Powdered porridge, mint chocolate milkshake, dehydrated Thai green curry, and 200-calorie lemon bars.

For a month, these were what I reached for in place of crisps, sandwiches or salmon salad. 

Mostly in sachets, they looked like something an astronaut might tuck into on the International Space Station, but this type of diet is what thousands of patients have been prescribed on the NHS, as a new way of managing – or even reversing – Type 2 Diabetes. 

‘Total meal replacement’ (aka sipping from your flask of liquid Soylent Green), might sound like a miserable way of existing but as I found out, it can be a practical alternative if you struggle with food control – especially if, like me, you don’t want to resort to injections like Mounjaro or Ozempic, which you might have to take for life, at great expense.

What is the ‘Soup and Shake’ diet?

The nutrition plan became famous when studies showed that 12 weeks of totally replacing normal food with specially formulated ‘products’, followed by gradually reintroducing normal food, could potentially reverse Type 2 diabetes due to the dramatic weight loss.

And just like the jabs – it’s been adopted outside the diabetes community, by people who simply want to lose weight.

Of course, meal replacement products for dieting are not a new concept, with SlimFast and the Cambridge Weight Plan being around for decades, but they have gained more attention since the NHS adopted them in 2020. Record numbers of patients are now prescribed such products by the health service, with over 13,000 enrolled in 2024-5.

Writing about it for Metro, I was sceptical of how easy ‘total meal replacement’ would be to follow, saying you’d probably get fed up after a week or two.

But, I’ll admit, the notion stayed with me. With a young child and a busy job, I don’t have time to follow a traditional diet plan (I’ve tried). The extra shopping and food prep always had me reaching for a bag of tortilla chips for an easy snack, and even if I had time, measuring out grams of cereal and squares of cheese is depressing and anxiety-inducing.  

As I don’t have Type 2 diabetes, it meant that I wouldn’t qualify for a prescription, so instead I used products from the 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan (formerly known as the Cambridge Diet), which provided products for the clinical studies the NHS programme was based on.

With enough of the long-life meals to feed me for a month, I opted for Step 2 of the diet plan, which allows for one ‘real’ 200-calorie dinner as part of an 800 calorie total daily allowance.

Joining me was my husband too, as he was keen to give it a go after slowly beginning to replace all of his shirts with bigger sizes.

Is the ‘Soup and Shake’ diet healthy?

Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a nutritionist who worked in the NHS for over 13 years, says the soup and shake plan is fine if it’s used for a limited time as a reset.

She has seen diabetes patients go into remission with meal replacement products, and still uses them now with patients preparing for or recovering from bariatric surgery.

‘It gives fast, predictable weight loss, which quickly improves blood glucose,’ she told Metro.

‘So it helps with motivation and then they are more likely to continue making other lifestyle related changes, such as feeling more confident to go back to the gym.’

Nichola also explained that having ready-made meals can help people stick to a calorie deficit, because they don’t have the ‘decision fatigue’ of working out what to cook – which was certainly true for me.

I didn’t have to think about what was for lunch; it was just whatever long-life sachet I fancied mixing up, and knowing I was only doing it for a month helped keep me motivated, as I knew it wasn’t forever.

How did I get on?

Keeping a track of the pros and cons, here’s what my month of soup and shakes was like.

Day 1

With a few days of nothing important planned, I start with a ‘vanilla latte’: an espresso shot mixed with vanilla shake and 300ml of hot water, recommended by my consultant, Gemma Renwick.

(As a direct selling business, the 1:1 products are only sold by self-employed ‘consultants’, often women who have done the plan before, whose role is also to motivate you and keep you accountable).

In a video consultation, Gemma says the first few days are the hardest, and after that you feel energised even as your weight drops off. 

It seems unlikely, but I’m ready to believe it…

After this, I have chicken noodle soup, or should I say chicken flavour. I was taken aback by the badge that said it’s suitable for vegetarians, but then again, so is chicken Pot Noodle.

Day 2

My husband starts the diet a day later. Fuelled by black tea alone, all goes well until lunchtime and his first product, in place of a cheese toastie or meal deal. From this point things decline, and by dinner time he says he feels so weak he can’t stand up. 

Being less of a dieting amateur, I diagnose he is hungry, which he denies until I give him an Apple and Cinnamon porridge sachet and cook a 200-calorie prawn stir fry for dinner, followed by a Chocolate Mug Cake sachet. After that, he is suddenly fine again. 

Not the most encouraging start, but it’s early days. 

Day 3

I have little energy and while I don’t exactly feel hungry, I feel lethargic and constantly thirsty due to the concentrated vitamins and minerals in the products. 

