Latest news with #Marcel
Edinburgh Live
2 days ago
- Health
- Edinburgh Live
Scottish dad sheds nearly 2 stone in three months after making one simple change
Marcel Botes, a Scottish father to an 11-month-old son, has impressively shed 12.5kg (nearly two stone) in just two months by using a cutting-edge AI coaching app called Simple. Motivated by concerns about his health, including high blood pressure and cholesterol, Marcel found himself struggling to resist the urge to snack, particularly post-dinner. He said: "Initially my biggest challenge was avoiding snacks, especially after dinner, but the app helped me make informed food choices." Speaking about his impressive weight loss, Marcel added: "So far I've lost 12.5kg. I reached my original goal weight of 87.6kg in two months. I set a new target of 83.5kg, which I achieved a month later. Even after reaching my goal, I still log my meals and activities multiple times a day." Continuing his path to wellness, Marcel was keen to share: "After a health assessment, my doctor noted my BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol were in healthy ranges, and asked me to keep going." Simple is an intuitive app that crafts a bespoke weight-loss programme to fit each user's lifestyle and objectives. It begins with a personalized quiz that tailors fasting recommendations to lifestyle, considering factors like activity levels, health goals and timeline. By using an intermittent fasting tracker, the Simple method doesn't include calorie counting, cutting out essential food groups, or weighing every bite. Based on individual input, the app helps users choose a fasting schedule that suits them best- whether it's a balanced 12:12 split, a moderate 14:10 or the 16:8 routine. Simple app review Simple app is now 60% off If shoppers want to try the Simple app for themselves, it's currently 60 per cent off with code REACH60 £17.99 Simple Buy Here using the code REACH60 The 16:8 routine is the most popular intermittent fasting method where users eat during an 8-hour window - such as 10 am to 6 pm - and fast for the remaining 16 hours. During the fasting period, food must be avoided but calorie-free beverages can still be enjoyed. To help users stay on top of their nutrition, the app has various methods for logging food including typing, voice commands, or photographs with the nutriscanner. It also offers personalised exercise routines, from strength training and cardio to wall pilates. Now, those eager to start shedding pounds can emulate Marcel's success and snatch a fantastic 60% discount on personalised weight loss programmes via the Simple App by using the code REACH60. What makes the Simple App so effective is the addition of Avo, the built-in coach powered by artificial intelligence. Avo acts as a personal wellness companion, always on hand to instantly respond to users' questions, ensuring advice on wellbeing and fitness is just a tap away any time they need it. "I love that I can take a photo of my meal and Avo can track the nutritional value for me," continued Marcel. "I frequently use Avo's recipes. Interacting with it feels more like someone who is invested in my health, rather than an AI." (Image: Simple) However, if the Simple App doesn't tick all the boxes, a variety of alternative healthy lifestyle apps are available. Take the Lifesum App, for example, an app that assists users by helping them logging their diet and physical activity habits, promoting the adoption of healthier choices. Myfitnesspal is another app that has won over many fans with its highly-regarded food diary that offers meal planning, calorie tracking and exercise routines. While both apps are free to use, they feature premium versions for those looking for extra support and resources. Mum-of-two Laci Gilbert has also enjoyed great success with the Simple app. She dropped from 275lbs to 116lbs, utilising the workouts and meal planning via Avo. Laci said: "As working moms, wives, mothers, just family members, life takes over and sometimes we don't have time in the evenings to get ourselves to the gym or sometimes we just don't feel like moving. The Simple App gives you a no-excuse reason to get up and move, especially when you can do it at home with no equipment." 'It is great for a busy person who needs something to do at home or somebody who cannot afford a gym membership, equipment. All you need is yourself and a wall and you've got it,' adds Laci, who frequently does at-home wall pilates workouts. (Image: Simple) The Simple app has received an impressive 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot based on 29,591 reviews. One satisfied user commented: "It is an encouraging way to lose weight." One user enthused: "This app is amazing. It's so easy to use and I love all of the interactions. "It's easy to follow," mentioned another customer. "I'm actually losing weight I've been stuck with forever." Yet, not everyone found the app straightforward, as one individual expressed: "I am finding the program a little difficult to use." The Mirror also gave its thoughts on the app, stating: "Simple's range of features are very reminiscent to what you'd get with a personal trainer: someone to hold you accountable, provide you with meal plans and recipes, and to give advice and encouragement." They added: "There are limitations to it, with the app being a robot, which makes the programme more suited to those who are just getting started or don't know where to start. If you need more advanced help or your weight loss is stalling, that's a good time to pick up the phone to a PT." The review continued: "However, its food logging and recipe functions makes it worth the price of admission alone. Even though I'm keeping my PT, Simple will help spice things up for me going forward. I highly recommend this app."
