A research team at Queen’s University Belfast has developed a novel dietary supplement that is manufactured using 3D printing. The cocoa-based formulation combines the health benefits of Greek honey and vitamin D3, offering an innovative way to boost the immune system.
The Greek honey contains thyme and asfaka (Greek sage), which are known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, thyme contributes to the immune defense, especially in the case of respiratory infections. Asfaka, on the other hand, contains phenolic compounds that counteract oxidative stress and can support the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. The combination of these ingredients with vitamin D3 makes the formulation a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of diseases.
Commenting on the importance of this study, Professor Dimitrios Lamprou, Lead on the project and Chair of Biofabrication and Advanced Manufacturing from the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast, said: “Greek honey has a complex chemical composition that makes it a valuable nutritional ingredient for good health. This study has shown that the honey investigated has multiple beneficial properties, making them valuable both for improving health and for preventing and treating various diseases. Incorporating honey into 3D printed cacao-based dosage forms, palatability and patient compliance can be improved, and personalised health supplements and nutraceuticals can be easily prepared.”
Dr Matthew Wylie, Lecturer from the School of Pharmacy at Queen’s University Belfast added: “With my previous background as a pharmacist, I know all too well the potential issues poor patient adherence to medications can have on treatment efficacy. This is especially the case for younger patients who may refuse to take medications due to poor palatability. Our approach provides a simple way to potentially improve the acceptability of medicines through the taste-masking properties of cacao and honey. Moreover, we have shown the Greek honey variants used in this study possessed inhibitory effects against pathogenic bacteria which could provide further health benefits.”
These could bring further health benefits. 3D printing also enables the production of complex, personalized dosage forms that are not only effective but also pleasant to taste.
The results of this study were published in the journal Current Research in Food Science and show the potential of 3D printing in the development of sustainable, health-promoting products.
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