Putting the 'treat' into Treatment: Innovative New Fortified Ice Cream Range is Set to Improve Recovery for Patients

My Doctor's Recipe® has launched an exciting new product. It's a brand new range of special ice creams fortified with protein and enriched with specially formulated DJK8®; which is a unique blend of minerals and vitamins, specially formulated and designed by Consultant Oncologist Dr Jon Krell, Chef and ice cream Manufacturer Sally Newall, TV Chef Alan Rosenthal and Business Owner Alan Mackenzie, whose personal story inspired the business.

Inspired by Love: Alan Mackenzie's deeply personal quest to transform patient nutrition

My Doctor's Recipe® is much more than just a business venture; it's a deeply personal journey inspired by Alison, the late wife of co-founder Alan. Alison's courageous battle with cancer, illuminated the critical importance of accessible and palatable nutrition during challenging and difficult times.

Alison's struggle with the conventional nutritional supplements available is a poignant reminder of the harsh realities all too often faced by countless individuals in similar circumstances. 

Witnessing Alison's journey firsthand, as she tried to take the ghastly, unpleasant drinks and the difficulty in consumption, compelled Alan to take action to honour Alison's struggles and her memory. Along with his co-founders Dr Jon Krell (who was Alison's consulting doctor) and Chef Alan Rosenthal.

Alan recounts: “The grim reality of choking down unpleasant tasting nutritional drinks is a burden that not only adversely impacts physical health but also takes a toll on the patient's emotional well-being, too. as well. 

"Alison would say to her doctor 'Jon is there nothing else? I try really hard to take these drinks but can't stomach it?' 'Sorry, Alison' was Jon's reply ' we just don't have any alternatives. It's the same for most of my patients, they just can't take these drinks'."

It was during the endless hours when Alan Mackenzie sat patiently at his wife Alison's bedside that he became determined to help improve things for other patients and families, and the idea for My Doctor's Recipe® was born.

Introducing Nutri-Ice Cream®

Designed and approved by doctors, My Doctor's Recipe® Nutri-Ice Cream® comprises a range of high calorie absolutely delicious ice creams that are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, designed to enhance the recovery journey for patients.  

The entire range of Cappuccino, Banana, Vanilla and Chocolate flavours (with Strawberry coming soon) have been made with taste in mind despite being low in sugar and high in protein. For those who need added fibre to support their gastrointestinal function there's also a Plus Fibre range in the same flavours.

Unlocking The Power of Nutrition: My Doctor's Recipe introduces DJK8®

Developed in House by Dr Jon Krell, My Doctor's Recipe® proudly unveils DJK8®, the exclusive and absolutely revolutionary formulation of encapsulated minerals and vitamins. 

Dr Krell says “At My Doctor's Recipe®, we believe true innovation lies in unlocking the power of nutrition. With DJK8® we have achieved exactly that. It's an unfortunate fact that traditional supplements often fall short in delivering nutrients in an effective way and many are lost in digestion. 

"DJK8® changes the game by encapsulating these vital nutrients, preserving their integrity and potency until they reach their destination in the body. Every tub of Nutri-ice cream includes DJK8 ® and because they are meticulously locked in, they don't impact on or alter the delicious flavour of our ice cream.”

Designed in collaboration with a world class nutritional lab and with the stamp of approval from medical professionals, My Doctor's Recipe® is poised to become a genuine game-changer in patient care.

Transforming patients' lives

Unfortunately many patients find it a struggle to cope with traditional nutritional drinks, finding it hard to finish them due to the synthetic taste and their format. 

Chef Rosenthal says: “During my research I learned that it was abundantly clear when I was speaking to healthcare professionals that they all faced poor ingestion rates with the currently available drinks, and that the lack of palatable options, was not only an inconvenience but also a significant barrier to proper nutrition and recovery in patients.”

Co-Founder Dr. Jon Krell, who works with cancer patients battling with nutritional support added: “Good nutritional intake is absolutely vital for patients who are undergoing treatment but eating three meals a day can be a real challenge for some patients, with certain treatments causing food aversions. The modern science of food should match the science of medicine working symbiotically alongside each other."

