garden Worker of Assam. Compared to NCHS standard and
affluent Indian children, the mean height and weight of tea garden children was inferior
at all ages. Assessment of nutritional status using WHO recommended anthropometric
indicators revealed a high prevalence of malnutrition among tea garden school age
children and malnutrition was both chronic and recent in nature. Prevalence of wasting,
stunting, and underweight was 21.2%, 47.4% and 51.7% respectively among the children
in the age group of 6-8 years. Prevalence of stunting and thinness was 53.6% respectively
among the children in the age group 9-14 years age group.
The study of Busha, Lagunaite, Lubiene and Zaborskis (2019) revealed a three
cross sectional surveys 2015, 2016 and 2017.They used Lithuanian data from the cross-
national Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) study collected in 2015, 2016
and 2017. Analyses were conducted on comparable questionnaire-based data from
children aged 11, 13 and 15 (total n=17,189) from a random sample of schools. Based on
the food consumption trends observed in Lithuania, increases in consumption of fruits

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and vegetables should be promoted, along with a reduction in the intake of less healthy
choices, such as soft drinks and high-fat, high-sugar snack foods, by diminishing social
inequalities in food consumption. According to New University of Michigan Health
System research (2017) on their study that children who eat school lunches more likely to
be overweight, Middle school children who regularly eat school lunches are more likely
to be overweight or obese, develop poorer eating habits and have high levels of "bad"
cholesterol compared to those who bring lunches from home. A team of U-M
Cardiovascular Center researchers collected and analyzed health behavior questionnaires
completed by 1,297 sixth graders at Michigan public schools over a period of almost
three years. They discovered that children who consume school lunches were more likely
to be overweight or obese (38.8 percent vs. 24.4 percent) than those who ate lunches
brought from home. Children who ate school meals were more than twice as likely to
consume fatty meats (25.8 percent vs. 11.4 percent) and sugary drinks (36 percent vs.
14.5 percent), while also eating fewer fruits and vegetables (16.3 percent vs. 91.2
percent). Researchers also found these children had higher levels of low-density lipid
cholesterol (or "bad cholesterol") than their home-fed counterparts. Students reported on
what they consumed throughout the day-not just at lunchtime. In addition to gathering
information on dietary habits, researchers looked at sixth graders' self-reports of physical
activity, involvement in sports, and sedentary behaviors such as watching TV or playing
video games. They also collected information on student weight, height as well as blood
glucose and cholesterol levels.

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Oksana Matvienko (2020), an Assistant Professor University of Northern Lowa,
studied on the Impact of a Nutrition Education Curriculum on Snack Choices of Children
Ages Six and Seven Years. In this quasi-experimental study, students at 2 intervention
schools participated in a 4- week after-school program, Nutri Active Healthy Experience
that included nutrition lessons, healthy snacks, and parent education. Students at 2
comparison schools did not receive any intervention but participated in the assessment of
snack choices.
Intervention and comparison students were offered the choice of three out of ten
snack items at baseline, at the end of the four-week program, and four months later. The
participants were composed of 36 intervention and 23 comparison kindergarten and first-
grade students. Immediately after the program, the intervention group showed a 25.7%
improvement in choosing more healthful snacks, and the comparison group showed an
18.2% decline. At 4 months, the intervention group's score was 33.3% higher than
baseline and the comparison group's score remained 18.2% lower than baseline (time by
treatment interaction, P=.023). They concluded that the Intervention students were
significantly more likely than comparison students to choose more healthful snacks when
given the opportunity. The snack test may be a useful alternative for assessing snack
choices of children ages six to seven years.
In the study of Dela Cruz, Esplana and Esteban (2022), they focused on the
indigenous children that are one of the most vulnerable and marginalized group in the
world and global action is urgently needed to protect their survival and their rights. They
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stated that providing children the physical and intellectual health should thus be a priority
to everybody. Every child's nutrition is important to her overall health. Proper nutrition
can also prevent many medical problems including becoming overweight, developing
weak bones and other illnesses. Most of their respondents were 12 years old and
dominated by girls. Majority of them ate three times a day and some of the indigenous
school- aged children were found out to be low weight for their age and/or small for their
age. The researchers recommended that the government should come up with an
approach that would provide nutritional programs especially to each child so that
nutritional related problem will be lessened. Bolivar, Bona and Del Parto (2017) studied
on Nutritional Status of Primary Pupils at Nabua Central Pilot School, Nabua, Camarines
Sur. School Year 20016-2017. Respondents consist of elementary pupils from Grade one
to three. They found out that the majority of the pupils are seven years old; most of them
are females and mostly belongs in grade two. They eat more than three times a day and
have adequately hydrated and eat fruits and vegetables. Their family income is mostly
Php 5001-10000. The degrees of malnutrition were in normal nutritional status; the food
preferences of the pupils in breakfast are rice and egg: during recess they prefer to eat
biscuits and drink juice and they eat rice and vegetables during lunch and dinner.
Recommendations were identified including the information dissemination to the school
administrator and to parents as well, through the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA).
They also suggested that the government especially the LGU should come up with the
strategy or a program that would provide nutritional program to its constituent. Also, they
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had come up to recommend that the DOH Officials should construct an advocacy
program on health and nutrition regularly in school. They also proposed nursing
interventions to improve the nutritional status and quality of nursing care. The
researchers encouraged future researchers to have a follow-up study and improve result.
In the study of Beloro, Fordan and Tolete (2018), they stated in their study on Nutritional
Status and Health Practices of school aged children in Barangay San Juan, Nabua,
Camarines Sur that food and water are one of the basic needs of human being and all
living things, man cannot live without these two basic needs because these are used by
the body for growing up. They also stated that school age children today are prone for
being unhealthy because of food they eat in school.
Among the findings of their study are as follows: Out of 44 respondents, majority
are female. Water is the most preferred drink and rice is also the most preferred foods
during breakfast. During recess, they referred to eat candies and biscuit and juice to
drink. However, during their lunch they eat rice, vegetables canned goods and water. On
their dinner they eat rice, meat and water. Majority weighs 21-25 kg., 110-120 cm in
height. Above all majority eat their regular meals. Parents has important role in growth
and development of children. Furthermore, they added that parents should guide children
to proper nutrition; teach on proper foods to be eaten during break time in school for
children to know the right goods that are right to buy.
The study of Abaño, Lagatic and Tuyay (2020) entitled the health habits of the the
Grade Six pupils of Nabua West Central School, school year 2019-2020 had derived the
24
following findings. In terms of personal profile, majority of the respondents belong to the
age 12 years old, female, parent's occupation were mostly farmers and majority has a
family income that ranges from Php 2000- 4999.
The researchers identified the different criteria on health habits. These include
food habits, exercise, sleeping pattern, personal hygiene and environmental sanitation.
They concluded that majority of the respondents' food habits were that they eat three
times a day and the right amount of fluid intake is achieved. However, pupils still ate
junk foods and canned goods, which contain preservatives, and street foods. In terms of
exercise, majority of the respondents walk in going to school and used their leisure time
by playing basketball and engaging in some activities like playing, doing household
chores and participates in school activities.
In sleeping pattern, majority completed eight hours of sleep each night however
some reveals that they do not get normal hours of sleep due to sleeping late at night. But
respondents do not manifest any sleeping disorder. For personal hygiene, most of the
hygienic habits are properly practice but drink consultation is poorly achieved. In
Environmental sanitation, the researchers concluded that majority practice the proper
waste disposal and dispersal. However, there are still health practices as sanitation, which
are not properly practiced by the respondents.
Recommendations of the study were proposed such that the pupils should eat
variety of foods that are nutritious and they should also practice passive and isometric
exercise. They added that pupils should be aware of the importance of sleeping and they
25
should seek medical assistance at least twice a month. Furthermore, pupils should help in
household chores and that the school or student organization should organize a
workshops and seminars regarding health promotion. Lastly, the measures proposed in
their study were recommended to be adopted by the teachers, parents and most especially
by the pupils to improve their health status.
Ballebar, Lavapie, and Llagas (2017) studied on the extent of malnutrition among
children in Barangay Dolorosa, Nabua, Camarines Sur. The respondents were consisting
of children under the age of two years old and in terms of their gender, both males and
females have an equal number. They found out that majority of the family of the
respondents belong to a below average socio- economic status, and they concluded that
the children may not receive the right amount of food and the right amount of nutrients
that their body needs.
They recommended that the government must give assistance to those poor
families on how they are going to improve their living with the help of the barangay
officials and all the concerned organizations. They also implied that the children must be
given much attention for them to avoid malnutrition.
Theoretical Framework
This study is based on the work of the psychologist Abraham Maslow, Hierarchy
of Needs as cited by Atkinson and Murray (2019), who postulated that all human beings
have common basic needs that can be arranged in a hierarchal order. Maslow further
26
theorized that basic physical needs must be met to some degree before higher level needs
can be met. Basic physical needs such as food, fluid, and oxygen are considered survival
needs and must be met, or at least partially met, if life is to continue. They are the lowest
level of needs and are usually partially satisfied before higher level needs are satisfied.
The nursing cares are critically ill patients usually focused on physiological needs
and safety needs to prevent physical harm. When the patient improves and life is no
longer threatened, the satisfaction of higher level needs begin with security needs and
continue through self-actualization needs. (Murray& Atkinson 2019)
Maslow's theory becomes the basis of the formulation of the theoretical
framework of this study which is shown in Figure 1. It shows that growth and
development of a child continue to increase thus to expand a healthy living, he must
successfully meet the basic needs. Foods as one of the needs must be used properly. The
figure shows that a growing child to become healthy must meet the basic needs
specifically the food and water - both balanced and nutritious in order for him to step-up
to the next level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs.
In the present study the researchers base their study on Maslow's hierarchy of
needs. It has divisions by which the physiologic needs of foods, water, sleep, shelter,
sexual expression and freedom from pain - must be meet first, so it was on the base of the
pyramid. The second level is the safety and security followed by the third level which
involves love and belongingness. The fourth level involves self-esteem and the highest
level is the self-actualization.