We have been warned to drink much more water than usual, so I’ve been carrying around a massive bottle of water infused with cucumber slices, which I sip all day while trying not to down the cucumber as well. 

Day 5

My husband is clinging on, although he looks more like he is recovering from food poisoning than cutting back on Nutella biscuits. 

This could be the day I’ve felt most hungry and distracted. Up until now, I’ve found it bizarrely easy to cut out food almost entirely. It is nice to have one less thing to think about.

Day 6

It’s quite liberating to think ‘I want to lose weight’ and then… just do it. I feel I’ve got momentum having struggled to lose weight with more traditional diets for over five years. 

Day 9

I’m down 3kg, don’t feel especially hungry, and my resolve is strong! Losing weight isn’t so important that I would be willing to carry on if it didn’t feel manageable, but so far the ‘products’ genuinely fill me up more than the equivalent amount of normal food would if I was counting calories.

Day 18

I’m starting to find the diet more difficult. I have had some cheats which are the most pathetic acts of naughtiness, such as a splash of milk in my Americano, or a packet of 99 calorie Pop Squares, not included in my allowance.

I’ve already dropped over 5kg, so I might just be getting complacent.

Day 21

Managed a trip away for the weekend, including going out for fish and chips, all staying within the allowance (or maybe just a tiny bit over).

Day 25

We are both down 8kg, which is well over a stone, and feels ridiculous in less than a month.  

Eating real food like chickpeas or grilled chicken feels like a treat though; I’m quite ready for the ‘reverse diet’ aspect of maintenance, when you gradually add more real food back in.

Day 30

I was so pleased with the results I had decided to carry on for longer, with more real food and a less extreme calorie deficit, but then had to stop completely due to getting a nasty virus and feeling terrible.

Disappointing, but I’m happy with what we’ve achieved. 

Was it worth it?

After a month, we had both lost over a stone, 8kg. But I felt run down and came down with a cold that was so hard to shake that I needed antibiotics.

Nichola assures me this wouldn’t have only been down to the sudden change in diet, but does say that she would have suggested a higher calorie intake from the off.

Another issue I had was the ingredients. Yes, the products were surprisingly tasty and filling, but part of me still felt iffy, having written about ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) and their negative effects on health, including from ingredients like emulsifiers which may affect the gut lining.

With so little fibre in this diet, digestive issues are common; you can even buy a branded ‘Cambridge Fibre’ supplement to sprinkle on the products and help your bowels move things along. 

The extensive list of industrial ingredients also troubled me: it seemed apt that the meals are referred to as ‘products’ rather than food.

They are designed to include all the vitamins and minerals you need, as well as the right macronutrients to keep you feeling full with minimal calories.

If you have the time and knowledge to prepare and eat the same nutrients in whole foods, while still being in a calorie deficit, it would no doubt be better for you. The problem is that I don’t, and I don’t think most people do.

Nichola, who has written a book called How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed, said she would put meal replacements in the same category as foods formulated to be gluten free. They may technically be UPFs, but are engineered to be beneficial to health rather than hyper-palatable.

‘The NHS wouldn’t do it unless it worked,’ she added. ‘It’s a case of risks versus benefits, so if someone is newly diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, that left to itself can cause a whole host of issues, from eye damage to nerve damage.

‘If we know that they can go on this 12-week programme, lose a dramatic amount of weight, and then we build back in the fibre, their gut microbiome – if it has suffered in any way – will bounce back and they will be healthier.’

Who is the ‘Soup and Shake’ diet suited for?

Very restrictive diets are best done under medical supervision for people with a specific clinical goal, like managing diabetes, or trying to get under a specific BMI for an operation or IVF, says Nichola.

Meal replacement products can be used alongside weight loss drugs such as Mounjaro, or can be a cheaper option than the drugs if used as a replacement, though of course they still come at a cost. However, they should be avoided by anyone with a history of disordered eating, or who is pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18.

If someone has a lot of weight to lose, Nichola also recommends they start at a higher calorie limit so that when weight loss plateaus they can drop down further and still see results.

Would I do it again?

Well, it helped me look at my previous habits and realise I could survive with smaller portions.

I also I wanted to see how easy ‘meal replacement’ really was to stick to – and it definitely wasn’t as awful as I imagined. I think I’d do it again – and probably will one day – but for now I’m still enjoying being able to actually chew pizza again, perhaps with some homemade soup on the side.

Jen Mills was given 1:1 Diet meals by Cambridge Weight Plan as a review product. However, don’t expect her to sugarcoat anything – our reviews are 100% independent.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.

‘She’s critically ill Ma,’ my son Robert sobbed down the phone. ‘She just died for five minutes on the table and they had to resuscitate her.’