Testing within hospital settings has proven the need for this innovative product, with patients receiving treatment reporting much needed beneficial weight gain, improved nutritional intake and a greater enjoyment of food at a time in life when they have found eating to be very challenging indeed. 

During trials across London hospitals, Nutri-Ice Cream® really captured the hearts of patients and healthcare professionals alike, earning some heartfelt, rave reviews. 

One patient summed it all up by saying: "At last medicine that's a treat!" This groundbreaking product line is genuinely set to revolutionise patient nutrition.

Delivering on taste

The My Doctor's Recipe® team was fully aware that taste would be paramount and key to ensuring patient compliance and consuming the product. 

Chef Alan Rosenthal pointed out: “Everybody, especially patients, should have access to an enriched, healthy and delicious snack when they need it. 

2Being a patient shouldn't mean that you can't enjoy tasty foods. We're really pleased and absolutely thrilled to see the impact Nutri-Ice Cream® is having on patient nutrition and satisfaction. This is just the beginning of our journey to revolutionise hospital nutrition, and we're excited to be looking forward to developing many more delicious products, to continue making a difference in the lives of patients across the country.”

Each product is meticulously crafted with encapsulated vitamins and minerals, boasting high protein and calorie content to support patients in their recovery journey.

Sally Newall, a partner in the business and the manufacturer of Nutri-Ice Cream® through her business Simply Ice Cream says: “It's been a really great honour to work on developing this range of ice creams over the last year.  Everything we make at Simply Ice Cream is hand made in small batches using the finest of ingredients. We don't allow any artificial colours and preservatives, our ethos has always been to produce great tasting, natural foods and we will obviously apply the same care and dedication to My Doctors Recipe®.” 

The range has undergone rigorous testing and trials to ensure nutrition never compromises taste and vice versa.

Available now

My Doctor's Recipe® Nutri-Ice Cream® and Nutri-Ice Cream Plus Fibre® is launching across London hospitals this month, February and is scheduled for a national roll out over the coming months. It is also available to buy in 100g single servings for home delivery, available to order at this link https://simplyicecream.co.uk/product/my-doctors-recipe-nutri-ice-cream

To learn more about My Doctor's Recipe and its range of fortified ice creams, please visit www.mydoctorsrecipe.com or email them at hello@mydoctorsrecipe.com.

Nourishing the Road to Recovery: Foods, Supplements, Minerals, and Vitamins for Long COVID and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by long COVID and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), the importance of proper nutrition cannot be overstated. 

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to these complex conditions, incorporating specific foods, supplements, minerals, and vitamins into your diet can play a crucial role in supporting your body's recovery journey. 

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key nutrients that have shown promise in combating the symptoms of long COVID and CFS.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in walnuts and flaxseeds, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with long COVID and CFS. Incorporating these foods into your diet can support immune function and reduce inflammation, which are often compromised in these conditions.

Vitamin D:

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of respiratory infections and immune dysfunction, both of which are prevalent in long COVID and CFS. Spending time outdoors in sunlight and consuming vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks can help maintain optimal vitamin D levels. Additionally, supplementation may be necessary, especially for those with limited sun exposure.

Magnesium:

Magnesium plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and muscle function, making it particularly important for individuals experiencing fatigue associated with long COVID and CFS. Foods rich in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Supplementing with magnesium citrate or glycinate may also be beneficial for some individuals, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Vitamin B12:

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and neurological function, and deficiency can contribute to fatigue and cognitive impairment, symptoms commonly experienced in long COVID and CFS. Animal products like meat, fish, and dairy are the best dietary sources of vitamin B12. For vegetarians and vegans, fortified foods or supplements may be necessary to ensure adequate intake.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant and plays a critical role in cellular energy production. Research suggests supplementation with CoQ10 may help alleviate fatigue and improve overall energy levels in individuals with long COVID and CFS. Foods like organ meats, fish, and whole grains contain small amounts of CoQ10, but supplementation may be necessary to achieve therapeutic levels.

