Le bateau de Thésée

       As the name suggests, iron deficiency anemia is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough iron. Before discussing the appropriate diet for anemia, let’s first talk a bit about the mineral iron and the symptoms of this condition. Iron and Hemoglobin Iron is found in cells that carry hemoglobin. In an adult human body, there are approximately 3-5 grams of iron, and more than half of this amount is found in the blood. Iron does not move freely in the blood or body; it binds to different proteins and takes on various roles. One of its vital functions is transporting oxygen from the lungs to other tissues in the body and returning carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs. It also plays a role in synthesizing enzymes needed to produce energy for our bodies. Moreover, it is an essential part of the system that eliminates harmful substances and medications from the body. Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia Due to insufficient oxygen transport to ti...

     Hemochromatosis is a metabolic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption due to a deficiency in Hepcidin, which is particularly common in Northern Europe and worldwide. It results from mutations in the genes located on chromosome 6.      Hepcidin is a hormone synthesized in the liver that plays a role in iron metabolism. Its function is to regulate iron stores by inhibiting the absorption of iron in the intestinal mucosal cells. Therefore, in the absence of Hepcidin, iron is excessively absorbed and accumulates in the body. The accumulated iron can create toxic effects in the body. The main principle in the nutritional treatment of this disease is to control portion sizes of iron-rich foods and create a nutrition plan by combining them with other nutrients that reduce iron absorption. Both in terms of quantity and ease of absorption, the best source of iron is meat. Red meat contains more iron than white meat. Additionally, foods rich in i...

The school period is a time of physical growth and change, where children step out of the secure environment of their families and engage with the broader societal culture. It is a phase of identity formation, shaping their future adult lives. During this period, which covers ages 6 to 12, the foundations of lifelong habits are established. Growth in this stage is slow and continuous, but it accelerates during adolescence. A significant amount of energy, as well as proteins, vitamins, and minerals, are required for this growth process. The goal of child nutrition is to ensure normal and healthy growth and development while fostering healthy eating habits. The most common nutritional disorders seen in this age group include underweight or obesity, iron deficiency anemia, vitamin and iodine deficiencies, and dental cavities. Unfortunately, obesity is often accompanied by serious health problems such as metabolic syndrome. A child's eating habits are primarily influenced by their fami...

       I would like to begin by recalling the four unchanging principles of contemporary medical ethics, dating back to Hippocrates: autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice. In this article, the focus will primarily be on the principle of non-maleficence . Prophylaxis , or preventive healthcare services, aims to prevent illnesses before they occur by addressing the underlying causes. It is, therefore, the most valuable form of treatment. Identifying individuals' risks, implementing preventive measures tailored to their living conditions and physiological state, and raising awareness are of vital importance. These responsibilities lie with healthcare professionals and parents alike. Creating awareness is the first step in preventive care. While raising awareness in adults is crucial, driving behavioral changes can be challenging due to years of harmful habits. This is why childhood is such a pivotal period for education and reinforcement. However, alongsi...

Recently, I watched Apple Cider Vinegar  on Netflix, and it definitely deserves a post. It tells the true story of an Australian influencer who falsely claimed to have cured her cancer with food. It’s a shocking and eye-opening story. I believe psychologists should analyze this series, but as a dietitian, I also have something to say. An influencer promoting various products and approaches may not seem very dangerous at first. However, what if they claim to have treated a serious disease like cancer with food or alternative methods? Wouldn't that lead many people to abandon their treatments or encourage the use of products that could negatively impact their health? Isn't this a public health issue? Without giving too much away, we witness how people can deceive themselves and others about health issues, exploiting the hopes of millions and even causing harm—intentionally or unintentionally—through misinformation. As I always say and believe, prophylaxis is superior to all . Pr...

     In January last year, I participated in a volunteer project in Calais, a city in northern France. The project, facilitated by the organization, aimed to help irregular migrants trying to reach the UK by maintaining their family connections through a phone service while also providing support for their medical and humanitarian needs. Since this experience was emotionally challenging for me, I needed a long time to process and reflect before writing about it in detail.      The first thing I noticed upon arriving in the city was the abundance of barbed wire everywhere. I do not wish to cast blame on the local population, but I was told by the project coordinator that these barriers were primarily intended to prevent irregular migrants from setting up tent camps randomly. This city is already internationally known for the "Jungle," an informal settlement of makeshift shelters and tents where many migrants live—often referred to as the  Jungle of Cala...