He was in hospital with my beloved granddaughter Stella-Lily, who was dangerously ill. My blood ran cold at the despair in my son’s voice. 

Within hours, she was diagnosed with sepsis – five days later, she was dead. 

Stella-Lily’s parents had taken her to hospital three times before she was admitted – being sent home twice.

In the months after her death, Robert never stopped blaming himself.

A year later, he took his own life. 

They should both still be here. Instead, this Christmas we had two empty places at the table during our annual family Boxing Day dinner. On the 25th itself, I spent some time alone at home, honouring them in my own way, before going to my daughter’s for a quiet dinner.

Robert was separated from Stella-Lily’s mummy but they had joint custody. During Robert’s weeks, I helped out too. 

Stella-Lily loved her Saturday sleepovers with me – I let her stay up past bedtime, dress up in her favourite princess dress and perform Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off in my front room. 

By November, she was already looking forward to Christmas.

She’d spent the previous December in Canada with relatives on her mummy’s side. But I’d kept my tree up into January, waiting for her. Christmas 2022 was my turn to host, I couldn’t wait.

But in late November, Robert called me to say he was in A&E.

I went to join him, but soon after I arrived, Robert came out looking relieved, with Stella-Lily at his side.

‘They said it’s just a virus,’ he smiled.

I was so thankful.

The next day, Stella-Lily’s mummy took her back to A&E. Robert met her there. They were worried she was still sick and really lethargic.

This time, the doctors decided Stella-Lily had a tummy bug. She was given Dioralyte, an oral rehydration.

The following evening Robert frantically called me. 

Stella-Lily’s parents had taken her to hospital for the third time – she was admitted to paediatric intensive care.

I rushed to the hospital with my daughter. It felt like we’d entered hell.

We were told that Stella-Lily had Strep A, which developed into sepsis. Her kidneys failed so she was put on dialysis and her limbs started turning black.

At one point, amputation was discussed. I remember thinking that she would cope with losing a foot – if only we could save her life.

The intensive care medical team was brilliant but the sepsis had taken hold.

Two days later – just a week after she’d started complaining of feeling unwell – we were informed that Stella-Lily had no brain activity.

And on Sunday December 4th, another scan confirmed that her brain had shut down.

Stella-Lily passed away on Monday December 5th, just three weeks before Christmas and her sixth birthday on December 28th.

We dressed her in her Rapunzel dress and she was laid to rest in a tiny coffin covered in rainbows. 

Christmas was cancelled and on Stella-Lily’s birthday, we released balloons into the sky.

My heart was breaking – but Robert’s was shattered. I had to stay strong for my son. He spiralled completely after her death, spending nights in my spare room watching videos of her.

Of course, he blamed himself. We’d never heard of sepsis, but he kept saying he should have done more to get the doctors to listen to him.

I kept reassuring him, but over the next year, Robert was hospitalised several times after overdosing on alcohol and medications.

I was desperately worried. He’d never had mental health problems previously, but grief was destroying him.

As Christmas approached again, Robert appeared to be turning a corner. He told me we would have a good Christmas this year.

I wanted to believe him and did everything I could to make it special, hanging the decorations and inviting the whole family for Christmas dinner. He went out for a drink with his cousins and uncle, but made sure they were back at my house for 2.10pm, when they knew the turkey would be on the table. 

On Boxing Day, Robert played games with his nieces and nephews. It gave me hope.

A couple of weeks later was Robert’s birthday, so I had invited him over for dinner – just me and him.

But the same afternoon my niece called me, as soon as I heard her voice, I knew Robert had gone.

She’d let herself into his house and immediately found notes he’d left for his nieces and nephews, with gifts and bits of jewellery. She knew before even finding his body what had happened.

Samaritans are here to listen, day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org for more information.

My Robert had taken his own life. I believe he died of a broken heart.

In a video message on his phone to me, he said: ‘I always thought Stella-Lily needed me – but now I know that I need her.’ He also left messages for other members of the family, telling them ‘look after my ma, because she’s the one who will be crying the hardest’. 

After his death, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust commissioned an independent review into Stella-Lily’s care, and highlighted lessons to be learned around recognising sepsis. During the process, the reviewers met with me and I was glad to be involved.

I submitted a letter as part of the review, asking for four basic tests to be carried out on poorly children in A&E – temperature, swabs, urine testing and blood tests. This was included in the final report.

The report made for grim reading. At one point, on her second A&E visit, a doctor asked for a cannula to be inserted into her arm for a blood test, but it never happened. Nor had her urine been tested.

The report acknowledged that this test ‘would probably’ have revealed abnormal results, and IV antibiotics at this stage may have ‘led to a different outcome’.