Zinc:

Zinc is involved in numerous physiological processes, including immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Some studies have suggested that zinc supplementation may help reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections, which are often exacerbated in long COVID. Foods such as oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, and nuts are excellent sources of zinc.

Antioxidants:

Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, selenium, and glutathione, play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are implicated in the pathogenesis of long COVID and CFS. Colourful fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are rich sources of antioxidants and should be included regularly in the diet.

While there is still much to learn about the optimal nutritional strategies for managing long COVID and chronic fatigue syndrome, incorporating nutrient-rich foods and supplements into your diet can support your body's recovery and help alleviate symptoms. 

It's essential to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a personalized nutrition plan that meets your individual needs and addresses any underlying deficiencies or imbalances. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you can empower yourself on the path to improved health and well-being.

Unveiling the Vitality Within: The Importance of Food Supplements

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, maintaining a well-balanced diet can often be a challenging task. 

Our busy schedules, fast-paced lifestyles, and the convenience of processed foods can sometimes lead to nutritional gaps in our diet. 

This is where food supplements come into play, offering a convenient and effective way to bridge the nutritional divide. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of food supplements and how they can contribute to overall health and well-being.

Nutrient Deficiency in Modern Diets:

In today's world, many individuals struggle to obtain all the essential nutrients their bodies need from diet alone. Processed foods, busy lifestyles, and dietary restrictions can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Food supplements act as a safety net, providing the body with the vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients it may be lacking.

Enhancing Immune Function:

A well-functioning immune system is crucial for overall health. Nutrient-rich supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and zinc, can play a pivotal role in supporting the immune system. Especially during times of stress or illness, supplementing with these nutrients can aid the body's natural defense mechanisms and help maintain optimal immune function.

Supporting Physical Performance:

For individuals engaged in regular physical activity or athletes pushing their limits, food supplements can be instrumental in supporting performance and recovery. Protein supplements, for example, can help repair and build muscle tissue, while electrolyte supplements aid in maintaining proper hydration and supporting nerve function during intense workouts.

Brain Health and Cognitive Function:

Certain supplements are known to support brain health and cognitive function. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are renowned for their role in brain development and function. Additionally, vitamins such as B-complex vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin E play a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health.

Compensating for Dietary Restrictions:

People with dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians and vegans, may find it challenging to obtain certain nutrients solely from plant-based sources. Food supplements can help fill the gaps by providing essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids that may be less abundant in plant-based diets.

Aging Gracefully with Nutrient Support:

As we age, our nutritional needs evolve, and the body may require additional support. Calcium and vitamin D become increasingly important for bone health, while collagen supplements can aid in maintaining skin elasticity. Food supplements tailored to the changing needs of different life stages can contribute to aging gracefully.

In a world where our nutritional needs are often at odds with our lifestyles, food supplements offer a pragmatic solution to support our overall health and well-being. While it's essential to prioritize a balanced diet, incorporating high-quality supplements can act as a valuable complement, ensuring that our bodies receive the nutrients they need to thrive. 

As with any health-related decision, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new supplements into your routine, ensuring that your choices align with your individual health goals and needs.

That's Food and Drink is running a series on food supplements over the next several weeks, please look out for these.

(Image courtesy of Erika Varga from Pixabay)

Tinnitus. Are there foods and supplements that can help?

I suffer from Tinnitus. Probably due to working in a noisy environment when I worked in a foundry as a laboratory/foundry technician back in the 1970s.

At present, there are no drug therapies available, but there are some foods and supplements that are pointed to as being of help to alleviate at least the symptoms of the condition.

One organisation claiming to offer support for people with tinnitus alleges that no foods, vitamins or supplements can help alleviate the symptoms of tinnitus saying "No research has been done to prove that this particular supplement, food or vitamin has any affect on tinnitus." 

Whilst that might be true, I think it's rather strange that the organisation hasn't actually decided to fund any research into these foods, vitamins or supplements by medical research teams. I'm sure hospitals with expertise on tinnitus and supplement or vitamin manufacturers would be more than willing to undertake such research.