27
The basic needs from the bottom must be successfully meet first in order to
continue the process and step-up to the next level. A person won't be able to successfully
meet the next level if didn't meet the bottom level. The pyramid runs from bottom till top.
28
Self
-
Act
uali
zati
on
Self-Esteem
Love and Belongingness
Safety and Security
Physiological Needs
..
29
THEORETICAL PARADIGM
Figure 1.
The theory is relevant to the present study because the researchers focus on one of
the basic needs of a man which is the food. They aim to assess and interpret the
nutritional status of children ages 6-12 residing at San Jose, Camarines Sur.
Conceptual Framework
This study focused on the Nutritional Status of Children ages 6-12 residing at San
Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. Figure 2 shows the paradigm of the study using system
approach with the input, process and output.
The input included the profile of the respondents in terms of personal and
nutritional profile. Personal profile included the respondents' age, sex, and grade level,
no. of siblings, ordinal position of the respondents and the monthly family income. The
height, weight, food allergies and the degree of malnutrition are included in nutritional
30
profile. Each respondent was asked about their food preferences during breakfast, lunch
and dinner. The eating habits of each respondent are also included.
In the process included the collection of the data through questionnaire and
informal interview. It also included the analysis of data, test for significance and the
formulation of proposed plan to improve the nutritional status of children.
The output of the study included the proposed plan to improve nutritional status
of children. The feedback mechanism used to determine if the output is effective, and if
necessary, adjustments or change may be made in the input. In addition, the broken arrow
to the process is made so that the adjustments may also be made in the process.
Input Process Output

1. Profile of the
Respondents
Personal
a. Age 1. Collection of data
b. Sex a. Questionnaire
c. Grade Level b.Informal
d. No. of Siblings Interview
e. Ordinal position
f. Family monthly 2. Analysis and
income interpretation of the
data Proposed Plan to
Nutrition improve the nutritional
a. Height status of children ages
b. Weight 3. Test for significant 6-12 residing at San
c. Food Allergies relationship between Jose, Baao, Camarines
d. Degree of eating habits and degree Sur.
Malnutrition of malnutrition.
2. Food Preferences 4. Formulation of

during proposed plan to
a. breakfast improve the nutritional
b. lunch status of the children.
c. dinner
31
Feedback
CONCEPTUAL PARADIGM
Figure 2.
Gap of the Study
From the different readings conducted in the library of CSPC, it was found out
that no past study has been conducted to find out the Nutritional Status of 6-12 years old
children at San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur; therefore, this present study was undertaken
to determine the nutritional status of children in the study.
Synthesis of the State-of-the-Art
The review of literature and studies discloses that considerable researches had
been made to emphasize the nutritional status of children. This section shows similarities
and differences of the present study to the review of related studies presented.
The study of Kanjlil et al (2017), Barua et.al (2020) and Busha et al (2019)
studied on nutritional status in India. Both the study of Barua et.al and Busha et al were
32
the same in respondents which are the school age children while the study of Kanjlil et al
the respondents are children aging 0-35 months. The only difference between the studies
mentioned above to the present study is the locale, variables and the studies they focused
on, because on the present study the researchers focused on However their study
attempted to measure the extent of socio-economic inequality in chronic childhood
malnutrition across major states of India and to realize the role of household socio-
economic status (SES) as the contextual determinant of nutritional state of children while
the present study will be focusing only on children ages 6-12 residing at San Jose, Baao,
Camarines Sur moreover they focuses on children whether In-school or Out-of- school.
In the study of Kanjlil et.al they attempted to measure the extent of socio-
economic inequality in chronic childhood malnutrition and the role of household socio-
economic status in India. And Bushan et.al studied on the trend in eating habits among
Luthuanian school age children in context of social inequality.
The University of Michigan Health System Research (2017) and Matvienko
(2020) focused on food preferences. The only difference in both studies to the present
study is the University of Michigan Health System Research focuses food preferences
during lunch and the study of Matvienko is the choices of food preferences of children
during snack while the present study focused not only food preference during lunch and
snack but the entire meal day.
The study of Dela Cruz et.al (2022), Bolivar et. al (2017), Fordan et.al (2018) and
Ballebar'set. al (2017) is somehow related to the present study because they focused on
33
nutritional status of school-aged children. They only differ in locale where they
conducted their studies, variables and the studies they focused on like the study of
Abañoet. al (2020) focused on the Health status of Grade Six pupils. The health practice
was in the study of Fordan et.al. also, the study of Dela Cruz et.al focused on indigenous
children who belong to a tribe and the study of Ballebar et.al discussed some concerns
about nutrition.
CHAPTER III
METHODOLOGY
This chapter presented of research methods and procedures that was applied in
the course of the study. Among those included in the discussion were: research method,
locale, respondents, instruments of the study, data gathering tools which includes
Preparation, Validation, Administration and Retrieval of questionnaires; and the
Statistical Treatment of the Data.
Research Design
The study used the descriptive survey method to find out the Nutritional Status of
6-12 years old children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. It attempts to determine,
describe, or identify the statement of the problem of the study. It uses description,
34
classification, measurement and comparison to describe a situation. The main
characteristic was that the researchers have no control over the variables. They only
report the situation as it is at the time. (wikieducator, 2018). This was used because it
helped in determining the profile, food preferences and the eating habits of the
respondents. Moreover, this helped them to determine their current nutritional status
hence, they will be aware and this will help them consider ways to achieve optimum level
of health.
Locale of the study
The locale of the study focused on the children ages 6-12 residing at San Jose,
Baao, Camaines Sur. The municipality of Baao is within the 5 th Congressional District of
the Province of Camarines Sur. The town is bounded on the north by the municipalities of
Pili and Ocampo, on the east by the city of Iriga, on the west by Bula, and South by the
municipality of Nabua. Plate 1 sows the location where the study took place and presents
other barangays of the Municipality of Baao.
The researchers conducted its study at the Baao, Camarines Sur. Among the
thirty-barangay surrounding the centro, one of which will be the locale of the research
namely San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.

