Nutrigenomic Engineering in Children Under Five With Infectious Diseases After the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

It is estimated that about 3 million children worldwide each year exhibit xerophthalmia, i.e. they are clinically deficient in vitamin A and are at risk of blindness. In addition, about 250 million more children under five are estimated to have sub-clinical vitamin A deficiency and are at risk of severe morbidity and premature death. Zinc is a vital element for the synthesis of DNA and RNA. This mineral is needed in the formation of eye tissue so that it can remain seeing in the dark, the formation of white blood cells in the immune system, gastric function, skin health, growth and function of the reproductive system, fetal growth and the central nervous system. Zinc also helps in the activity of immune function.  The purpose of this study is to determine nutrigenomic intake (Vit A, Zinc, Fe iron) in toddlers with infectious diseases during the pandemic. Research Method using Pre n post test Research Design. One month before the intervention, blood sampling levels of Vitamin A, Zinc, and Iron (Fe) were asked about infectious diseases. (How many times in the last 1 month). One month after the intervention, blood samples were taken again, levels of Vitamin A, Zinc, and Iron (Fe) were asked again infectious diseases.  The results of the analysis showed that vitamin A intake was low compared to the RDA of 4.39 (CI 1.62-4.89) times in children whose parents had low socioeconomic status, while according to age 1.01 (CI 0.98-1.18) times. While iron intake is lower than the RDA of 2.52 (CI_), according to age 1.07 (CI 1.01-1.14). Zinc intake was lower than the RDA of 91.6 (CI 0.11-756.3). Food intake of zinc, iron and vitamin A for children 24-60 months in Indonesia is still unable to meet the needs and is far below the Daily Value (RDA).