Interestingly some qualified Medical Doctors do refer patients with tinnitus to a number of foods, vitamins and supplements which they say can help deal with tinnitus. They don't claim they will act as a cure, but they do point out that they can help alleviate the symptoms at least to an extent and in some people who suffer from tinnitus.

In his highly interesting and very readable blog Neil Sperling MD (who is a specialist in surgery for hearing restoration procedures) points to a number of foods, vitamins and supplements that can offer some relief for tinnitus sufferers:-

Vitamin B12

Bromelain

Potassium

Zinc

Folate

He also points out some foods that you should consider avoiding if you have tinnitus.

You can read his full and very interesting blog post on this subject here:- https://rb.gy/c0lac

There is more evidence on what foods you should consider avoiding here https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/52444-Tinnitus-you-hear-what-you-eat

If you search Amazon you will find a variety of vitamins and supplements and patches that are claimed to be able to treat tinnitus. I am not providing any links to these as I haven't tried them yet so have no idea if they are effective. After I have my appointment with my tinnitus consultant I may well try some of those treatments in the future. 

Some vitamin and supplement providers do sell products that could help tinnitus sufferers so just Google them and see what comes up.

(Image used courtesy of Gerd Altmann from Pixabay)

Top Swedish vitamin success story opens new chapter in UK and Ireland

The Swedish success story Vitamin Well launches in the UK and Ireland with four distinct great-tasting flavours, all non-carbonated, low-calorie, and enriched with versatile combinations of vitamins and minerals. The beverage comes in bottles made of 100% recycled plastics.

Vitamin Well was developed in Sweden to be a modern, healthier, and tasty alternative to sodas, juices, and other sugary drinks. The non-carbonated, low-calorie beverage comes fortified with a wide range of carefully selected vitamins and minerals, has less sugar than many other popular drinks and is preservative-free. All Vitamin Well bottles are made from 100 percent recycled plastics and are recognised by their minimalistic Scandinavian design.

When the first bottles were introduced in Sweden in 2008, it quickly became clear that Vitamin Well would become popular with conscious consumers as well as anyone looking for a refreshing drink with great taste. Today, Vitamin Well is the clear market leader in Sweden and has also become a consumer favourite in many other European markets. It’s now launching in the UK and Ireland with four flavours; Elevate, Hydrate, Recover and Reload.

“Vitamin Well will clearly fill a gap in the UK and Irish markets, satisfying the increasing consumer demand for healthier alternatives. It’s already a proven success throughout Europe, including the Nordic countries, Germany, Switzerland and many more. In short, we are so excited to finally launch in the UK as well.” says Amy Banerjee, Head of Marketing at Vitamin Well UK & Ireland.

www.vitaminwell.co.uk.

www.instagram.com/vitaminwell_uk

Vitawell Products

Vitawell is a top selling and trusted UK vitamins and food supplements brand, which provides high quality ingredients in a range of formats and flavours for the whole family.

These include some fantastic gummy products which my wife finds specially useful for her requirements. Not everyone can easily swallow tablets or capsules and she finds gummy vitamins and supplements especially helpful.

What's available?

Adult Chewable Multivitamin Tablets (Orange), Adult Chewable Multivitamin Tablets (Raspberry & Strawberry), Adult High Strength Vit D Gummies Blackcurrant, Adult Multivitamin Gummies Raspberry, Calcium + Vit D 120’s, Glucosamine + Vit C 90’s, Omega 3 1000mg 60’s, CLO (Cod Liver Oil), 500mg 120’s, Energy effervescents, Vegan B12 Gummies 60’s, Vegan B12 Chewable 60’s, Turmeric & Black Pepper 60’s, Vitawell Beauty Shine & Glow Capsules, Vitawell Hair Lush Locks Capsules, Vitawell Collagen Total Beauty Capsules, Vitawell Energy Vita Voom Gummies, Vitawell Collagen Total Beauty Gummies, Vitawell Hair Lush Locks Gummies, Vitawell Beauty Shine & Glow Gummies.

There really is something for everyone of all ages, sexes and requirements. 