It was sickening. But I was hopeful that lessons would be learned so it never happens to another child.  

If I can help just one other family to spot the signs of sepsis, Stella-Lily’s death won’t have been in vain.

Martha’s Law gives hospital patients and their families the right to request an urgent review if they feel a patient’s condition is deteriorating and their concerns aren’t being addressed.

I urge people to ask themselves if something feels wrong. It could very well save a life. And parents know their children better than anyone else.

As told to Jade Beecroft.

Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing Ross.Mccafferty@metro.co.uk. 

Share your views in the comments below.

Having a strong core has very little to do with how your stomach looks and everything to do with how your body functions.

If toning your abs makes you feel more confident, well, that’s a added bonus. But for Pilates instructor Hollie Grant, a six pack is never the aim.

‘Your core supports your spine, helps you carry load, and plays a huge role in posture and back comfort,’ Hollie, who specialises in empowering workouts for women, tells Metro.

‘I’m far more interested in helping people feel stronger in everyday life — things like lifting a toddler, carrying shopping, standing for long periods, or getting out of the car without that familiar lower-back twinge.’

The good news is, you don’t have to resign yourself to doing sit-ups to work your abs. In fact, trying a lightning quick, standing workout when you’ve got time to kill might be more effective.

‘The beauty of a standing core routine is that it mirrors real life. We don’t spend our days lying on our backs doing crunches — we’re upright, moving, twisting, reaching, and carrying. Training the core in standing makes it far more transferable,’ says Hollie.

‘And importantly, this kind of short routine isn’t about ‘doing more’ — it’s about doing something useful. Five minutes while the kettle boils is often more sustainable than a 45-minute workout you never quite get around to.’

Consider us convinved. As part of our accessible workouts series, Hollie has provided Metro with the below routine that’s designed for busy mums (or anyone else) who might struggle to find the time to exercise.

It takes approximately five minutes and can be done with a light weight such a dumbbell or water bottle, or with nothing at all.

Exercise 1: Standing Zip-Up (1 minute)

How to do it: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart and knees soft. Take a breath in. As you breathe out, imagine gently “zipping up” from your pelvic floor to your ribcage — like doing up a snug pair of jeans. Hold that light engagement for a few seconds, then relax and repeat.

Why it works: This wakes up the deep abdominal muscles that support your spine and pelvis. It’s subtle but incredibly effective — and especially helpful if you struggle with back ache or feel “unsupported” when carrying weight.

Exercise 2: Standing Anti-Rotation Hold (1 minute)

How to do it: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart. Clasp your hands together in front of your chest. Extend your arms straight out in front of you and hold. Stay tall through the spine, ribs stacked over pelvis, and breathe normally. To make it harder, slowly move the arms a few centimetres side to side without letting your torso twist.

Why it works: This trains your core to resist movement — which is exactly what you need when you’re carrying a toddler on one side, pushing a buggy, or holding a child while doing something else. It’s brilliant for back support and postural strength.

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Exercise 3: Standing Woodchop (1–2 minutes)

How to do it: Hold a light weight or clasp your hands together. Start with your hands high to one side of your body, then rotate and bring them diagonally down across your body towards the opposite hip. Return to the start and repeat before switching sides.

Why it works: Rotational strength is key for everyday movements — lifting, twisting, reaching into the back of the car. This works the obliques and helps protect the lower back.

Exercise 4: Standing Hip Hinge with Reach (1 minute)

How to do it: Stand with feet hip-width apart, knees soft. Hinge forwards slightly at the hips (keeping a long spine), and reach your arms forwards as if you’re passing something across a table. Return to standing and repeat.

Why it works: This links your core to your hips and upper body — helping you move load through your whole body rather than dumping it into your lower back. It’s very transferable to real-life lifting and carrying.

If you do nothing else today, do this. Five minutes of purposeful movement can make a real difference to how your body feels — especially if you’re spending your day lifting, carrying, and moving other humans.

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Whilst the UK is gripped by freezing temperatures, icy pavements, and that bone-chilling wind that seems to cut straight through your coat, staying warm becomes a daily mission.

Whether you’re braving the morning commute, layering up for a winter walk, or simply trying to keep cosy at home without cranking up the heating, the right winter warmers can make all the difference. 

From snug clothing staples to clever insulating essentials, these are the best winter warmers to keep you toasty during the current chill.

Oysho Wool Blend Knit Pompom Hat

Remove the fear of getting a cold head and ears with this chunky knitted hat.

The natural fibres help regulate temperature while locking in heat, making it ideal for frosty commutes and winter walks.

The chunky knit adds extra insulation, while the pompom gives it a cute, off-duty feel.