35
However, there are four zones in barangay San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur which
will be the locale of our study.
Plate 1. The map of San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur
Respondents of the Study
The respondents involved in the study were the children ages 6-12 of San Jose,
Baao, Camarines Sur. The researchers sent a letter to the barangay captains know the
population of ages 6-12 years old and there are 119 respondents, The respondents were
selected randomly to obtain reliable information and to get better result of the study and
to avoid biases.
Research Instrument
36
The data of this study were gathered by means of questionnaire and structured
interview in order to gather reliable responses from the respondent’s parents.
Data Gathering Procedure
The main data-gathering tool that was used in this study was the questionnaire-
checklist. The information that was gathered by means of this tool was supported by
means of informal interview since the respondents are children aging 6-12 either In-
school or Out-school.
Questionnaire
A questionnaire was formulated to answer specific questions number one, two and
three of the research work. The questions were in Tagalog to make it easier for the
respondents which are children to comprehend with the questions. It was consisted of the
following pats: Part one, the profile of the respondents which was subdivided into
personal profile and nutritional profile; Part two, food preference; and Part three, the
eating habits of the respondents.
Preparation of the questionnaire. During the preparation of the questionnaire,
various medical books, websites and previous thesis were consulted by the researchers
which will greatly help in formulating questions. Documented data from other readings
which were relevant to the present study will served as a guide in formulating questions.
The type of questions was in a recognition type and choices were already provided; the
37
respondents had to choose from the given choices. It was composed of closed-ended
questions. (Cristobal et.al, 2009). This was for the respondents to comprehend the
questions being asked since the respondents are children ages 6-12.
Validation of the questionnaires. The questionnaire that was prepared was
submitted to the panelist during the title proposal for comments and recommendations.
Through checking of contents, appropriateness of the questions and after incorporating
their suggestions, a dry-run was conducted to at least twenty randomly selected children
ages 6-12 for the different barangay. A letter of permission was submitted to the
barangay hall. The results of the dry-run will indicate if the questionnaire was clearly
understood by the respondents.
Administration and retrieval of questionnaires. After the dry-run before
distributing the questionnaire, a permit to conduct the study was obtained from the
barangay captain of San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. Upon approval, administration of
questionnaire was done personally by the researchers and retrieval followed.
Statistical Treatment
After the retrieval of questionnaires, the researchers tallied the response that was
obtained for each question. Percentage technique, weighted mean, U Test, Kendall's
Coefficient of Concordance, and Body Mass Index was used.
Percentage Technique was used in determining the proportion of Percentage
Technique was respondents who answered the questions on profile of the respondents of
38
the study and the responses that was made for each item of the questionnaire. The
formula is:
f
P (%) = x 100
N
Where: P (%) = percentage
f= frequency
N= total no. of respondents
Weighted Mean was used to find out the extent of responses on the questions on
eating habits of the respondents. Below is the formula:
WM= f(W)
N
Where: WM= weighted mean
F= frequency
W= Weight
N= total no. of respondents
A Three-Point Scale was used to rate the eating habits of the children ages 6-12
with the following verbal interpretations.
SCALE INTERVAL SCALE VEBAL INTERPRETATION
3 2.50-3.00 Always
2 1.50-2.49 Sometimes
1 1.49 and below Never

39
Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance (W) (BROTO, 2007) was used to
determine the relationship between eating habits and degree of malnutrition.
Below is the formula:
Where: m = no. of columns
S = Squared summation of Difference
n = no. of rows
Body Mass Index (BMI) was used to compute for the weight over the height of a
child to determine the degree of malnutrition (Wikipedia, 2011). Below is the formula:
BMI= mass (kg)

[height (m)]2
Where: mass (kg)= mass in kilogram
Height (m)= height in meters
Degree of Malnutrition:
Category BMI range-kg/m2
Severely underweight less than 16.0
Underweight from 16.0 to 18.5
Normal from 18.5 to 25
Overweight from 25 to 30
Obese Class I from 30 to 35

40
Obese Class II from 35 to 40
Obese Class III over 40
CHAPTER 4
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
This chapter is the presentation of the results, analysis and interpretation of the
relevant data gathered about the nutritional status of 6-12 years old children in San Jose,
Baao, Camarines Sur. This chapter includes a discussion on the profile of the
respondents, nutritional profile, food preference, eating habits and degree of malnutrition.
The data were presented in a pie graph and tabular form to provide a clear presentation.
NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF 6-12 YEARS OLD CHILDREN IN SAN JOSE,

BAAO, CAMARINES SUR
41
1. Profile of the Respondents
The profile of the respondents is considered as one of the main variables which
can be linked to their nutritional status. The data provides information regarding the
profile of the respondents in terms of personal profile which includes the age, sex, status
of schooling, grade level in school, number of siblings, ordinal position and monthly
income. In terms of nutritional profile it includes food allergies and the degree of
malnutrition.
Good nutrition is important, no matter what your age. It gives you energy and can
help you control your weight. Increasing age is independently associated with poor
nutritional status. Young children are more prone to poor nutrition and health conditions
than adults. Poor nutrition among children of this age could not only contribute to
increased likelihood of contracting serious illnesses but may also have a permanent effect
on their health and development
Age. Figure 3 shows the age distribution of the respondents. The data shows that
out of 119 respondents, 20 percent belongs to eight years of age, the biggest group among
the respondents; 17 percent are ten years old; 16 percent belongs to six years old; 14
percent belongs to nine years old; 13 percent are 11 years old; 11 percent are seven years
of old; and lastly nine percent are 12 years old.
9%
16%
13%
11% 12 years old

11 years old
10 years old
8 years old
20% 7 years old
6 years old
14%
42
Figure 3. Distribution of Respondents According to Age
Based from the data, it can be deduced that majority of the respondents belong to
eight years old and only nine respondents are 12 years old. In spite of randomly selected,
this shows that at these ages they need to utmost care and proper guidance from their
parents. Majority of the respondents are eight years old, at this age children are frequently
begin to identify themselves as “athletic” or “unathletic,” thereby influencing their future
involvement in sports and physical activity. Thus, physical activity is influenced by
nutritional status of children. It is because if a child’s nutritional status is within normal
therefore he or she is physically, mentally, socially, emotional and psychologically
healthy.
Sex. Figure 4 represents the distribution of male and female respondents. Out of
119 respondents, 56 percent are male and 44 percent are female. It is also an important
44%
56% Male
Republic of the Philippines Female
43
factor in determining one’s nutritional status. It is because the height and weight of male
varies from female. During this stage, females’ developments are faster than males.
Figure 4. Distribution of Respondents according to Sex
From the figure above, it can be inferred that males outnumbered the females.
Determining the sex of the respondents contributes to the understanding of their
respective nutritional needs. This is possible since the manner of selecting the
respondents is random, where in each child had the equal chance of being selected as
respondents.
Status of Schooling. Figure 5 presents the status of schooling of the respondents.
Of the total respondents, 94 percent are in-school while six percent are out-of-school. It
can be deduced that majority of the respondents are studying and only a small portion are
44
out of school. Being in school is an important factor in the understanding of children ages
6-12 of the importance of nutrition to their health.
This clearly shows that most of the respondents are entering school or attending
class to learn and be equip with knowledge.
6%
In-school
Out school
94%
Figure 5. Status of Schooling
Grade level in School. As shown in Figure 6, out of 112 respondents, 29 percent
are Grade One; 20 percent are in Grade Two, 15 percent of the respondents are in Grade
Three; 14 percent are in Grade Four while kinder pupils garnered 12 percent. Lastly, 5
percent claimed both Grade Five and Six.
These findings revealed that most of the respondents are in Grade 1 level. Despite
of randomly selected. It has been revealed that most of the respondents are still in need
45
for proper guidance of parents as well as teachers on proper foods to be prepared and
eaten during snacks when they are in school since within this grade level, their
knowledge about proper nutrition is still limited.
5% 12%
5%
14%
Kinder
Grade 1
Grade 2
29%
15% Grade 3
Grade 4
Grade 5
Grade 6
20%
Figure 6. Distribution of In-School respondents according to Grade Level
Number of Siblings. Figure 7 shows the number of siblings of the respondents.
Out of 119 respondents, 57 percent belongs to the range of 0-4 siblings and 43 percent of
them belong to 5-10 siblings.
This figure illustrates that the number of siblings’ ranges 0-4 occupied the biggest
group among the respondents. Most of the respondents belong to a small family since
there is a large prevalence of poverty at the locale of the study, thus each parents limit
their children because of the hard life in sustaining their family needs.
43%
57% 0 to 4
5 to 10
46
Figure 7. Distribution of Respondents According to Number of Siblings
Ordinal Position. Out of 119 respondents as shown in Figure 8, 48 percent of
them are middle child according to the birth order of the respondents; 28 percent are
youngest in the family; 21 percent are eldest child and lastly, only 3 percent are the only
child in the family.
This table revealed that most of the children are middle child. The number of
siblings influences the nutritional status of the respondents because the number of the
dependent individuals in the family affects the distribution of foods thereby affecting also
the quality and quantity of food eaten.
3%
21%
28%
Eldest
Middle
Youngest
Only Child
48%
47
Figure 8. Distribution of Respondents According to Ordinal Position
It simply explained that as the number of family increases, the less amount of
food available to each member, the less nutritional content they received. And because of
insufficient budget it takes the children into risk of being malnourished. This table
revealed that most of the children were in middle child.
Family Monthly Income. Figure 9 presents the monthly income of their parents.
Out of 119 respondents, 61 percent received a monthly income of Php 9,520 and below,
24 percent received a monthly income between Php 9,520-38,080, six percent earned for
about Php 38,080-114,240 and Php 114,240-190,400 monthly. Lastly, three percent
received a monthly income of at least Php 190,400.
3%
6% 6%
Less than Php 9,520

