As 2025 approaches and many Americans set intentions and resolutions for the new year, their weight is undeniably on their minds, according to Hims & Hers. 

While this may not seem like a stunning revelation—especially since a new year often prompts consumers to head to the gym and/or fill their grocery carts with healthier options, at least for a few weeks—a new report from the health and wellness platform highlights just how significant the issue of weight is for Americans.

The report, The Shape of America, is based on an online survey of 5,000 respondents aged 18 and older and demonstrates how the desire for weight loss has permeated all aspects of life, from household economics to self-worth.

Underscoring that weight is indeed a top concern for Americans, Hims & Hers reveals that 75% of Americans think about their weight every day, with 14% admitting it is a constant concern. 

Other findings from the report reveal that 85% of Americans believe at least one major area of their life would improve if they lost weight, while 83% acknowledge they are not at their desired weight. Over half (59%) agree or somewhat agree that their entire life would improve with weight loss, and 54% say their mood fluctuates based on the number on the scale.

On average, Americans would like to lose 42 pounds, and 77% are open to trying a weight loss method they haven’t yet explored. The desire to lose weight also has an economic impact: 81% of Americans say they would save money on household expenses if they lost weight.

The report also explores the connection between mental health and excess weight, revealing that 85% of individuals with obesity say their weight has negatively impacted their daily lives, making them more likely to skip work or withdraw from activities and goals.

Hims & Hers’ findings contrast with the body positivity movement (a point it acknowledges) and show that Gen Z survey participants report experiencing more body stigma, shame and trauma than older generations. Over half (54%) of Gen Z respondents admit to feeling, or having felt, inferior to others because of their weight.

The statistics from the Gen Z cohort could help explain why young consumers are seemingly more invested in health, fitness and wellness than older generations.  

Weight Loss Medication Market Continues to Surge

The results of the report stand out against the backdrop of rising weight loss medications—industry-disrupting drugs that are helping Americans to slim down, despite their often high costs.

It’s an area that Hims & Hers is now invested in, having ventured into the weight loss medication arena this year with compounded GLP-1 injections and weight loss pills. Last month, the platform issued a white paper demonstrating that its program has been successful, with 87% of its customers working toward, nearing or have already met their weight loss goal. 

It’s undoubtedly been a money-maker for Hims & Hers, as well. The company revealed in May that its weight loss offering is tracking to surpass $100 million in revenue by the end of 2025 and is growing faster than any specialty in its history. For the third quarter of 2024, Hims & Hers reported revenue of $401.6 million, a remarkable 77% increase year-over-year, and revealed that its subscriber base grew to 2 million, marking a 44% rise.

Impressive numbers, considering that access to branded GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic) remains a struggle for many Americans due to shortages, particularly in states where obesity rates are higher. That’s a secondary area Hims & Hers is trying to correct, having introduced a GLP-1 Supply Tracker for individuals to share their experience and provide a clear picture to the Food and Drug Administration of the demand for the popular medications. 

“Our customers have demonstrated a clear gap in supply and demand, so we’re making it easy for everyone to share their experience and be a part of advocating for better access to the medications they need,” Hims & Hers CEO and co-founder Andrew Dudum said. “Part of our responsibility to the millions of customers who trust us with their healthcare is to understand the scale of the challenges they face and use our platform to combat them.”

More recently, Hims & Hers launched high-protein meal replacement bars and shakes for customers either on GLP-1 medications or looking to manage their weight. 

Experts agree that relying solely on weight loss medication without correcting lifestyle habits may limit success long-term, opening the door for fitness and wellness companies to meet new needs. In the meantime, leading brands such as Life Time, Xponential’s Lindora, Equinox, Noom and Echelon are gearing up, as JP Morgan projects that around 9% of the U.S. population (30 million) will eventually become a GLP-1 user in just six short years.

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Despite barriers like limited insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs, consumers are embracing weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, with some drugs seeing fills more than double in the past year, according to recent findings from GoodRx.