It’s stylish enough for everyday wear but practical enough to keep you warm.

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Lululemon Wordmark Merino Wool Mittens

Made from merino wool, these mittens are a serious upgrade from your everyday pair.

Merino fabric naturally traps heat while remaining breathable, so your hands stay warm without getting sweaty.

The mitten design keeps fingers together for extra warmth, and the sleek logo finish makes them feel premium.

Pricey, yes, but perfect for long outdoor days in freezing temperatures.

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At just £1, they’re ideal for commuters, outdoor events or emergency warmth when the cold really bites.

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You don’t need to splash the cash on winter warmers to protect you against the elements.

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The White Company Ribbed Long Gloves

Why have we not invested in a pair of long gloves before now?

Elegant but incredibly practical, these ribbed wool-and-cashmere-blend long gloves add extra coverage to keep wrists and forearms warm – an often-overlooked cold spot.

They’re a cool winter essential that works just as well for everyday wear as evening outings.

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M&S Heatgen™ Medium Thermal Crew Neck Top

This Heatgen™ thermal top is a winter layering hero.

Designed to trap body heat while staying lightweight, it keeps you warm without feeling bulky under jumpers or coats.

The brushed inner fabric feels soft against the skin, making it comfortable for all-day wear, acting like a second skin.

It’s perfect for cold offices, outdoor walks or anyone looking to lower their heating bills.

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Uniqlo HEATTECH Extra Warm Cashmere Blend Leggings

Uniqlo is known for its special HEATTECH technology, and it’s absolutely worth adding to your basket.

The advanced fabrication works by converting body moisture into heat, keeping you snug.

The cashmere blend adds softness and extra insulation, making them feel luxe yet practical.

Ideal for layering under jeans or wearing at home, they’re a winter essential when temperatures plunge.

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Breathable yet cosy, they help prevent cold toes without overheating.

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Dryrobe Black Thermal Unisex Fleece Gilet

A thermal fleece gilet is perfect for layering when the cold hits hard.

Designed to retain heat, it’s ideal for outdoor adventures, dog walks or post-workout warmth.

The fleece fabric provides insulation without bulk, and the unisex fit makes it versatile.

A great investment piece for staying warm without feeling weighed down, and for transitional months.

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Ahh, to be able to feel our ears, fingers, and toes on the daily commute again…

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Since its launch in 1969 (in Ireland, where it was initially known as Penneys), Primark has steadily risen to become one of the UK’s most beloved fashion retailers.

In London the brand has a giant flagship four-floor store on Oxford Street, complete with a beauty studio and Greggs cafe, as well as 11 other locations across the city.

And now, it’s opening its first location in the capital in more than a decade, to mark 40 years since a Primark store opened in London, in 1986.

Spanning 24,000 square feet, ‘Primarni’ will be bringing its low-cost goodies to Wimbledon, darling. Home of the tennis, and now, £1 thongs.

Where is London’s new Primark?

The new location will be taking over the former home of Debenhams inside the Wimbledon Quarter shopping centre, and it’s hoped that its doors will open either later this year, or early in 2027.

The forthcoming store will be stocking fashion lines for women, men and kids, as well as beauty and homeware. And it’ll be in good company, considering that the other existing shops inside the centre include M&S, Oliver Bonas, Hotel Chocolat, Rituals, and So Shell Nails.

Robert Cragg, Head of Asset Management at Romulus, said: ‘We’re delighted to welcome Primark to Wimbledon Quarter. Their arrival is a fantastic boost for the local community and brings greater choice for everyday shopping right to the heart of Wimbledon.

‘Together with the raft of new openings across food, fitness, leisure and workspace that have joined us recently, Primark’s new store strengthens our vision of Wimbledon Quarter as a welcoming destination that truly serves local people and brings the community together.’

It’s safe to say that the news has been welcomed by Wimbledon locals.

On Facebook, local business Rocoja Limited described it as just ‘what is needed’ in SW19, noting that the move is ‘fabulous.’

Begona Castro joked: ‘Finally, an actual shop opening in the shopping centre. It’s the most unshopping centre I have visited in my life!’

Kerzia Chetty was pleased to hear the news, saying the new Primark would be ‘somewhere I can buy my kid some clothes when I’m in a hurry or don’t feel like leaving the area.’

Meanwhile, Stephanie Turner said a ‘Zara would’ve been better, but this is encouraging.’

It’s been an exciting few months for Primark. In September 2025, the retailer launched a new service in its Manchester Market Street shop,hailed as ‘luxury.’

Customers in Manchester are now able to book a same-day appointment to have their clothes repaired or altered in store, in partnership with The Seam, a company that offers care and repair for clothing, footwear and bags.