Between Php 9, 520-38,
24% Between Php 38, 080-114,
240
61% Between Php 114, 240-190,
400
At least Php 190, 400
48
Figure 9. Distribution of Respondents According to Family Monthly Income
Majority of the respondents’ Parents received a monthly income of Php 9,520
and below. The family monthly income greatly affects the nutritional status of children
since they are still dependent on their parents, thus parents is the ones who are providing
the needs of their child. Majority of the respondents’ parents may or may not be able to
afford necessary to improve the nutritional status of their children.
B. NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Presence of Food Allergies. Figure 10 shows that out of 119 respondents, 85
percent has no allergies and 15 percent has allergies. Based from the result majority has
no known allergy.
15%
With
Without
49
85%
Figure 10. Distribution of Respondents according to the Presence of Food Allergies
Dietary limitations secondary to food allergy can lead to failure to thrive and/or
deficiencies in specific macro and micronutrients. Several studies demonstrate that
children with food allergies have lower intakes of total energy and macro/micronutrients
than children without food allergy.
Food Allergies. Figure 11 shows that out of 18 respondents who has allergies,
seven or 39 percent have an allergy on eggs, three or 17 percent on shrimp, followed by
chicken, seafoods and peanuts which has two or 11 percent. Lastly, one or 6 percent have
an allergy on junk food and 5 percent on meat.
This suggest that some of the respondents have allergies and this could affect
their nutritional status. Instead of eating nutritious foods, some may avoid it causing
allergic reactions to their body. Thus, nutritional value intake is less. Intake of eggs adds
protein to a person’s diet, as well as various other nutrients. They supply all essential
amino acids for humans, and provide several vitamins and minerals, include retinol
(Vitamin A), riboflavin (vitamin B2), folic acid (vitamin B9), vitamin B6, vitamin B12,
choline, iron, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. They are also a single-food source of
50
protein. All of the egg’s vitamin A, D, and E are in the egg yolk. The egg is one of the
few foods to naturally contain vitamin D. Egg protein is a rich source of the essential
amino acid leucine, which is important in, modulating the use of glucose by skeletal
muscle and in facilitating muscle recovery after exercise.
It also contains cholesterol which helps in maintaining the flexibility and
6%
5%
11%
39%
Egg
Shrimp
11% Peanut
Chicken
Seafoods
Meat
11% Junkfoods
17%
Figure 11. Distribution of Respondents who have Food Allergies
Permeability of cell membrane and is also a raw material for the fatty lubricants that help
to keep the skin supple. Cholesterol for the production of sex hormones, cortisol, vitamin
D and bile salts. However, if the child has food allergies on eggs, alternative foods like
meat, legumes and whole grains are served.

51
Seafoods is an excellent low-calorie, high-protein that promotes good heart
health. It is also how in saturated fat, rich in vitamins and minerals, low in sodium and
relatively easy to digest. If a child has an allergy to seafoods, alternative foods like
Flaxseeds which can be mixed in with many different types of foods: from homemade
vegetable burgers or falafel burgers, to traditional meatloaf or in baked goods. Nutritional
management of food allergy requires careful planning to ensure that the nutrients inherent
in the eliminated foods are adequately replaced.
Degree of Malnutrition. Figure 12 presents the degree of malnutrition of the
respondents and it based from their body Mass Index (BMI). Out of 119 respondents,
either in-school or out-school, 85 percent are normal which revealed the largest number
of degree of malnutrition of the respondents; then 12 percent of the respondents are in
severely underweight state of nutrition. Lastly, three percent are underweight.
This illustrates that most of the respondents are normal in the degree of nutrition. It
is expected since even though 61 percent respondents’ family has the lowest family
monthly income this could affect in a way that with this small amount of income it might
be a chance to spend their budget to needs rather than wants. Therefore, through their
needs which is the foods that their child deserved they prefer to budget their money to
different vegetables for them to have a healthy body.
Furthermore, based form the result of the grade level in school, most of the
respondents belong to Grade one, wherein their level of understanding on the importance
52
of nutrition, the right amount of food intake and proper eating habits is depends on the
care of their parents on how to handle and maintain their child healthy body to avoid or to
prevent different diseases.
12%
3%
Normal
Underweight
Severely underweight
85%
Figure 12. Distribution of Respondents According to Degree of Malnutrition
Conclusion
This study result emphasizes that majority of the respondents’ Parents received a
monthly income of Php 9,520 and below. And may or may not be able to afford
necessary to improve the nutritional status of their children.
Recommendation
May provide programs and projects that offer social support to low income
parents. These can involve financial support, access to affordable housing, and healthcare
services. Financial support programs already in place for low income parents may be
53
strengthened by community resources and service focused at enhancing their overall
well-being. Another, consider plant-based proteins, these options are generally less
expensive than meat and still provide essential nutrients. Also, plan meals in advance to
ensure a balance diet and make the most of the available resources. Create a weekly menu
and shopping list based on affordable, nutritious ingredients. Cook at home. Preparing
meals at home is generally more cost-effective than eating out or relying on processed
food. Involve your children in meal preparation, as it can help them develop healthy
eating habits and increase their interest in nutritious foods.
2. Food Preferences of the Respondents
The following data provides information on the different food preferences of
children ages 6-12 during their regular meals. This are presented in terms of food
preferences during breakfast, lunch, and supper; and is divided into foods and drinks. The
number of glasses of water intake and food preference during desserts was also included.
a. Breakfast. Table 1 presents the distribution of the data on food preferences of
the respondents during breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Human
body needs a healthy breakfast packed full of vitamins and nutrients at the same time as
also providing energy and fuel for the brain.
FOOD PREFERENCES N % Rank

54
Foods
Rice 87 73 1
Vegetables 15 13 6
Fish 52 44 2
Processed Food 48 40 3
Meat 26 22 4
Fruits 23 19 5
Drinks
Water 89 75 1
Coffee-milk 58 49 2
Coffee 27 22 4
Juice 18 15 5
Milk 31 26 3
Table 1. Distribution of Respondents on Food Preferences during Breakfast
The table shows the preferred foods and drinks of the respondents. It clearly
shows that in terms of food preferences rice ranked 1st as the most preferred food of the
respondents, which comprises of 73 percent of the total number of respondents. Next is
Fish which ranked number two with 44 percent.
Other most favored foods are as follows: Processed Foods with 40 percent; meat
with 22 percent; followed by Fruits with 22 percent; and lastly vegetables with a percent
of 13.
55
In term of drink preferences, Water got the highest percentage of 75 percent
followed by coffee-milk with 49 percent; milk alone with 26 percent; coffee with 22
percent; and lastly, juice with fifteen percent.
Rice or kanin is the most favored food during breakfast because it is easily
bought, affordable and is the main energy-giving dish eaten by Filipino people. Rice is a
staple food for Filipinos. Next is Fish, since the locale of the study is situated near at the
fishpond thus this is where they get their source of food. Processed foods come next and
it is because of its availability since the locale of the study is situated near the market.
The least preferred foods of the respondents are vegetables these foods are readily
available; children with in these ages lack the interest in eating foods which are always
prepared at home.
Water is the most preferred drink during breakfast since drinking plenty of water
gets a lot of health benefits and it is the most common type of drink during breakfast
since the respondents are still young to drink other than any drinks during this meal. It
was followed by Coffee-milk since the growth and development of children in these ages
are slow, they needed milk, which contains calcium, in the development of bones.
However, the respondents preferred to drink milk with coffee, since coffee is also one of
the common drink of all Filipinos and even children can already drink this type of drink
with the combination of milk.

