Abstract:Background: The number of orphans in the Philippines continues to rise due to the impacts of COVID-19, natural disasters, teenage pregnancy, lack of education, and poverty. Preschool-aged children already face undernutrition, with cases of underweight, stunting, and wasting. Orphans are especially vulnerable due to the absence of individualized family-based care. However, their nutritional health remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the nutritional status of preschool-aged orphans and the nutritional value of meals served in selected institutional care facilities (ICFs) in Metropolitan Manila, as well as to identify factors influencing these outcomes. Methods: An explanatory sequential research design was used. Thirty-two (32) children from four (4) ICFs were selected through purposive sampling. Nutritional status was assessed using Weight-for-Age Z-scores (WFA). Dietary intake was measured using a 3-day non-consecutive weighed food recall and analyzed for macro- and micronutrient content. Dietary diversity scores (DDS) were calculated. Qualitative data were collected from caregiver interviews and analyzed thematically. Results: Thirty-one percent (n=10) of children were underweight. Despite exceeding the recommended total energy intake (TEI), DDS were below the recommended threshold. Diets were high in ultra-processed foods, mainly from donations. DDS revealed low intake of dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and organ meats. No significant relationships were found between TEI, DDS, and WFA. TEI had a weak positive correlation with WFA, while DDS showed no correlation. Thematic analysis highlighted the need for registered nutritionist-dietitians (RNDs), structured meal planning, healthier food donations, and enhanced nutrition education for caregivers. Conclusion: Preschool-aged orphans in ICFs experience excessive energy intake but inadequate dietary diversity. Interventions should improve food quality, assign qualified personnel, and increase caregiver nutrition knowledge.
Keywords: Global Health Nutrition, Preschool-aged orphans, institutional care, nutritional status, dietary intake, dietary diversity, nutrition education