Bookings for the service are available online via Eventbrite (although walk-ins are allowed), and when you arrive for your appointment, you’ll meet with staff, discuss your item and leave it for them to work on.

Depending on the work needed on the garment, this could take 20 to 30 minutes, or you can arrange to collect it later in the day if longer is needed.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.

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And just like that, it’s January again – and with it comes your first edition of Trend Trove and 2026!

After a little time off for the holiday season, our shopping expert is ready (and waiting) to shout about everything she’s seen this year, that you need to know about, add to your basket and have in your wardrobe as soon as possible.

Whether it’s to help with fitness goals, journalling after being spammed on TikTok (IYKYK), making your lunches, starting your morning with coffee at home, home improvements, ‘me-time’, general wellness, and the rest – you can count on her to find it.

She’s even found some skincare devices that will make you look snatched in minutes, skincare that will turn back time, and of course everything else to help hide the fact you haven’t slept since last year.

So, whatever your goal or aspirations for 2026, she’s here to help, or at least not help with your bank balance…

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Anthropologie Found Notes Cedar Leaf & Oak Boxed Candle

A crisp blend of lemon and petitgrain meets fresh greens, layered with warm amber, cypress and sandalwood.

Finished with grounding cedar, oak and musk, it’s like stepping into a serene forest escape.

Buy Now for £28

Commuter Keep Cup

Keep coffee, matcha or cold brew hot or chilled on the go with Commuter’s insulated body and flip lid – stylish, practical and eco-friendly.

Buy Now for £36

Primark Embroidered Cherry And Gingham Square Cushion

The Primark Embroidered Cherry and Gingham Square Cushion is a bright yellow gingham design with a playful cherry motif.

Made from a soft polyester-cotton blend with a polyester filling, it’s perfect for adding a cheerful touch to your home.

Buy Now for £12

Dusk Portofino Waffle 100% Cotton Duvet Cover 200 Thread Count

Made from 100% cotton, this duvet cover features a chic waffle texture for an instant bedroom upgrade.

The reverse side offers a smooth 200-thread-count cotton percale for hotel-style comfort every night.

Pair with matching Portofino Waffle pillowcases, sold separately, for a relaxed yet refined look.

Available in multiple colours and sizes, from Single to Super King.

Buy Now from £35

The White Company Spa Restore Luxury Bath Oil

Cool, calming and spa-like, Restore blends neroli, geranium and eucalyptus essential oils for a scent that refreshes and energises.

Buy Now for £30

Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & Growth Factors Advanced Lifting Serum

This ultra-concentrated serum targets sagging and wrinkles with a powerful blend of anti-ageing actives.

Featuring a 3% Growth Factor Complex and 9% lifting peptides, plus MSM and copper lysinate, it works to repair, firm and visibly lift for a more youthful, resilient complexion.

Buy Now for £176

Bloom & Wild The Shani

Fresh stems for a fresh start – think minimal daucus, salix and asparagus fern.

In just days, lilies unfurl into stunning double-layered pink blooms. Delivered with a step-by-step guide for pro-level arranging.

Note: lilies aren’t suitable for homes with pets.

Buy Now for £43

Heights Biotic+

Feel lighter and energised with 7 powerful probiotic strains plus zinc.

Each delayed-release capsule delivers 20 billion CFU alive to your gut, surviving stomach acid for maximum absorption and daily wellness support.

Buy Now for £40

Le Creuset Lunch Box

An everyday essential for meals on the go, this stainless-steel lunch box is perfectly sized for one portion.

Its 3-in-1 design makes it ideal for storing leftovers, packing sandwiches or salads, and keeping ingredients fresh.

Durable and easy to clean, it’s a practical choice for busy days.

Buy Now for £35

Lola Blankets Original in Desert Dune

Bring cosy, timeless warmth to your space with this taupe throw, inspired by the sun-washed tones of Joshua Tree.

Each piece is handcrafted and double-sided with ultra-soft faux fur for a snug feel.

Made from 100% vegan, stain-resistant fabric and generously sized at 60 x 72 inches, it’s perfect for beds, sofas or quiet corners.

Buy Now for £248.49

Manifest by Roxie Nafousi

Discover the art of manifestation in seven simple steps with self-development coach Roxie Nafousi. From attracting your dream job or soulmate to finding inner peace, this empowering guide blends science and wisdom to help you set clear intentions, overcome doubt, embrace gratitude and trust the process for a life you love.

Buy Now for £9.99

lululemon Align™ Tank Top with Light Support

The lululemon Align™ Tank Top with Light Support is perfect for yoga and low-impact workouts.