56
b. Lunch. Children’s bodies are in a constant state of growing. Every child’s
body is requiring a steady stream of nutrients and calories to keep growing. Children
especially school-age who have a nutritious diet grows more and reaches their physical
potential. Lunch should make up 1/3 of the calories and nutrients that they require.
The distribution of the data on food preferences of the respondents’ during lunch
is shown in Table 2. It clearly shows that out of 119 respondents, 76 percent prefers rice
as their food it is followed by Fish with 56 percent. Other preferred foods are as follows:
Processed foods with 25 percent; followed by meat with 20 percent. The least preferred
food during lunch are vegetables and fruits with the same 19 percent. In terms of drink
Preferences, the most preferred drink is water. Followed by Juice with 42 percent; soft
drinks with 25 percent; and Milk with 21 percent.
Based from the provided data, it shows that rice is the most preferred food and
water is the most preferred drink during lunch. Fish also got a high percentage. Since rice
is the staple food of more than half of the world populations including the Philippines,
this is also an excellent food to help keep our body healthy because it is rich in
carbohydrates; water can hydrate the children; and fish is a good source of protein and it
is easily accessible for them because they are living near the fishpond and the town’s
market. These kinds of food can make them healthy and insures a better physical growth
outcome however if foods eaten in this meal are very limited and consistently eats these
foods, not enough nutrients will be fulfilled by their body.

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Foods
Rice 90 76 1
Vegetables 23 19 5.5
Fish 66 56 2
Meat 24 20 4
Fruits 23 19 5.5
Drinks
Water 89 75 1
Softdrinks 30 25 3
Juices/Palamig 50 42 2
Milk 25 21 4
Table 2. Distribution of Respondents on Food Preferences during Lunch
c. Supper. The distribution of the data on food preferences of the respondents’
during supper is shown in Table 3. It clearly shows that out of 119 respondents, 90
percent prefers rice for their food. It is followed by fish with 45 percent and vegetables
with 35 percent. Other favored foods are meat with 28 percent; Processed foods with 21
percent; fruits ranked last with 19 percent.
In terms of drink preferences during supper 83 percent of the respondents prefer
water. It is followed by juice with 35 percent, milk with 21 percent and lastly soft drink
with 19 percent of the respondents.

58
Based from the data obtained, majority of the respondents preferred rice during
breakfast, lunch, and supper. The Philippines is considered as one of the Asian countries
that has a rich supply of rice. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Filipino people consider rice
as the main food serve in their table. This is followed by water and followed by fish.

Foods
Rice 90 76 1
Vegetables 42 35 3
Fish 53 45 2
Meat 33 28 4
Fruits 22 19 6
Drinks
Water 99 83 1
Softdrinks 23 19 3
Juices/Palamig 42 35 2
Milk 25 21 4
Table 3. Distribution of Respondents on Food Preferences during Supper
d. Number of Glasses of Water Intake. Drinking water is important in
children’s daily life, as it contributes to cover their daily water requirements, estimated at
8 glasses of water per day. It is important to get enough fluids on a daily basis because all
59
of the body’s organs (heart, lungs, brain, kidneys, etc.) need to be sufficiently hydrated in
order to function properly. The distribution of the data on the number of glasses of the
respondents’ water intake is shown in Table 4. It clearly shows that out of 119
respondents, 21 percent prefers to drink three glasses of water a day. Followed by four
glasses of water with 19 percent, six and eight glasses with ten percent, two glasses with
nine percent, and then followed by five and nine glasses with the same percentage of 8
percent, and the least number of glasses of water intake is eleven glasses with 1 percent.
Table 4. Distribution of Respondents on the Number of Glasses of Water Intake

No. of glasses of water N %
1 2 2
2 11 9
3 25 21
4 23 19
5 9 8
6 12 10
7 6 5
8 12 10
9 9 8
10 5 4
11 1 1
12 4 3
Based from the provided data, it shows that most of the respondents’ drink three
glasses of water a day because children considering their age doesn’t have yet enough
idea on the importance of a well-hydrated body thus they prefer more those drinks which
are palatable.
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e. Dessert. Table 5 shows the distribution of the data on food preferences of the
respondents during dessert. Out of 119 respondents, 97 percent prefers banana for their
dessert. Followed by Mango with 43 percent, bokayo with 40 percent, candy with 34
percent, chocolate with 32 percent, and lastly star apple with 22 percent.
Based from the data obtained it shows that majority of the respondents preferred
Banana and Mango for their dessert because of its availability since they are situated near
the town’s market and is affordable. Banana is the most preferred dessert, it is known for
its high in soluble fiber content which helps stop constipation and helps to restore and
maintain regular bowel function.
DESSERTS N % Rank
Banana 109 97 1
Bokayo 45 40 3
Candy 38 34 4
Mango 49 43 2
Star apple 25 22 6
Chocolate 36 32 5
Table 5. Distribution of Respondents on food Preferences during Desserts
Conclusion
61
Based from the data obtained, most of the respondents’ drink three glasses of
water a day which can lead to a dehydration. Wherein proper hydration is important for
maintaining optimal physical performance, including endurance, coordination, and
concentration. Inadequate water intake can negatively affect a child’s ability to engage in
physical activities, sports, and academic performance.
Recommendation
Set a good example. Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits when they
see their parents or guardian practicing them. Make sure you’re modeling good hydration
habits by drinking water regularly throughout the day. Another, make water easily
accessible ensure that clean and fresh drinking water is readily available to children at
home. Educate children about the benefits, explain to them why drinking enough water is
important for their health. teach them about the functions water serves in the body, such
as keeping them hydrated, supporting their physical and mental performance, and
maintaining overall well-being.
3. Eating Habits of the Respondents
In eating habits, there are three verbal interpretations as presented on Chapter III
namely ALWAYS, SOMETIMES and NEVER. As shown in the table 6, the verbal
interpretation “ALWAYS” got the following questions: “Do you eat lunch every day”
which ranked first with the highest weighted mean of 2.94, followed by “Do you eat
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supper or dinner everyday” with a weighted mean of 2.89, “Do you eat breakfast every
day” with a weighted mean of 2.84, then “Do you was hands after eating” with a
weighted mean of 2.77, “Do you eat snacks everyday” with a weighted mean of 2.73,
“Do you wash your hands before eating” with a weighted mean of 2.71, “In each day, do
you eat meals more than 3 times” with a weighted mean of 2.65, then “Do you eat
breakfast/lunch/supper or dinner together with your family” with a weighted mean of
2.61.
Based from the provided data, “Do you eat lunch every day” has the highest
ranked because lunch is the meal in between the day wherein activities are wholly spent.
Most kids don’t get breakfast or dinner or may not have snacks hence; this is the meal
time where they can easily feel hungry. “Do you eat supper or dinner every day” ranked
number two in the category because children at this time eat dinner together with their
families moreover it provides opportunity to the family to bond. This is followed by the
question “Do you eat breakfast every day”, everyone should eat breakfast to keep the
body fueled up and it’s especially important that kids eat breakfast. Children who eat
their breakfast have good performance at school or at any area than those who don’t. On
the other hand, the next interpretation “SOMETIMES” which obtained the following
questions “Do you brush your teeth after eating” with a weighted mean of 2.47, “Do you
eat meals at the right time” with a weighted mean of 2.34, “Do you join in any program
of your barangay like Feeding Program” with a weighted mean of 2.32, “Do you eat
street foods like fishball,