The blockbuster medications – which have impacted everything from food, telehealth services offering compounded alternatives and muscle mass-supporting fitness regimens — show no signs of slowing down. Fueling demand is the fact that nearly half of U.S. adults (45%) in 2023 revealed they’d be interested in taking weight loss medications, according to a KFF poll.

GoodRx’s newly released data highlights the gap between consumer interest in taking the popular drugs and affordability, but presents a pathway that Americans can take in saving money. 

Here are some key takeaways from the prescription savings platform’s new findings:

• Fills for Wegovy and Zepbound have risen by over 100% and 300%, respectively, since the start of 2024.
• GoodRx found some regional trends emerging regarding the popularity of weight-loss medications. According to the cost-savings platform, prescriptions for Type 2 diabetes drugs like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Victoza are higher in Southern states such as Oklahoma, Alabama, Louisiana and Texas.
• In the Northeast, states like Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Delaware lead in fill rates for medications specifically prescribed for weight loss, like Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, Qsymia and phentermine. Topping all states is Alaska, which has the highest combined fill rate for weight-loss medications in the U.S., according to the prescription savings platform.
• Despite the popularity of weight-loss medications, commercial insurance providers offer limited coverage for Americans. According to GoodRx, only 26% of individuals with commercial insurance have unrestricted access to Ozempic, while 71% face additional requirements such as prior authorization or step therapy. The findings also show that 18% of those with commercial insurance have no coverage at all for at least one brand-name GIP and GLP-1 agonist specified for weight loss. 
• Lastly, Americans have overspent by at least $200 million in the past year by paying full price for GIP and GLP-1 medications. However, the platform reports that individuals without insurance can save an average of $250 per month by using GoodRx.

“GLP-1 and GIP medications have proven extremely effective in helping reduce and manage weight in overweight individuals, yet many health insurance plans lack necessary coverage and create cost barriers for many people in need,” GoodRx director of research Tori Marsh said. “Our latest findings reveal that Americans overspent by hundreds of millions on these essential treatments in 2024 alone. At GoodRx, we’re committed to bridging this gap by offering significant savings, ensuring that more people can afford their necessary medications.”

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Connected fitness leader Echelon has launched ActiveMD, a wellness division offering weight loss medication such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus to qualified individuals and under medical supervision.

It’s a move that may not be surprising, considering the impact of blockbuster weight-loss drugs and the consumer shift toward longevity-supporting measures. However, it makes Echelon one of the first—if not the first—fitness equipment companies to roll out such a program.

“We are focused on integrating health care into our business so that we create a holistic approach to health and wellness, supporting customer needs throughout their journey,” Echelon CEO Lou Lentine said. “Weight loss has become a significant component to managing a person’s overall wellness. By combining GLP-1s, immune health regimen, and metabolism boosts with Echelon Fitness programs that focus on the individual’s goals, ActiveMD will help you lose unwanted weight and stay healthy without losing muscle mass.”  

Existing Echelon members receive exclusive savings on weight-loss medications, while new customers gain a free one-year FitPass membership with their first prescription, providing unlimited access to thousands of live and on-demand workouts.

Dr. Tzvi Doron, a board-certified family physician and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, noted that the obesity epidemic has reached “crisis levels,” with over 40% of the U.S. population having obesity and another 30% in the overweight category.

“We must use our position as industry leaders to provide solutions for those seeking help,” Dr. Doron said. “Pairing GLP-1 weight loss with resistance training can help maintain muscle mass and maximize health benefits. ActiveMD/Echelon Fit’s programs are the perfect complement to GLP-1s for those seeking to lose weight while maintaining muscle mass and strength.”

While Echelon’s new push into weight loss signals a new frontier, the company is still churning out compelling equipment. Echelon recently debuted Strength Home, a freestanding, connected, at-home strength training system that provides guided and customized workouts with easy-to-adjust resistance levels.

Echelon’s bold move may soon be mirrored by other fitness equipment brands. Already, industry leaders like luxury country club brand Life Time and boutique fitness franchisor Xponential Fitness have staked their claims in the wellness space with offerings like Miora and Lindora, respectively.

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Noom is adding in-app body scan technology that will help GLP-1 users measure important body composition metrics, track progress, and monitor possible muscle mass loss.