Made from buttery-soft Nulu™ fabric, it offers a cropped fit, built-in shelf bra with removable cups, and light support.

Comfortable, sweat-wicking and designed to pair with high-rise leggings, it’s a versatile staple for everyday movement.

Buy Now for £58

Roxanne First Trio of Hearts Cord Bag Charm

Clip on this oversized emoji charm to your favourite tote for a fun pop of personality and a little extra love wherever you go.

Buy Now for £115

H&M Large Asymmetrical Glass Vase

This modern vase features an elegant asymmetrical design with soft, clean lines.

Beautiful enough to stand alone as a statement piece, it’s also perfect for displaying fresh flowers or creating a striking centrepiece for your table.

Buy Now for £24.99

ZIIP HALO 2.0

This smart microcurrent facial device delivers stronger currents you can feel from the first use, helping lift, tighten and brighten skin.

Connected to the ZIIP app, it offers personalised treatments at the tap of a button, making advanced skincare simple and effective.

Buy Now for £379.99

Smythson 2026 Premier Daily Fashion Diary in Panama

Stay ahead of the style game with our Panama leather fashion diary, featuring key dates for London, New York, Milan and Paris shows.

Its day-per-page layout keeps you organised through the whirlwind of fashion week, making it a chic essential for every fashion lover.

Buy Now for £150

M&S Suedette Croc Effect Double Chain Shoulder Bag

This chic shoulder bag combines a croc-embossed finish with a soft suede-effect texture for a luxe look.

Inside, two compartments and a zipped pocket keep essentials organised, while a gold-tone double chain strap and elegant buckle fastening complete the stylish design.

Buy Now for £40

L'Occitane Almond Shower Oil

Turn your shower into a spa ritual with this best-selling oil that transforms into a silky, milk-like lather.

Infused with omega-rich sweet almond and grapeseed oils, it deeply nourishes and softens while leaving skin supple and radiant.

Finished with a warm almond and vanilla scent for an indulgent experience.

Buy Now for £22

Papier Wellness Journal

Start and end each day with intention using this redesigned wellness journal.

Inside, you’ll find 12 weeks of pages to track habits, sleep, energy and gratitude, helping you reflect and reset for a healthier, more mindful routine.

Buy Now for £26

Oliver Bonas Red & Cream Floral Pinstripe Large Square Scarf

Brighten up your style with this bold red and cream square scarf.

Featuring a chic mix of florals and pinstripes, it’s the ultimate versatile accessory—wear it as a headband, tie it to your bag, or channel Parisian vibes as a classic neckerchief.

Buy Now for £26

Seen something you like, or have you purchased something new recently that you can’t stop telling others about? Let us know!

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Dunelm is known for its brilliant offerings in homewear. Whether you’re after a new bed, hello the boucle Oversized Ottoman Hotel Bed Frame, or simply need a new set of Egyptian cotton towels for the bathroom, you can’t go wrong. 

With the temperatures dropping across the UK, we Brits try everything in our power not to turn the heating on and rack up those eye-watering energy bills. Well, what if we told you that Dunelm had an amazing selection of essentials that would have you keeping warm for a fraction of the price?

From cosy throws to heat-trapping home must-haves, including foot warmers and more, these clever buys help lock in warmth and keep the chill at bay – all without touching the thermostat.

Teddy Electric Blanket

If cold nights are ruining your sleep, this teddy electric blanket is well worth the investment.

The plush fabric feels instantly cosy, while built-in heating elements gently warm your bed in minutes.

Designed to evenly distribute heat, it helps you stay snug all night.

Ideal for frosty evenings, it’s comfort, warmth, and energy-saving rolled into one.

Buy Now from £35

Carmen Heated Faux Fur Foot Warmer

No one likes to have cold feet, so let us introduce you to this masterful product.

This heated faux fur foot warmer wraps your toes in super-soft fabric while delivering soothing heat to keep the chills at bay.

The insulated lining traps warmth, making it perfect for working from home or relaxing on the sofa.

It heats up quickly and feels cosy, making it a small but mighty buy.

Buy Now for £28

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Hot Water Bottle

This list wouldn’t be complete without a trusty hot water bottle that will see you through the season.

Whether tucked under the covers, used to heat up your pillows, or even held against aching muscles, it retains heat for hours.

Budget-friendly and energy-efficient, at half price, it’s an easy, no-brainer winter essential.

Buy Now for £3.50 (was £7)

Amelia Cable Electric Throw

You can’t beat getting wrapped up under a snug blanket when it’s chilly, so why not take it up a level with a heated version?

We know, this got us excited as well.

The cable-knit fabric adds another level of insulation so you don’t have to worry about any heat escaping.

