Arnold Peter Meiklejohn

British physician and nutritionist

Arnold Peter Meiklejohn (1909–1974) was a prominent British physician and nutritionist known for his work in public health and his contributions to the understanding of malnutrition and nutritional deficiency. He played a significant role in the aftermath of World War II, particularly in the liberation and rehabilitation of concentration camp survivors.

Early Life and Education

Arnold Peter Meiklejohn was born in 1909. He pursued his medical education at the University of Edinburgh, where he developed a keen interest in nutrition and public health. His early career was marked by a dedication to understanding the impact of nutrition on health, which would later define his professional contributions.

Career

Meiklejohn's career was distinguished by his work in the field of nutrition. He was particularly focused on the effects of malnutrition and the importance of adequate nutrition in maintaining health. His expertise was recognized during World War II, when he was called upon to assist in the rehabilitation of individuals who had suffered from severe malnutrition.

World War II and Bergen-Belsen

The Liberation of Bergen-Belsen Concentration Camp, May 1945

One of Meiklejohn's most notable contributions came during the liberation of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in 1945. As a member of the British Army's medical team, he was instrumental in addressing the severe malnutrition and health crises faced by the camp's survivors. His work involved the implementation of nutritional rehabilitation programs, which were critical in saving the lives of many who had suffered from prolonged starvation.

Meiklejohn's approach to treating malnutrition was innovative for its time. He emphasized the need for a gradual reintroduction of nutrients to avoid refeeding syndrome, a potentially fatal condition that can occur when feeding is restarted in severely malnourished individuals.

Post-War Contributions

After the war, Meiklejohn continued to work in the field of public health and nutrition. He was involved in various initiatives aimed at improving nutritional standards and addressing public health challenges. His work laid the foundation for modern approaches to nutritional rehabilitation and public health nutrition.

Legacy

Arnold Peter Meiklejohn's contributions to the field of nutrition and public health have had a lasting impact. His work during the liberation of Bergen-Belsen is particularly remembered for its humanitarian significance and its influence on the development of nutritional rehabilitation protocols.

Related Pages

• Malnutrition
• Nutritional deficiency
• Bergen-Belsen concentration camp
• Refeeding syndrome