Close collaboration leads to new approach against obesity
Previtas is the weight management clinic of the hospital group Twente. A team of specialists is taking on the fight against overweight and has obtained excellent results with a 3 stage plan for lasting weight control: Start-it, Do-it and Keep-it.
During the Start-it phase through a special diet relatively a lot of weight is lost in a short period of time. In the Do-it phase healthy eating habits are established in combination with exercise, while in the Keep-it phase a healthy living style is optimized and the target weight is maintained.
Although behavioural therapy is an essential tool for lasting weight control, food supplements are used. Medical doctor and internist Frank van Berkum was not satisfied with the products available on the market. While searching for better alternatives, he came in contact with Barentz. Barentz is one of Europe’s largest specialists for raw materials for the food industry. With almost 300 employees in 25 countries, Barentz is marketing and distributing the raw materials of leading ingredient companies such as ABFI, IFF, Roquette Frères and The Solae Company.
Based on scientific research and the specific wishes of Dr. van Berkum, a unique product has been developed under the trade name Ollyxa, which is marketed exclusively through Previtas.
Ollyxa delivers overweight patients with the right amount of proteins and food fibres. The raw materials, supplied by Barentz are selected based on the latest scientific opinions. The high grade protein composition assures a long lasting satiety effect for its consumer. The proteins stimulate the creation of muscle tissue and help to break down body fat. Ollyxa is an important part of a scientific research project of Previtas in collaboration with the Universities of Groningen and Maastricht.
Next to the meal replacer, Barentz is involved in the development of Ollyxa Omelette. Furthermore a low salt herb bouillon has been developed to help the slimmers get through the difficult moments between meals. In Barentz’ production company, Barentz Ingredients, the ingredients are mixed and flavoured on doctors prescription and packed for the consumers.
Previtas, the clinic and Barentz the industry are two worlds apart, but the combination is achieving results.