Whether you’re lounging on the sofa or wrapped around you as you work from home, it’s ideal for staying cosy.

Buy Now for £40

Dreamland Heat Pad

A modern alternative to a hot water bottle, this heat pad is ideal for use all around the home; it’s a great alternative to heating the whole room.

Heating up in just five minutes, you’ll be delivered warmth in no time.

The soft fabric provides gentle, adjustable heat to specific areas, helping muscles relax while combating the cold.

Better yet, it's great for energy saving as it costs from 1p to run.

Buy Now for £39

Retro Flame Effect 1.8KW Heater

Electric heaters cost a lot less to run than central heating, so why not invest in one that will amp up the cosy factor with its flame-effect display?

With a powerful 1.8KW output, your space will quickly be filled with heart-warming heat that will have you feeling like you’re perched by the fire in no time.

Buy Now for £99.99

Dreamland Neck & Shoulder Heat Pad

Made to aid in recovery from aches and pains, this neck and shoulder head pad delivers comforting heat where you need it.

Designed with a contoured shape, it perfectly sits on the area without applying a heavy weight or extra pressure.

Great for desk workers or relaxing after a long day.

Buy Now for £59

Teddy Oversized Blanket Hoodie

An ultimate self-care/ snug accessory for the home is a blanket hoodie.

These bad boys will make you feel like you’re receiving a constant warm hug.

The thick, fluffy fabric traps heat while giving you full freedom to move around the house.

It’s an affordable winter must-have – especially at the sale price. Once on, you won’t want to take it off.

Buy Now for £11.20 (was £16)

So, what are you waiting for? That Carmen Heated Faux Fur Foot Warmer is calling our name…

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When Martine Purdy’s 11-year-old son had a high temperature, she put it down to the chest infection he was recovering from.

It was March 2024, and Franki was also struggling with tiredness and a lack of appetite — by the evening, he had a scorching temperature.

But when 51-year-old Martine went into Franki’s room the next morning, she had a gut feeling that something was wrong.

Laying eyes on her son, she was horrified to see his fingers were ‘bent backwards,’ and a faint murmuring sound was coming out of his mouth.

Martine screamed Franki’s name, but she couldn’t wake him up.

The makeup artist says: ‘I couldn’t rouse him; it was like he was on a different planet.

‘I didn’t know this at the time, but he had already had two seizures, his right lung had collapsed, and he’d had a stroke.’

When the paramedics arrived, they attempted to get Franki into the ambulance, but in his state of confusion, he thought he was being kidnapped.

Then, when he arrived at the hospital, doctors placed him in an induced coma and confirmed that he had swelling on his brain.

Franki was then diagnosed with a life-threatening form of bacterial meningococcal meningitis with sepsis, called meningoencephalitis.

The condition occurs when there’s inflammation on the brain and the protective membranes that surround it and the spinal cord at the same time.

‘It was the most horrific sight you could imagine, he was hooked up to all of these wires, and there were machines breathing for him,’ Martine, who lives in Nottingham, shares.

‘The doctors said it was really lucky that Franki was fighting, as it can be fatal. They said he only had an hour to live when the ambulance got to him.’

From that point onwards, Martine and Franki’s dad, Luke, stayed in the hospital with him each and every night.

When doctors first tried to wake Franki from his coma, he was so distressed, that he was sedated again. The second time, while he came round, he was unable to open his eyes, and was ‘crying with fear’.

But across the course of that month, Franki underwent gruelling treatment, learn to walk, talk, eat and even swallow again.

Nineteen months after his illness, Franki’s only just getting back to school.

But even now, he’s still suffering the repercussions of his stroke, and he forgets about conversations almost immediately, so he struggles to keep up.

Franki needs extra help getting washed and dressed, and sometimes still needs to use the wheelchair he was given during his immediate recovery. He also lost patches of his hair, and he still experiences severe headaches.

Now 13, Franki has no memory of the incident, and throughout his time on the hospital ward, he had confabulation nightmares — nightmares he thought were real — where he believed he had staples in his face.

Martine says it was ‘horrible watching him go from a lively boy to a shadow of himself.’

But while Franki’s recovery is ongoing, the family hold onto hope.

‘The road is long, and we have been through hell, so we are determined to go as slowly as is needed to get Franki strong again,’ said Martine.

While he was in hospital, Martine decided to write a story that reimagined Franki’s experience.

The plot is centred around his body being in a coma, but his mind being in a mythical forest, where he met talking animals that were encouraging him to be strong.

She ended up publishing the story as part of a book called The Forest of Remembering, intended to help others understand brain injuries, and to serve in solidarity with people who have suffered from similar illnesses.

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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.