Impacts of Aquaponics Gardening on Weight Management of Undernourished Children

Mikylla Lorraine Cruz; Regie P. De Jesus; Airone A. Arcojo; Jack Ivan A. Hernandez; Peterson J. Yanson; Luther S. Siosana

doi:10.58545/jrcnp.v3i2.564

Authors

Mikylla Lorraine Cruz College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines
Regie P. De Jesus College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8416-9190
Airone A. Arcojo College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines
Jack Ivan A. Hernandez College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines
Peterson J. Yanson College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines
Luther S. Siosana College of Health Sciences, Dr. Yanga’s College, Inc. Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58545/jrcnp.v3i2.564

Abstract

Background: Malnutrition remains a major concern among children in disadvantaged communities in the Philippines. This study examined the effectiveness of aquaponics gardening in supporting weight management and promoting healthy eating among undernourished children. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test design was implemented with 30 children aged 6–12 years in Bocaue, Bulacan, identified as undernourished (BMI-for-age < 5th percentile). Over eight weeks, subjects engaged in aquaponics gardening, nutrition education, and meal preparation using harvested produce. Data were gathered through BMI measurements, a validated Likert-scale survey, and 24-hour dietary recalls. Paired t-tests evaluated pre- and post-intervention changes. Results: Significant improvements were observed in weight (23.4 kg to 25.1 kg) and BMI (13.5 to 14.3) (p < 0.001). Subjects also demonstrated greater nutritional knowledge, more positive perceptions of vegetables, and healthier eating behaviors, including increased vegetable intake. Conclusion: Aquaponics gardening is a feasible, sustainable approach to improving child nutrition and dietary habits. Its hands-on design fosters learning and self-efficacy, supporting long-term food security and health promotion in low-resource communities.

Keywords:

Aquaponics, Children, Experiential learning, Malnutrition, Weight management

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