Time Out Abu Dhabi
2 days ago
- Business
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
You can now get baked goods straight from London (sort of) on Careem
Abu Dhabi carb-lovers, rejoice: the UAE's delivery game just got a major glow-up. The cult London-born Marcel Bakery – known for its buttery viennoiseries, crusty sourdoughs and patisserie perfection – is now available exclusively on Careem Groceries. And the best part? It arrives at your door in under 20 minutes. If you've ever dined in an award-winning restaurant in London, LA or Vegas, chances are you've already tasted Marcel's artisanal bakes. But now, thanks to Careem's new partnership with Marcel Bakery by Boulangeries de Paris, you don't need a reservation or a plane ticket to get your hands on the goods. The line-up includes freshly baked breads, croissants that flake just right and desserts that belong in a glass cabinet under soft lighting. Whether you're hosting a fancy dinner or just want to level up your weekday breakfast, these are the kind of baked goods that will make your kitchen feel like a French bistro. To order, simply open the Careem app, tap 'Groceries' and start adding to your cart. If you're a Careem Plus member, you'll score free delivery and sweet discounts across food, groceries, money transfers, rides and even Careem Bike. Chase Lario, VP of Carem Groceries, said: 'We're excited to bring exceptional bakery goods directly to customers' doorsteps with unmatched convenience. Through our partnership with Marcel Bakery, customers can now enjoy chef-quality baked goods delivered oven-fresh in under 20 minutes – whether it's a warm sourdough loaf for breakfast or an elegant dessert to elevate a dinner party at home.' Chef Fouhade Belaid, founder and CEO of Marcel Bakery, added: 'For years, our sourdough has been served in the kitchens of Michelin-starred chefs and luxury hotels around the world. We've always been about quality, not quantity – but this partnership with Careem lets us do something special. We're now able to bring our bread straight to homes across the UAE, without compromising on what makes it unique. It's the same dough, the same care – just a shorter journey from our ovens to your table.' More going on in Abu Dhabi You can now get a robotaxi from Zayed International Airport Trips to the airport just got an upgrade Abu Dhabi's best restaurants: Everywhere you should eat at least once Your dinner inspo is sorted 20 incredibly fun ways to explore Abu Dhabi after dark The city is at its most fascinating once the sun goes down
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Brit dad loses two stone in two months with one change
Marcel Botes, 33, from Edinburgh, was motivated by concerns about the impact his weight was having on his health Scottish dad, Marcel Botes, has shed an impressive 12.5kg (one stone and 13 pounds) in just two months, all thanks to a cutting-edge AI coaching app, and he couldn't be happier with the result. Concerns about his health, specifically his high blood pressure and cholesterol, spurred Marcel into action. Partial to the odd nibble here and there, he was struggling to get his munching under control - until the Simple App came along. He said: "Initially my biggest challenge was avoiding snacks, especially after dinner, but the app helped me make informed food choices." Delighted, he continued: "So far I've lost 12.5kg. I reached my original goal weight of 87.6kg in two months. I set a new target of 83.5kg, which I achieved a month later. Even after reaching my goal, I still log my meals and activities multiple times a day." His diligence has paid off. Following a medical check-up, Marcel got the thumbs up from his GP, who reported his BMI, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are all spot on and encouraged him to carry on. Simple is a user-friendly app that creates bespoke slimming programs based on lifestyle, activity levels, health goals and timeline. Users embark upon their weight loss journey by filling out an in-depth questionnaire about their goals, hang-ups, likings, and previous attempts at weight loss, reports MyLondon. By using an intermittent fasting tracker, the Simple method doesn't include calorie counting, cutting out essential food groups, or weighing