The digital healthcare company partnered with AI and machine learning company Prism Labs to provide the new body scan technology, which uses a smartphone camera.

“GLP-1s are highly effective in driving weight loss, however, much of the weight lost is actually muscle mass,” Noom CEO Geoff Cook said. Last year, Cook was named Noom’s CEO as the platform began its push into the weight loss medication space.

“Our partnership with Prism Labs makes accurate body mapping available to everyone,” Cook continued. “Our Muscle Defense fitness program emphasizes resistance training, and our thousands of high-protein recipes encourage healthy eating, but we needed a simple and accurate way to monitor muscle-mass retention. Now we have it. Now everyone on Noom can gain the body intelligence to live better longer.”

Members record a 10-second body scan video with the Noom app. The AI then analyzes the video, determines precise body composition measurements, and creates a personalized 3D body avatar. Machine-learning software then calculates the user’s body composition and metrics such as body fat percentage, fat mass, waist-to-hip ratio, and lean mass. The data is used to create a comprehensive health report and visualization.  

The new body scan and health report feature will become available to all Noom Healthy Weight and Noom Med subscribers in the coming weeks.

“Noom is an ideal partner because of their focus on using the best technology to empower everyone, everywhere, to live better longer,” Prism Labs CEO Steve Raymond said. “We built our platform to provide anyone with a smartphone with precise, accurate body composition information and health insights that were previously only available using expensive hardware. We’re thrilled to help Noom personalize their programming and empower and motivate their users to take control of their health while making our technology accessible to many millions of people.”

Noom’s New Enterprise Weight Loss Products

Noom has also launched two new pathways for employers to provide their team members with weight loss medications: Noom Med with Smart Rx, a partnership with Waltz Health and Noom Weight with GLP-1 Rx.

Noom Med with Smart Rx offers direct and cost-effective access to GLP-1 medications, where employers can cover the drugs as a supplemental benefit. Noom Weight with GLP-1 Rx, on the other hand, gives employers the option to offer weight loss support in the form of Noom’s behavior change program with the option to receive a discount on non-branded GLP-1 medications, such as the digital healthcare company’s compounded semaglutide product.

Both products will be available to employers in January 2025.

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Sima Sistani is out as CEO and director of WeightWatchers, the weight loss company announced Friday. 

Board member Tara Comonte, who has served as CEO of TMRW Life Sciences and president and CFO of Shake Shack, has been appointed interim CEO. 

Last month, WeightWatchers reported lackluster second-quarter results and lowered its full-year outlook. At the time, Sistani described a “rapidly changing landscape” and said the company would reimagine its operations, which included layoffs. 

“On behalf of the board, I want to sincerely thank Sima for her leadership in advancing our strategy, for adding WeightWatchers Clinic to our offerings, and for her unwavering commitment to our mission,” said Thilo Semmelbauer, chairman of the WeightWatchers board of directors. “We wish her all the best in her future endeavors.”

Sistani had served as CEO of WeightWatchers for two years. Last April, the company acquired telehealth provider Sequence, giving members of WeightWatchers access to popular GLP-1 weight loss medications such as Ozempic.

Semmelbauer welcomed Comonte, who also serves on the boards of Kindbody and Strava, as WeightWatchers’ interim CEO.

“Her proven ability to lead cross-functional transformations and drive growth, coupled with her deep understanding of our mission and commitment to our members, give us full confidence that she is the right leader to steer WeightWatchers through this pivotal moment and position the company for sustained success,” Semmelbauer said.

Comonte remarked that she looks forward to partnering with the WeightWatcher’s leadership team and board as the brand expands access and care. 

“WeightWatchers is a strong, globally recognized business with a proven track record of success and competitive leadership advantage,”‘ the new interim CEO said. “I am confident that we have the right team in place and are focused on the right strategies to drive growth while staying true to our mission to empower members to live healthier, longer lives.”

In a post on her LinkedIn page, Sistani referred to the news as “bittersweet” and wrote that it’s “time for the hand-off.”

