The Story Behind Lester’s Oil
By Daniel King MSc (Hons)
The story of About Health is a little different to most. While many companies begin with an entrepreneur and a product idea, About Health really began with two very personal stories — what happened to my mother, and what happened to my father.
In 2009, my father passed away. He had faced serious health challenges, and it was a difficult time for our whole family. My dad was a builder, and like many in the 1970s, smoking was part of life back then. Although he gave it up years earlier, some effects of earlier lifestyle choices may have stayed with him.
Dad was old-school and somewhat stubborn — the kind of person who trusted his doctors and got on with things quietly. Even when things became difficult, he kept a brave face. I remember visiting him in the hospital and being amazed by his strength and sense of humour. Around a week before he passed, he said to me, “Dan, I think there’s a better than even chance that I’m not getting out of here.” It was his way of preparing me, while still protecting the rest of the family from worry. That moment has stuck with me.
He spoke to me quietly, asked me to take care of Mum, and made sure I knew how important it was that she still got to enjoy life, that she went on those holidays they’d always talked about. He was only 67, far too young, in my opinion — and I know his story is one that many New Zealand families can relate to.
Lester's Oil: A tribute to my father
During that time, I kept thinking: “What could I have done? What could I have given Dad that might have supported his overall health earlier on?” That question stayed with me — and eventually, it led to the creation of Lester’s Oil, named in his honour.
Lester’s Oil was designed with a high-quality blend of nutrients that support general wellbeing including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. One of the key things we considered was that many people, especially in recent years, have had limited sun exposure due to increased awareness of UV risks. Less time in the sun can mean we’re not producing as much natural vitamin D, which plays a role in maintaining bone health, immune function, and overall vitality.
For this reason, we chose to include the maximum daily amount of vitamin D allowed under New Zealand regulations to help support everyday wellness.
We also included omega-3s, which are important for heart and brain health, among other functions. A 2014 human study conducted by a New Zealand university found that supplementation with our formula led to a significant increase in omega-3 levels in just four weeks. We were proud to see results that backed up the product but even prouder to hear from customers who say it helps them feel like they’re looking after their long-term health.
A Personal Legacy
Lester’s Oil is much more than just a product to me. It’s a tribute to my dad and a way to turn something difficult into something positive. Every time someone chooses Lester’s Oil as part of their wellness routine, it’s another way his story lives on.
You can read more about the study here.