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Eating Habits WM Interpretation Rank
1. Do you eat breakfast every day? 2.84 Always 3
2. Do you eat lunch every day? 2.94 Always 1
3. Do you eat supper or dinner every day? 2.89 Always 2
4. Do you eat snacks every day? 2.75 Always 5
5. In each day, do you eat meals more that 3 times? 2.65 Always 7
6. Do you eat breakfast/lunch/supper or dinner together
with your family? 2.61 Always 8
7. Do you eat meals at the right time? 2.34 Sometimes 10
8. Do you eat fruits every day? 2.16 Sometimes 15
9. Does your family usually eat canned-goods instead of
cooking home-made goods? 2.16 Sometimes 15
10. Do you eat street foods like fishball, barbeque, kikiam,
etc.? 2.27 Sometimes 13
11. Do you drink milk every morning? 2.16 Sometimes 15
12. Do you drink milk before you sleep or going to bed? 1.79 Sometimes 20
13. Do you go to the market with your market to buy 1.99 Sometimes 19
foods?
14. Do you help your mother in preparing foods? 2.12 Sometimes 18
15. Do you help your mother in cleaning the table after you
eat? 2.15 Sometimes 17
16. Do you wash the plates, and other eating utensils after
you eat? 2.28 Sometimes 12
17. Do you wash your hands before eating? 2.71 Always 6
18. Do you wash hands after eating? 2.77 Always 4
19. Do you brush your teeth after eating? 2.47 Sometimes 9
20. Do you watch TV first instead of eating meals at the
right time? 1.73 Sometimes 21.5
21. Do you eat while playing? 1.45 Never 23
22. Do you visit your dentist for dental check-up? 1.73 Sometimes 21.5
23. Do you join in any program of your barangay like
feeding program? 2.32 Sometimes 11
Average Weighted Mean 2.32 Sometimes
Table 6. Eating Habits of Children Ages 6-12
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barbeque, kikiam etc.” with a weighted mean of 2.27, “Do you drink milk before you
sleep or going to bed” with a weighted mean of 2.19. then both “Do you eat fruits
everyday, Does your family usually eat canned-goods instead of cooking home-made
foods & Do you drink milk every morning” has a weighted mean of 2.16, “Do you help
your mother in cleaning the table after you eat” with a weighted mean of 2.15, then “Do
you help your mother in preparing foods” with a weighted mean of 2.12, “Do you go to
the market with your market to buy foods” with a weighted mean of 1.99 and also both
“Do you visit your dentist for dental check-up and Do you watch TV first instead of
eating meals at the right time” have a weighted mean of 1.73.
Based from the data obtained, “Do you brush your teeth after eating” has the
highest ranked, it has been true since there is a difficulty in convincing children to brush
their teeth. “Do you join in any program of your barangay like Feeding Program” ranked
two because majority lacks supervision from their parents to join in feeding program.
This is followed by the question of “Do you eat street foods like fishball, barbeque,
kikiam etc.” ranked third in category because children are the prime consumers for the
fast food sold in the streets. The parents’ monthly income did not influence the children’s
purchasing behavior, but the rhythm or receiving pocket money. Most children were
satisfied with the nutritional and hygienic quality of the food available, but their opinion
of this quality as well as the reasons for buying the food and the prices spent on it
differed considerably from that of their parents.

65
Then the question under eating habits “Do you eat while playing” was interpreted
as “NEVER” which ranked as the lowest weighted mean with 1.45. Although, majority of
the respondents answered NEVER to this question this goes to show that children doesn’t
eat while they are engaged in different physical activities like playing. Eating while
playing is not their eating habits which is a good response since children respect foods
and those who practice this poor eating habit is at risk of choking.
These illustrates that the highest ranked in all questions under eating habits is
“Do you eat lunch everyday”, breakfast might be the most important meal of the day, but
lunch runs a close second. The studies have shown that children who eat a well-balanced
lunch often do better in school and are more alert. The children certainly need refueling
on a regular basis because their stomachs hold a smaller volume than adults at any one
time so they do need to eat regularly. While the question, “Do you eat while playing” as
mentioned above got the lowest weighted mean which presents a good eating habit.
Children of these ages concentrate only on what they are doing; moreover, playing is one
of their leisure activities. Eating while playing is a dangerous kind of practice since a
child is at risk of choking.
Conclusion
Based on the data most of the respondents does not eat at the right time. Skipping
meals or eating at irregular times can negatively affect a child's energy levels and ability
to concentrate. It may result in fatigue, reduced productivity, and poor academic

66
performance. Inconsistent eating patterns can disrupt the digestive process, leading to
digestive discomfort, indigestion, or constipation. It is important to establish regular meal
times and encourage a balanced and nutritious diet.
Recommendation
Every child is unique, and it's essential to tailor strategies to their individual
needs and preferences. Be patient and positive. Changing eating habits takes time and
patience. Avoid pressuring or forcing your child to eat. Instead, provide gentle
encouragement, praise their efforts, and focus on creating a positive association with
meal times. Also, provide a variety of nutritious options, make sure to offer a balanced
diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Plan and
prepare meals together. It is also important to involve the child in meal planning and
preparation. This can increase their interest in food and make them more likely to eat at
designated times. Let them choose healthy options from different food groups and
participate in age-appropriate kitchen tasks.
4. Relationship between Eating Habits and Degree of Malnutrition
The researchers made used of the Kendall’s Coefficient of concordance to
determine the relationship between the eating habits and the degree of malnutrition of the
respondents. Table 7 shows the relationship between the two. Five percent level of
significance was also used. The computed value for coefficient of concordance was 52.80
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which is greater than the tabular value which is 33.92. therefore, the null hypothesis is
rejected, and then there is a significant relationship between the eating habits and the
degree of malnutrition of the respondents.
The data further shows that children ages 6-12 who has good or proper eating
habits has a normal nutritional status. In contrast, children within these ages who have
bad or improper eating habits will definitely those who are malnourished. However,
eating habits alone will not determine the child’s degree of malnutrition. Together with
the identification of the Personal and Nutritional profile and the different food
preferences of each individual, a child’s nutritional status is determined.
Attitudes and behaviors to food and eating are formed early in life but may be
modified. There are so many factors influencing eating habits of children ages 6-12.
Economic status of the family, religions, social attitudes and behaviors, media influence,
personal profile and at the same time personal food preferences are all contributing
factors.
Table 7. Relationship between the Eating Habits and Degree of Malnutrition of the
Respondents
SEVERELY
Eating Habits NORMAL UNDERWEIGHT UNDERWEIGHT
Weighted Interpretatio Weighted Interpretation Weighte Interpretation
Mean n Mean d Mean
1. Do you eat breakfast 3 Always 3 Always 2.82 Always
every day?
2. Do you eat lunch every 3 Always 3 Always 2.93 Always
day?
3. Do you eat supper or 3 Always 3 Always 2.88 Always
dinner every day?
4. Do you eat snacks every 2.75 Always 3 Always 2.76 Always
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day?
5. In each day, do you eat 2.86 Always 2.33 Sometimes 2.64 Always
meals more that 3 times?
6. Do you eat Always
breakfast/lunch/supper or 2.71 Always 2.67 Always 2.6
dinner together with your
family?
7. Do you eat meals at the 2.57 Sometimes 2 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes
right time?
8. Do you eat fruits every 2.29 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes 2.14 Sometimes
day?
9. Does your family usually
eat canned-goods instead of 1.86 Sometimes 2.67 Always 2.17 Sometimes
cooking home-made
goods?
10. Do you eat street foods
like fishball, barbeque, 2.14 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes 2.28 Sometimes
kikiam, etc.?
11. Do you drink milk 2.14 Sometimes 2.67 Always 2.14 Sometimes
every morning?
12. Do you drink milk
before you sleep or going 1.71 Sometimes 2.67 Always 1.77 Sometimes
to bed?
13. Do you go to the
market with your market to 2.14 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes 1.97 Sometimes
buy foods?
14. Do you help your 2 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes 2.12 Sometimes
mother in preparing foods?
15. Do you help your
mother in cleaning the 2.14 Sometimes 2.67 Always 2.13 Sometimes
table after you eat?
16. Do you wash the plates,
and other eating utensils 2.14 Sometimes 3 Always 2.27 Sometimes
after you eat?
17. Do you wash your 2.43 Sometimes 2.67 Always 2.73 Always
hands before eating?
18. Do you wash hands 2.86 Always 3 Always 2.76 Always
after eating?
19. Do you brush your 2.71 Always 2.33 Sometimes 2.46 Sometimes
teeth after eating?
20. Do you watch TV first
instead of eating meals at 1.71 Sometimes 1 Never 1.76 Sometimes
the right time?
21. Do you eat while 1.14 Never 1.67 Sometimes 1.47 Never
playing?
22. Do you visit your 1.71 Sometimes 1.67 Sometimes 1.73 Sometimes
dentist for dental check-up?
23. Do you join in any
program of your barangay 2.29 Sometimes 2.33 Sometimes 2.32 Sometimes
like feeding program?
69
Wc=0.80 X2c=52.80 Tabular Value