every bite. Based on individual input, the app helps users choose a fasting schedule that suits them best- whether it's a balanced 12:12 split, a moderate 14:10 or the 16:8 routine. The 16:8 routine is the most popular intermittent fasting method where users eat during an 8-hour window - such as 10 am to 6 pm - and fast for the remaining 16 hours. During the fasting period, food must be avoided but calorie-free beverages can still be enjoyed. To help users stay on top of their nutrition, the app has various methods for logging food including typing, voice commands, or photographs with the nutriscanner. It also offers personalised exercise routines, from strength training and cardio to wall pilates. Now, those eager to start shedding pounds can emulate Marcel's success and snatch a fantastic 60% discount on personalised weight loss programmes via the Simple App by using the code REACH60. What makes the Simple App so effective is the addition of Avo, the built-in coach powered by artificial intelligence. Avo acts as a personal wellness companion, always on hand to instantly respond to users' questions, ensuring advice on wellbeing and fitness is just a tap away any time they need it. "I love that I can take a photo of my meal and Avo can track the nutritional value for me," continued Marcel. "I frequently use Avo's recipes. Interacting with it feels more like someone who is invested in my health, rather than an AI." For those seeking alternatives, there's a plethora of other health-focused apps on the market. The Lifesum app, for example, helps users to monitor their eating and exercise habits, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. Myfitnesspal is another popular choice that offers comprehensive food tracking, meal planning, calorie counting and exercise routines. Both apps are free with optional premium upgrades for those looking for extra support and tools. Meanwhile, mum-of-two Laci Gilbert also had success with the Simple app. She dropped from 275lbs to 116lbs, utilising the workouts and meal planning via Avo. She said: "As working moms, wives, mothers, just family members, life takes over and sometimes we don't have time in the evenings to get ourselves to the gym or sometimes we just don't feel like moving. The Simple App gives you a no-excuse reason to get up and move, especially when you can do it at home with no equipment." 'It is great for a busy person who needs something to do at home or somebody who cannot afford a gym membership, equipment. All you need is yourself and a wall and you've got it,' adds Laci, who frequently does at-home wall pilates workouts. The Simple app boasts an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, based on 29,591 reviews. A satisfied user commented: "It is an encouraging way to lose weight." Another user added: "This app is amazing. It's so easy to use and I love all of the interactions. "It's easy to follow," a different shopper explained. "I'm actually losing weight I've been stuck with forever." Despite the praise, some users did voice concerns about the application, as one remarked: "I am finding the program a little difficult to use." The Manchester Evening News also put the app through its paces in a Simple app review. They observed: "Simple's range of features are very reminiscent to what you'd get with a personal trainer: someone to hold you accountable, provide you with meal plans and recipes, and to give advice and encouragement." Highlighting a potential drawback, they added: "There are limitations to it, with the app being a robot, which makes the programme more suited to those who are just getting started or don't know where to start. If you need more advanced help or your weight loss is stalling, that's a good time to pick up the phone to a PT." Still, the app earned positive comments for certain aspects, as the review mentioned: "However, its food logging and recipe functions makes it worth the price of admission alone. Even though I'm keeping my PT, Simple will help spice things up for me going forward. I highly recommend this app." The Simple app is currently 60% off with code REACH60. This is not medical advice. This is a personal experience. Results may vary. Please consult your healthcare professional for any medical conditions.