To learn more and to make your purchases visit them at https://www.vitawellvitamins.com/

Vitabiotics Half a century of being there for folks

Who is Vitabiotics? Vitabiotics is the UK’s number one vitamin company. 

For in excess of half a century, Vitabitoics has been firmly committed to helping people like you and us to be at our best, day after day and whatever life throws at us. 

All Vitabiotics products are based on the latest, top-notch research, helping to ensure that all formulations are evidence-based and provide balanced, moderate levels of nutrients in effective formulas. 

This approach has helped create a wonderful and wide range of market-leading supplements including Pregnacare, Wellman, Wellwoman, Perfectil and Feroglobin, keeping Vitabiotics at the forefront of the healthcare categories they helped pioneer.

Vitabiotics is the only vitamin company to win the Queen’s Award four times, including twice for innovation, and works with charities around the world that share their passion for empowering people to live healthily and happily. Above all else, Vitabiotics remains the same independent, family-run British business it has always been – a name people trust for safe, balanced and effective support.

Jointace Original 

With the warmer weather, many of us are getting back into exercising so it’s important to protect our joints with all the extra movement. Jointace Original has been developed by Vitabiotics nutritional experts and provides unique combinations of trace minerals, vitamins and nutrients, ideal for those with an active life. Along with trace minerals, 

Jointace Original provides Glucosamine present in the preferred potassium form, and a high-quality LMW (low molecular weight) form of Chondroitin, together with Ginger Root extract and Turmeric, well-known botanical ingredients. Copper contributes to the maintenance of normal connective tissues. Vitamin D, zinc and manganese all help to maintain normal bones. 

Perfectil Skin

Did you know that your skin is an organ of your body? Which is one reason why we need to keep our skin good.

And when our skin feels good, we feel good too, but everyday factors including pollution, lifestyle and diet can affect our skin in many ways. 

Perfectil Skin is a patent-protected formula with nutrients for even greater support for your skin. Perfectil Skin provides the original effective Perfectil formula for skin, hair and nails, plus the additional benefit of a specialist Nutri-dermal™ capsule. 

Each Nutri-dermal™ capsule provides extra specific nutrients targeted at skin health including extra biotin, which contributes to the maintenance of normal skin, essential Omega-3 fatty acids from Fish oil and Omega-6 fatty acids from Starflower and Blackcurrant Seed oil plus Lutein, Coenzyme Q10 and Lycopene extract. 

Perfectil works by delivering nourishment through the bloodstream so works 'from within'. Each Perfectil Original tablet contains a range of over 20 micronutrients with specific ingredients for skin, hair and nails. Perfectil Skin can be taken on a daily basis, as part of your regular beauty regime, and replaces your usual multivitamin supplement.

Wellwoman Energy

Whilst it's true that the injection of sunshine into our lives will give us more energy but with our social calendars jam-packed, we can still feel low in energy, even in the summertime. Wellwoman Energy is an advanced effervescent formula designed to provide nutritional support on the go and an extra boost of energy-releasing vitamins when needed. 

Each tablet conveniently dissolves into a glass of water to make a great-tasting lime or orange flavoured drink with just 9 calories. Wellwoman Energy includes vitamins C, B6, B12 and minerals zinc and iron to support normal immune system function, plus riboflavin (vitamin B2). The advanced formula also provides L-Carnitine.

Wellwoman Gummies

These delicious, berry-flavoured gummy multivitamins are designed to help maintain health & vitality in women of all ages. Ideal for those who don’t like swallowing tablets. In total, there are 22 nutrients including B6 and B12 which contribute to normal energy release, the regulation of hormonal activity with B6 and immune support with vitamins A, C, D plus folic acid and copper which contribute to the normal function of the immune system. They’re also vegan friendly and contain no artificial sweeteners, colours, or flavours. Instead, artificial “sugar-free” sweeteners are used meaning Wellwoman Gummies have reduced sugar when compared to a typical full glucose sugar gummy. Like all products at Vitabiotics, Wellwoman has been developed by a team of scientific experts.

(Incidentally, my wife loves Wellwoman Gummies!)

https://www.vitabiotics.com.