At .05=33.92
X2c> X2.05, Ho is rejected
Relationship is significant
Conclusion
There are so many factors influencing eating habits of children ages 6-12, but
behavior and lifestyle are also one of the important factors since eating habits are
influenced by various behavioral and lifestyle factors. Factors such as stress, emotional
eating, sedentary lifestyle, and lack of knowledge about proper nutrition can contribute to
poor eating habits and ultimately affect the degree of malnutrition.
Recommendation
Encourage a diet that includes a balance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean
proteins, and healthy fats. Provide a variety of food options to ensure an adequate intake
of essential nutrients. Moreover, nutrition education is important educating individuals
and families about the importance of proper nutrition and the impact of eating habits on
overall health. Promote healthy eating environments. Create a positive eating
environment by having meals together as a family, avoiding distractions during
mealtimes, and modeling healthy eating behaviors. Small steps towards healthier eating
habits can have a significant impact on overall health and well-being.

70
5. Proposed Plan to improve the Nutritional Status of 6-12 years old children in
San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.
The following plan is useful in assisting the client to improve the nutritional
status of 6-12 years old children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.
Rationale: Nutrition Education, This is one of the principal aims for the
improvement of the nutritional status of children ages 6-12. This is to provide educational
programs in which children within these ages and their parents will be educated with
adequate information, skills and motivation to procure and to consume appropriate diets
needed by the family. This proposed plan provides people with correct information on the
nutritional value of foods, food quality and safety, processing and handling, food
preparation and eating to help them make the best choice of foods for an adequate diet.
Table 8. Proposed plan to improve the Nutritional status of 6-12 years old children
in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur
Areas of Specific Objectives Strategies/ Persona Expected Outcome
Concern Activity involved
1. Nutrition To provide Distribution of School-age The recipients of the
Education educational pamphlets. children, activities gain
programs that Seminars for the Parents, awareness knowledge
increase, within a parents about the Barangay and skills related to:
limited budget, the practice of food Health improved attitudes
likelihood of safety Workers and about healthy eating;
children and at the preparation for Barangay increased knowledge
same time their the child/family Nutrition of healthy food
parents in making to improve the Scholar. choices; improved
healthy food choices nutritional status skill in selection of
and choosing active of their children. healthy foods; and
lifestyles consistent Discussion to the increased awareness
71
with the most recent children about of nutrition education
advice reflected in nutritional opportunities
the the Food Guide education available in the
Pyramid by the through cooking community; using
United States activities. Movie safe food handling
Department of presentation practices, preparation
Agriculture (USDA) related to proper and storage practices;
and the US nutrition to and managing their
Department of children. food resources and
Health and Human use thrifty shopping
Services. practices.
2. To provide a close Weighing and Barangay School-age children
Quarterly monitoring to getting the height Health with their parents are
Nutritional identify the degree of the children Workers and aware of their current
Status and of malnutrition of every 3 months. Barangay nutritional status. The
growth children for further Nutrition barangay health
assessment strategic Scholar workers keep records
and implementation for of the nutritional
monitoring the improvement of status of the children
of children the nutritional status and monitor the
of children. progress and if
possible, detect the
presence of
malnutrition so that
proper interventions
will be implemented.
The barangay
Nutrition Scholar is
able to plan or
organize nutrition
programs for the
children.
3. To strengthen the Update on Barangay Assessment on the
Improveme system of growth guidelines in health nutritional status and
nt on monitoring and growth workers, Growth Monitoring
Growth supervision/monitori monitoring and Barangay coverage are
Monitoring ng and assessment of assessment on Nutrition improved thus further
and nutritional status of nutritional status Scholar, implementation of
Assessmen children; To through seminars, Rural Health strategies to lessen
t of the improve the skills workshops and Unit workers malnutrition will be
Nutritional and knowledge trainings of the effective.
status of regarding growth different health
72
children monitoring and workers.
nutrition counseling
among health
workers.
4. Efficient To improve Promote kitchen Parents, Parents and Health
Food nutritious food gardening, Barangay care workers are able
Production production at improvement of Health to identify nutritious
household at agricultural skills Workers, foods that can be
household level and and management Barangay prepared without
to help parents in preparing Nutrition consuming expensive
identify the foods which are Scholar, ingredients for food
necessary or affordable or Department preparation. The
appropriate costless yet of Department of
nutritious food for nutritious Agriculture Agriculture are able
children within through seminars, to improve their
financial capability trainings and strategies and can
workshop in further implement
collaboration other measures that
with the can help improve the
agricultural nutrition of children.
workers.
5. Monitor To continue and to Thru the Parents, The Barangay Health
the promote the evaluation or BHW Workers with the
continuanc importance of outcome of help of the parents
e of the nutrition in order to strategies or continue to
strategies improve the activities implement the
being nutritional status of implemented and activities that aim to
implement children. with the future eradicate or lessen
ed researches related the incidence of
to this study. malnutrition in their
community.
Conclusion
Teaching the importance of a balanced diet, portion control, and the benefits of
consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can empower families to
make healthier food choices. Ensuring access to affordable, nutritious food is vital for
improving the nutritional status of children. This can be achieved through initiatives such
73
as community gardens, farmers' markets, or partnering with local food suppliers to
provide fresh and healthy food options.
Recommendation
Collaboration with healthcare professionals. Collaborating with healthcare
professionals, such as pediatricians and dietitians, can provide expert guidance and
support. They can conduct nutritional assessments, offer individualized advice, and
monitor the progress of children with specific nutritional needs. We can improve the
nutritional status of individuals aged 6 to 12 by putting these measures into practice. A
lifetime of healthy eating habits and general wellbeing can be established by educating
children and their families, providing access to wholesome food, and building an
environment that is nurturing.