North Wales Live
5 days ago
- Health
- North Wales Live
Scottish dad sheds nearly 2 stone in three months after making one simple change
Marcel Botes, a Scottish father to an 11-month-old son, has impressively shed 12.5kg (nearly two stone) in just two months by using a cutting-edge AI coaching app called Simple. Motivated by concerns about his health, including high blood pressure and cholesterol, Marcel found himself struggling to resist the urge to snack, particularly post-dinner. He said: "Initially my biggest challenge was avoiding snacks, especially after dinner, but the app helped me make informed food choices." Speaking about his impressive weight loss, Marcel added: "So far I've lost 12.5kg. I reached my original goal weight of 87.6kg in two months. I set a new target of 83.5kg, which I achieved a month later. Even after reaching my goal, I still log my meals and activities multiple times a day." Continuing his path to wellness, Marcel was keen to share: "After a health assessment, my doctor noted my BMI, blood pressure and cholesterol were in healthy ranges, and asked me to keep going." Simple is an intuitive app that crafts a bespoke weight-loss programme to fit each user's lifestyle and objectives. It begins with a personalized quiz that tailors fasting recommendations to lifestyle, considering factors like activity levels, health goals and timeline. By using an intermittent fasting tracker, the Simple method doesn't include calorie counting, cutting out essential food groups, or weighing every bite. Based on individual input, the app helps users choose a fasting schedule that suits them best- whether it's a balanced 12:12 split, a moderate 14:10 or the 16:8 routine. The 16:8 routine is the most popular intermittent fasting method where users eat during an 8-hour window - such as 10 am to 6 pm - and fast for the remaining 16 hours. During the fasting period, food must be avoided but calorie-free beverages can still be enjoyed. To help users stay on top of their nutrition, the app has various methods for logging food including typing, voice commands, or photographs with the nutriscanner. It also offers personalised exercise routines, from strength training and cardio to wall pilates. Now, those eager to start shedding pounds can emulate Marcel's success and snatch a fantastic 60% discount on personalised weight loss programmes via the Simple App by using the code REACH60. What makes the Simple App so effective is the addition of Avo, the built-in coach powered by artificial intelligence. Avo acts as a personal wellness companion, always on hand to instantly respond to users' questions, ensuring advice on wellbeing and fitness is just a tap away any time they need it. "I love that I can take a photo of my meal and Avo can track the nutritional value for me," continued Marcel. "I frequently use Avo's recipes. Interacting with it feels more like someone who is invested in my health, rather than an AI." However, if the Simple App doesn't tick all the boxes, a variety of alternative healthy lifestyle apps are available. Take the Lifesum App, for example, an app that assists users by helping them logging their diet and physical activity habits, promoting the adoption of healthier choices. Myfitnesspal is another app that has won over many fans with its highly-regarded food diary that offers meal planning, calorie tracking and exercise routines. While both apps are free to use, they feature premium versions for those looking for extra support and resources. Mum-of-two Laci Gilbert has also enjoyed great success with the Simple app. She dropped from 275lbs to 116lbs, utilising the workouts and meal planning via Avo. Laci said: "As working moms, wives, mothers, just family members, life takes over and sometimes we don't have time in the evenings to get ourselves to the gym or sometimes we just don't feel like moving. The Simple App gives you a no-excuse reason to get up and move, especially when you can do it at home with no equipment." 'It is great for a busy person who needs something to do at home or somebody who cannot afford a gym membership, equipment. All you need is yourself and a wall and you've got it,' adds Laci, who frequently does at-home wall pilates workouts. The Simple app has received an impressive 4.3-star rating on Trustpilot based on 29,591 reviews. One satisfied user commented: "It is an encouraging way to lose weight." One user enthused: "This app is amazing. It's so easy to use and I love all of the interactions. "It's easy to follow," mentioned another customer. "I'm actually losing weight I've been stuck with forever." Yet, not everyone found the app straightforward, as one individual expressed: "I am finding the program a little difficult to use." The Mirror also gave its thoughts on the app, stating: "Simple's range of features are very reminiscent to what you'd get with a personal trainer: someone to hold you accountable, provide you with meal plans and recipes, and to give advice and encouragement." They added: "There are limitations to it, with the app being a robot, which makes the programme more suited to those who are just getting started or don't know where to start. If you need more advanced help or your weight loss is stalling, that's a good time to pick up the phone to a PT." The review continued: "However, its food logging and recipe functions makes it worth the price of admission alone. Even though I'm keeping my PT, Simple will help spice things up for me going forward. I highly recommend this app."
Belfast Telegraph
27-05-2025
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Owner of Belfast restaurant selling up: ‘Even though it's trading well, it's getting harder to make money'
The co-owner of a French restaurant in east Belfast has said he's selling up because margins have become too tightly squeezed. Marcel opened on Belmont Road around 18 months ago, with a sister venue of the same name following on Lisburn Road in the city.