“After all the hard, intentional work of transforming this 61-year-old company’s vision and mission, I’m passing the baton to my dear friend Tara Comonte, who’s going to lead WeightWatchers in this next chapter,” Sistani wrote. “But this is hardly goodbye: Just like any good teammate, I’m so excited to meet you all at the finish line—victorious, as I’ve always known we would be.” 

While investors are bullish on weight loss medications, shares of WeightWatchers have taken a hit and are now trading under $1.

The storied company also saw the exit of Oprah Winfrey from its board earlier this year. The talk show titan revealed in 2023 that she was taking weight loss medication and hosted an ABC primetime special, “An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution,” this past March.

Winfrey had served on the board for nearly a decade. In an interview with ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel, she noted that she decided to exit the WeightWatchers’ orbit so she could speak freely on her special.

“I decided that because this special was really important to me and I wanted to be able to talk about whatever I want to talk about,” Winfrey said. “WeightWatchers is now in the business of being a weight health company that also administers drug medications for weight; I did not want to have the appearance of any conflict of interest.”

Earlier this month, WeightWatchers appointed Scott Honken as chief commercial officer and Phillip Picardi as chief impact officer.

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Chances are good that if you stroll through the wellness aisle at your local retailer, there’s a plethora of new vitamins, minerals and supplements (VMS) on the shelves catering to various needs and demographics. From products geared towards female consumers to those looking to lure young buyers with splashy graphics and bright colors, it’s what industry analysts say is an “active space” for both early-stage investors and strategic acquirers. 

But what wellness themes are driving the charge? And what attributes are investors eyeing for in VMS products? A new report from XRC Ventures has the answers.

The venture capital firm conducted a deep dive into the VMS space, which has blossomed as Americans become increasingly health-conscious and content to spend their hard-earned dollars on supplements that promise enhanced performance and recovery. There’s an undeniable energy within the VMS arena, fueled partly by social media-influencers-turned-entrepreneurs who have captured Gen Z’s attention (and wallets) as they launch products to a ready-made audience.

Case in point: Bloom Nutrition, a greens and superfoods supplement brand founded by fitness and wellness influencer Mari Llewellyn, who rose to social media fame with her weight loss journey. After launching Bloom, which quickly went viral on TikTok, major retailers like Target took note, adding the brand to their shelves and online stores. Earlier this year, health and wellness company Nutrabolt (maker of C4 Energy) acquired a 20% stake in Bloom as part of a larger $90 million financing.

While the road from influencer to fitness and wellness entrepreneur seems like a sure bet, analysts are particularly bullish on specific health themes. As investors look for clinical studies and a strong brand, here are the leading categories from XRC’s Q2 Seed-to-Series A benchmark VMS report:

The Ozempic Effect

Ozempic and other weight loss drugs, which have quickly disrupted the diet industry, have not only helped consumers slim down and gain control of their health but have contributed to the broader destigmatization of weight loss, according to XRC. 

One contributing factor is the name recognition that weight loss medications have brought forth (such as Oprah and other celebrities and influencers). With continued destigmatization, XRC projects that there will be a demand for non-prescription alternatives as well as the need for supplements to address nutrient gaps stemming from weight loss drug use – such as brands like AG1. Supergut, on the other hand, is focused on naturally boosting GLP-1, resulting in a lighter appetite.  

Mushroom Boom

The homeopathic wellness scene has quickly expanded from the aisles of independently owned specialty alternative health stores to Walmart, with nootropics, adaptogens and mushrooms becoming commonplace. 

The wellness boom has introduced the average consumer to a whole new world of products promising sharpened focus, better sleep and stress optimization — and they are on board. Spacegoods is one of the many mushroom brands that have emerged, known for its colorful packaging and catchy product names like “Rainbow Dust.” More recently, Travis Barker’s wellness brand, Barker Wellness, added mushroom gummies to its product line up as it expands into Sprouts grocery stores nationwide.

As XRC points out, interest in mushrooms and adaptogens has grown substantially, and mushroom-based supplements are expected to grow 6x between 2018 and 2027. Notably, XRC says that supplement sales for cognitive health scored the highest sales-growth rates in 2023 — and have staying power.

Femtech Revolution

Until recently, women (who drive over 70-80% of the purchase decisions) have long been neglected in terms of having alternatives to birth control and supportive products related to fertility, menstruation and menopause. 

But the surge in women-related startups in the femtech space leads XRC to anticipate that there could be massive growth, citing Spins marketing insights director Scott Dicker, who said he’d be shocked if there isn’t double-digit growth for women’s health products in 2024.

Longevity

Taking steps to support longevity means more than peptide treatments; 45% of American consumers are taking supplements to slow aging. While Gen Z may get all of the attention for their health and wellness quest, XRC points out that it’s the Boomers who are especially interested in finding ways to live longer and thrive.

It’s also becoming easier than ever to custom-create supplement regimens with technology. London-based Bioniq uses AI and bloodmarker data to recommend ultra-personalized supplements to consumers – an approach that has won over investors. The startup recently secured $15 million in an oversubscribed Series B round. 

Pill Alternatives

Gummies have become the most popular supplement form, but new alternatives — such as mints, patches and oral strips — are also emerging for their ease of use, lowered sugar content and faster absorption.  

The Good Patch and the Patch Brand are two of the brands looking to make their mark as convenient ways to get daily doses of vitamins or even a caffeine boost.

Mood and Mental Health

Stress and mental health remain two of the top concerns for American consumers, leading to a market ripe for remedies that combat anxiety. Even beverages that are typically centered on performance are integrating stress-relief ingredients such as ashwagandha. Momentous, a human performance and nutrition company, debuted Elite Recovery this year as a post-workout drink that includes creatine but also ashwagandha to lower cortisol levels. 

Apothékary, a plant-powered and woman-owned business that landed a $500,000 investment from Solidcore founder Anne Mahlum, also offers a line of stress relief products in the form of wine-free tonics. 

Performance Nutrition and Hydration

While functional nutrition and hydration certainly aren’t new products, XRC sees a “spate of startups” in the space that target female consumers or offered as low-sugar products. Despite its growth potential, it may be a challenge for companies to carve out a niche.

“While we continue to monitor this rapidly growing category—up 27% in 2023—we believe it’s a competitive space where it’s difficult to find compelling differentiation to truly stand out from the pack,” XRC’s report states.  

One of the latest hydration brands to hit the market is Cadence, a zero-calorie drink that bills itself as the first ready-to-drink mineral salt-based hydration beverage that secured over $100 million in funding.

Beauty from the Inside

Lastly, XRC sees a crossover between beauty and wellness, which led to a 210% year-over-year increase in supplement sales in 2021. While this category hit a snag in 2023 with a 7% decline as consumers became interested in gut health and digestion, supplements are being widely used for improved hair, skin and nails, according to the venture capital firm.

In the meantime, brands like Solluna Glowing Greens are making it easy for consumers to get their vegetables — and their glow.

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SoWell, the metabolic health supplement distributor, is providing some extra balance for those riding the Ozempic wave. 

The brand is launching a three-part GLP-1 support system that mitigates GLP-1 side effects to help users stay on the medication. The Ozempic market is currently valued at $10 billion, according to SoWell. One in every eight Americans also takes Ozempic/GLP-1s for reasons beyond weight loss, such as alleviating other illnesses, according to a KFF Health Tracking poll from May of this year. 

This support system aims to assist that demographic, as SoWell also reports that 70% of users stop taking their GLP-1 medication after just one year due to limited help addressing its side effects. One of the most common setbacks stemming from GLP-1 usage is the loss of lean muscle mass.

“If weight loss is a goal, regardless of the intervention, it’s crucial to have the best tools and the right information to ensure beneficial and lasting results,” said Dr. Rekha Kumar, speaking on her strength training program for people experiencing weight loss from GLP-1s. “The last thing we want to see is people experiencing weight loss with medication while also losing muscle and decreasing their cardio-metabolic fitness in the process.”

SoWell combats that and more with this support system based on clinical research from founder Dr. Alexandra Sowa’s decade-long experience working with GLP-1 patients. The product includes 17 ingredients said to dilute side effects brought on by GLP-1s, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, headaches, weakened skin elasticity, hair loss and muscle loss.

“As a physician specializing in internal and obesity medicine, I have spent over a decade working with
GLP-1 patients and understanding their unique needs and challenges,” said Dr. Sowa. “But other products on the market didn’t meet my standards and weren’t developed for GLP-1 users. There is a critical gap in the market when it comes to addressing the side effects an specific requirements of GLP-1 users on their weight loss journey. The SoWell GLP-1 Support System is designed to support and enhance the effectiveness of GLP-1 therapies while helping users achieve their health goals more comfortably and effectively.”

The system breaks down into three parts: SoWell Electrolytes, SoWell Protein and SoWell Fiber. SoWell Electrolytes mainly targets nausea and fatigue with Vitamin B6 and trace minerals. SoWell Protein focuses on maintaining muscle mass, skin elasticity and hair density with whey isolate, collagen protein and digestive enzymes while SoWell Fiber promotes long-term gut health and balances the digestive process with psyllium husk, guar gum and apple pectin fiber.

All are available separately or packaged together. They are all low-sugar, low-carbohydrate and possess zero artificial flavors, coloring or sweeteners. 

This launch from SoWell comes at a pivotal time, as GLP-1 suppliers are growing in accordance with the increased demand. Hims & Hers Health made the medication available to consumers earlier this summer. Ivim at Work even just launched a GLP-1 corporate wellness program. 

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FuturHealth, a weight-loss solutions company, has announced the launch of its Custom Meal Plans. GLP-1 medications, which are predicted to be used by 9% of the U.S. population by 2035, have drastically changed the wellness landscape. With many consumers confused about how to pair weight loss with nutrition, FuturHealth’s Custom Meal Plans seek to provide additional support.

“As the wellness industry moves away from quick fixes and embraces holistic approaches, FuturHealth is at the forefront of this transformation. We combine the latest scientific advancements with consumer needs, providing a comprehensive 360-degree lifestyle solution,” said Sabrina Burgi, chief operating officer of FuturHealth. “Our Custom Meal Plans exemplify our commitment to innovation in weight management. By pairing nutrition with medication, we address the uncertainty many face regarding dietary changes while on GLP-1s, promoting a healthier lifestyle during and after their use.”

FuturHealth notes that GLP-1 medications are effective for up to 20% of body weight loss before reaching a plateau. FuturHealth provides personalized meal plans to alleviate these dietary uncertainties for GLP-1 users for sustainable weight loss. Meals include options like Kickin’ Chicken Fried Rice, Southwestern Style Scramble, Cheesy Turkey Rotini, and Ancient Grain Bowl, among others.

With a growing customer base and over 1 million consumers who have successfully lost weight, FuturHealth provides personalized guidance from a network of 6,000 physicians, including MDs and RDs. The company also uses AI technology to manage the medication journey, scheduling necessary blood work 15 days in advance and sending reminders via app and text. The platform maintains a flexible supply chain with MSOs and pharmacies

“Our new Custom Meal Plans are developed by top dietitians and chefs, ensuring high-quality, nutritionally balanced meals that support our customers’ wellness goals effectively and sustainably,” added Burgi. “This launch marks a significant milestone in our journey to redefine the future of health and nutrition.”

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If 2023 was the year of Ozempic and rapid weight loss, 2024 is shaping up to be the year of safeguarding lean muscle mass.

The promises and popularity of weight loss drugs have caused shrinking waistlines and crippled junk food sales. Still, their effectiveness has come with one downside that has many fitness trainers and medical experts concerned: the potential loss of lean muscle mass. 

Although fitness and wellness industry leaders such as Xponential Fitness, Life Time and Restore Hyper Wellness have embraced GLP-1 services, others are signing on to support weight-loss medication users on their journey by encouraging strength-building and maintaining lean muscle mass.

Leading the way in 2024 is luxury fitness and wellness brand Equinox, which unveiled a personal training program for clients on weight-loss medications shortly after the new year. In addition to mitigating muscle loss, the new program will also help consumers build long-lasting health habits. 

Joining Equinox are several other well-known names in the health and wellness space, all aiming to counteract the unwanted muscle-loss side effects experienced by many GLP-1 users.  

Noom, FitOn Add ‘Muscle Defense’

Digital healthcare company Noom pushed into the market-disrupting weight loss medication space last year with the launch of Noom Med, an obesity care program that uses telehealth services to pair qualified patients with GLP-1 prescribing physicians. 

The digital health company has now expanded its approach, this time in a more holistic way — partnering with digital health and fitness platform FitOn to add a “Muscle Defense” component to its new Noom GLP-1 Companion. 

The program, meant to combat muscle mass loss, is slated to be available this spring.

Although Noom notes the effectiveness of weight loss medications, the digital healthcare platform warns of the problems that can arise if the medications aren’t used in tandem with muscle-building exercises and a high-protein diet.

“We designed Noom GLP-1 Companion with Muscle Defense to be the adjunct diet and exercise program that addresses key dangers associated with taking GLP-1s such as loss of muscle mass,” said Noom CEO Geoff Cook, who joined the company last year. “We believe prescribing the drug without such a program carries dangers, given the amount of muscle mass people often lose while taking a GLP-1 and the fact that most people will stop taking the GLP-1 and regain the weight absent of behavior change, which can potentially lead to future conditions like sarcopenic obesity.”

He added that Noom GLP-1 Companion with Muscle Defense offers protein-tracking, resistance training, behavior change, and expert guidance to promote a healthier outcome when taking GLP-1s.

“It’s critical we not leave people worse off than before they started the medication,” Cook added. “Healthy habits have never mattered more.”

The new Muscle Defense program incorporates FitOn resistance training exercises that combat sarcopenic obesity and help prevent the reduction of important lean muscle mass.  

“This partnership with Noom combines FitOn’s best-in-class fitness content with Noom’s expert nutrition tracking and guidance to help people taking GLP-1s build muscle mass and set them up for a more successful long-term weight loss journey,” said Lindsay Cook, co-founder and CEO of FitOn.

Obé Fitness, Found Team for ‘MuscleGuard’ 

Streaming fitness platform Obé and Found, a medically-assisted weight care program, have partnered to launch MuscleGuard, a progressive strength training program for those experiencing rapid weight loss from GLP-1s.

Designed to prevent muscle loss and improve body composition, the new program includes the expertise of fitness trainer Melody D. and Dr. Rekha Kumar, Found’s chief medical officer and former medical director of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

“If weight loss is a goal, regardless of the intervention, it’s crucial to have the best tools and the right information to ensure beneficial and lasting results,” Dr. Kumar said. “The last thing we want to see is people experiencing weight loss with medication while also losing muscle and decreasing their cardio-metabolic fitness in the process.”

MuscleGuard is available on the Obé app or on the web. The new program breaks down its strength training and fitness guidance system into phases, suitable for those new to fitness and experienced fitness enthusiasts.

“Understanding that each individual’s fitness needs and preferences are unique, especially for those losing weight quickly, we’ve developed MuscleGuard,” said Ashley Mills, co-founder & co-CEO of Obé Fitness. “This innovative program is specifically designed to prevent muscle loss, helping people build strength and confidence.”

GNC Debuts Weight Loss Supplement 

Taking a different approach, health and wellness giant GNC has introduced Total Lean GlucaTrim — an over-the-counter weight loss supplement intended to maintain lean muscle mass while supporting healthy blood sugar and insulin levels.

“The team at GNC is hyper-focused on our customers’ health, recognizing the increasing demand for effective weight loss,” said Rachel Jones, MS RDN and senior vice president, chief product innovation and science officer at GNC. “GNC Total Lean GlucaTrim gives consumers an affordable, non-prescription, botanical-focused supplement that’s backed by a team of scientists and dietitians who are passionate about helping people reach their weight loss goals.”

The health and wellness retailer says its new supplement incorporates a metabolism-boosting botanical blend, a leaf extract that balances blood glucose and insulin after a meal, Chromax to promote optimum glucose and insulin levels, and Berberine to help with blood sugar and weight reduction.

The caffeine-free supplement is meant to be taken daily before the two largest meals of the day, accompanied by a healthy diet and exercise plan.  

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Luxury fitness and wellness brand Equinox is starting the new year with a personal training program designed for clients on popular weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy or who are interested in using GLP-1s.

The famed fitness club is one of the first to roll out such a program in response to the market-disrupting impact of weight loss medications. 

“We’re creating an internal education program at the Equinox Fitness Training Institute, adding the GLP1 protocol to coach the many members using them,” Equinox club coach Michael Crandall told People.com, which first reported the new program. “The drugs work so well, but we felt like something really important was missing for our clients on them. Weight loss interventions should always be done with a training program to get the best results.”

Crandall is leading the new program, a move following Equinox recently adding a Health Advisory Board featuring a panel of medical and wellness experts designed to support Equinox Fitness Training Institute, which offers accredited curriculum and board certification for performance coaches. 

Fitness Brands Embrace Ozempic

While Equinox isn’t directly offering weight loss medications like Life Time or Xponential Fitness, which recently acquired Lindora health clinics, targeting clientele using the injectables can also prove lucrative. The numbers speak for themselves: roughly 3.6 million patients in the U.S. with insurance had a prescription claim for a GLP-1 in 2022, found Trilliant Health.

And while GLP-1s are causing consumers to shed weight rapidly, it does come with a price — losing weight too quickly can cause medication users to lose valuable lean muscle mass. Equinox’s fitness coaches will learn how to create workout plans for those experiencing GLP-1 side effects, helping them mitigate any muscle loss through aerobic or anaerobic conditioning or strength training, Crandall explained. 

However, a crucial component of Equinox’s new program is empowering clients to cultivate better habits and lead a healthy lifestyle for the long haul.

“Our clients are thinking weight loss for the long term, and they’re very motivated to keep the weight off,” he told People. “What we’re doing in empowering them so when they ease themselves off, they won’t be nervous or worried they’re just going to put it right back on.”

In tandem with the rise of GLP-1s, fitness and wellness enthusiasts are seeking customized experiences under the guidance of a coach, whether it’s for fitness, nutrition or both. Last spring, the luxury lifestyle and fitness brand announced plans to hire 5,000 fitness coaches in response to demand for personal training services. 

The post Equinox Designs Training Program for Members on Weight Loss Drugs appeared first on Athletech News.

Hims & Hers is joining the weight loss sector by the end of the year, but instead of rushing to prescribe Ozempic and Wegovy, the telehealth company will take a conservative approach, relying instead on a range of generic medications, nutritional benefits and behavioral health from a mobile app.

In an interview with Fox Business, Hims & Hers co-founder and CEO Andrew Dudum revealed that the new weight loss platform will roll out just in time for consumers to kickstart their health and wellness journeys in January 2024.

As for defining “generic medications,” Dudum told Fox Business that there’s a wide range of medications that have been around for nearly two decades, in contrast to the new weight loss medications that have hit the market.

“If you go to those really fancy clinics out in Beverly Hills or New York, you’ll be able to find doctors who know how to use them and know how to find the underlying issues that you as an individual might be facing, and that might be why it’s causing weight gain. So our aim is to use these medicines that have been around for a long time and help you get access to them at affordable prices and hopefully get great outcomes,” he explained.

As for taking it slow, as opposed to other companies that have embraced GLP-1s, Dudum says Hims & Hers is trying to be “respectful” of the consumer.

“The  GLP-1s that everybody is really excited about — they should be excited about them,” he said. “These have 15-20% weight loss for an individual, but the reality is they are very new. The studies have been around for nine months or 12 months… We hold trust and safety in the highest regard, and we want to make sure whatever we offer on the platform is going to be reliable, it’s going to be affordable, it’s going to be safe.”

Dudum added that the reported side effects of GLP-1s are concerning to some consumers and he pointed to supply chain issues as well. Still, the Hims & