The Struggle with Nutritional Care in 1945

In 1945, the blockade of the Netherlands led to extreme hunger and desperation, particularly affecting children in hospitals like the Juliana Children's Hospital. The hospital director, Dr. Wilhelm Dicke, faced the dire situation of feeding young patients, even resorting to using tulip bulbs as a last resort due to their potential toxicity. Surprisingly, amid the scarcity, some children, particularly those suffering from G. Herter syndrome, began to thrive despite the lack of traditional food sources. This unexpected improvement sparked curiosity about the relationship between diet and recovery, leading to a deeper investigation into nutritional needs.