74
CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter presents a brief statement of the important points of this study. It
also includes the concise explanation of the findings and conclusion as well the
recommendation.
Summary
This study was an attempt to determine the nutritional status 6-12 years old
children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. Specifically, it sought to answer the following
questions:
1. What is the profile of the respondents in terms of:
A. Personal
a. Age
b. Sex
c. Grade level
d. Number of siblings
e. Ordinal Position
f. Monthly family income
B. Nutritional Profile
a. Weight
b. Height
c. Food Allergies
75
d. Degree of Malnutrition
2. What are the food preferences of the children ages 6-12 during their regular meals?
a. Breakfast
b. Lunch
c. Supper
3. What are the eating habits of the children?
4. Is there a significant relationship between eating habits and degree of malnutrition?
5. What plan can be proposed to improve the nutritional status of children ages 6-12
residing at San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur?
This study was guided by the assumptions that the profile of the respondents
varies depending on each personal and nutritional profile, each respondent has varying
food preferences depending on the regular meals such as breakfast, lunch and supper, that
each respondent has a particular difference on eating habits and that there is a plans that
can help in the improvement of the nutritional status of 6-12 years old children in San
Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur. The researchers hypothesized that there is no significant
relationship between eating habits and degree of malnutrition.
The descriptive survey method of research utilizing a questionnaire as the main
data gathering tool was used in this study. 119 out of 171 children ages 6-12 residing at
San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur, were made as respondents for this study employing the
stratified random sampling. The data obtained were tallied, tabulated and analyzed using
76
percentage technique, weighted mean, a three-point scale, kendall’s Coefficient of
Coordinance and Body Mass Index (BMI). The outcome served as the basis for
interpreting data that provided the answers to the specific problems.
Findings
The following findings were drawn from the study.
1.) The profile of the respondents in term of:
A. Personal Profile
Age. Out of 119 respondents, 20 percent belongs to eight years of age and only
nine percent are 12 years old.
Sex. Out of 119 respondents, 56 percent are male and 44 percent are female.
Status of Schooling. Of the total respondents, 94 percent are In-school while six
percent are Out-of-school.
Grade level in School. Out of 112 respondents, 29 percent are in Grade One; and
only five percent claimed both Grade Five and Six.
Number of Siblings. Out of 119 respondents, 57 percent belongs to the range of
0-4 siblings and 43 percent of them belong to 5-10 siblings.
Ordinal Position. Out of 119 respondents, 48 percent of them are middle child
according to the birth order of the respondents; and only three percent are the only child
in the family.
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Family Monthly Income. Out of 119 respondents, 61 percent received a monthly
income of Php 9,520 and below and three percent received a monthly income of at least
Php 190,400.
B. Nutritional Profile
Presence of Allergies. Out of 119 respondents, 85 percent has no allergies and 15
percent has allergies.
Food Allergies. Of the 18 respondents who have allergies, seven or 39 percent
have an allergy on eggs and one or 5 percent have an allergy on meat.
Degree of Malnutrition. Out of 119 respondents, either in-school or out-of-
school, 85 percent are normal which revealed the largest number of degree of
malnutrition of the respondents and then three percent are underweight.
2.) Food Preferences:
Breakfast. Rice ranked 1st as the most preferred food of the respondents, which
comprises of 73 percent of the total number of respondents; then vegetables with thirteen
percent. In terms of drink preferences, water got the highest percentage with 75 percent
and comes last was juice with fifteen percent.
Lunch. Out of 119 respondents, 76 percent prefers rice as their food and the least
preferred food during lunch are vegetables and fruits with the same 19 percent. In drink
preferences 75 percent prefers water and the least preferred drink was milk.
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Supper. Of the total respondents, 90 percent prefers rice for their food and fruits
ranked last with nineteen percent. Eighty three percent prefers water for their drinks and
soft drinks comes last with 19 percent.
Number of Glasses of Water Intake. Out of 119 respondents, 21 percent prefers
to drink three glasses of water a day and eleven glasses of water with one percent.
Desserts. Out of 119 respondents, 97 percent prefers banana for their dessert and
last was Star apple with 22 percent.
3.) Eating Habits. The verbal interpretation “ALWAYS” got by the following questions:
“Do you eat lunch every day” which ranked first with the highest weighted mean of 2.94
and rank last under this category is “Do you eat breakfast/lunch/supper or dinner together
with your family” with a weighted mean of 2.61.
On the other hand, the next interpretation “SOMETIME” which obtained the
following questions “Do you brush your teeth after eating” with a weighted mean of 2.47,
and lastly both “Do you visit your dentist for dental check-up” and “Do you watch TV
first instead of eating meals at the right time” have a weighted mean of 1.73.
Then the question under eating habits “Do you eat while playing” was interpreted
as “NEVER” which ranked as the lowest weighted mean with 1.45.

79
4.) Relationship between Eating Habits and Degree of Malnutrition
The researchers made used of the Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance to
determine the relationship between the eating habits and the degree of malnutrition of the
respondents. The computed value s greater than the tabular value. Thus, the null
hypothesis is rejected, therefore there is a significant relationship between the eating
habits and the degree of malnutrition of the respondents.
5.) There is a plan that can be proposed to improved the nutritional status of 6-12 years
old children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.
Conclusions
With the context of the findings the following conclusions were drawn:
1.) In their personal profile, majority of the respondents are Male, In-school,
under 0-4 ranges of siblings and with a monthly family income of Php 9,520 and below.
Most of them belong to 8 years old, belong Grade I and a middle child.
As for their nutritional profile majority of the respondents have no allergies
however for those who have food allergies, egg has the highest number of percentage.
Using the BMI, it was also found that majority of the respondents are Normal.
2.) The food and drink preferences of children ages 6-12 during breakfast are rice
and water; and for lunch and supper, they eat rice and fish and drink water.
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3.) Majority of the respondents revealed that they practice proper eating habits, as
they eat their regular meals such as breakfast, lunch and supper.
4.) Relationship between the Eating Habits and Degree of Malnutrition
There is a significant relationship between eating habits and the degree of
malnutrition
5.) The proposed plan can improve the nutritional status of 6-12 years old
children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.
Recommendations
Based from the findings and conclusions of this study the following
recommendations are imposed.
1. Children either in-school or Out-of-School may be educated with nutritious
foods to eat and the proper eating habits together with the help of their parents, family
members and the barangay health workers.
2. Parents may cooperatively work with the barangay health workers in the
improvement of the nutritional status of the children such as the preparation of nutritious
foods especially to those children with food allergies. Hence, these foods may also be
affordable yet healthy for the children. Parents may also practice proper preparation of
food safety in preparing foods for the children.

81
3. The barangay health workers may keep a record of the physical and nutritional
status ages 6-12 to have a comparative baseline data for future assessment, evaluation and
for other health programs. They may conduct a nutrition education in their barangay to
enhance children and parents knowledge of nutrition, healthy diet and physical activity.
4. Health awareness to the children may be strengthened through health
information dissemination such as seminars attended by their parents.
5. The Local Government unit should initiate and provide different activities and
or programs which will improve the nutritional status of the children and if possible to
lessen if not totally eradicate the presence of malnutrition.
6. Future researchers should evaluate or assess the nutritional status of 6-12 years
old children in San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur by having follow-up study for the
promotion and improvement of nutrition.

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Republic of the Philippines

CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

proper use of all important nutrients.

ensure growth, maintenance, and specific functions.” The effects of changing

environment conditions in increasing malnutrition are multifactorial. Poor environmental

environmental deficiencies in micronutrients. Overpopulation, more commonly seen in

intake of foods of poor nutritional quality. Conversely, the effects of malnutrition on

social development (Shaschidhar, 2021).

old, there were 25.5% who are underweight (FNRI-DOST, 2021).

Objectives of the Study

like; breakfast, lunch, and supper.

3. To know the eating habits of the children?

San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur

Assumptions of the Study

The study was based on the following assumptions that:

2. The respondents’ food preferences vary depending on their regular meals.

3. Each child has different eating habits.

children ages 6-12 residing at San Jose, Baao, Camarines Sur.

The researchers hypothesized that there is no significant relationship between

eating habits and degree of malnutrition.

Significance of the Study

malnutrition and starvation.

the nutritional state of their children in becoming a healthy individual.

status of the family especially the children.

meeting as well as programs in controlling malnutrition of children like feeding program.

nutritional status of children.

them to have researchers and follow up actions in eliminating malnutrition of Filipino

children towards a better life.

Scope and limitation of the study

researchers. The study began December 2022 to April 2023.

defined conceptually or operationally.

Food allergies. Are an abnormal response to a food triggered by a man’s immune

system (MedlinePLUS, 2022).

Food preferences. Are the choses or selected foods to be eaten by an individual.

eating, etc. based on your body's needs and desires.

Nutritional Status. Is an individual’s condition determined through diet by body

rise to a downward force, the heaviness of a person or a thing. (Google-dictionary, 2021)

the course of their work.

Review of Related Literature and Studies

related to the present study.

According to the book of Lippincott-Williams and Wilkins (2019), a healthy and

there’s overnutrition (supply exceeds demand) or undernutrition (demand exceeds

requirements of a balanced diet are primary activities in planning patient care.

Malnutrition has been defined as “a pathological state resulting from a relative or

undernutrition, overnutrition, imbalance and specific deficiency.

people- 15 percent of the World’s population, excluding china-who are malnourished, of

of the world nutritional problems are somewhat different. Overnutrition is encountered

disorders of liver and gallbladder.

sector. These are the nutritional surveillance, nutritional rehabilitation, nutrition

simultaneously at various level family, community, national and international levels. It

requires a coordinated approach of many disciplines-nutrition, food technology, health

administration, health education, marketing programme, etc. In short, it calls for a

comprehensive programme of social programme of the entire country.

long an individual’s later years are.

Television also promotes snacking behavior. Although snacks are an important

those who watch 2 hours a day.

age groups 1 to 6, 7 to 12 and beyond.

The integrated Regional Information Networks (IRIN) (2020), and award-

as those aged 6-10.

distribution among schoolchildren has a direct effect on the campaign to reduce

diets of young children may be deficient in essential vitamins and minerals.

will help them function better as the grow up.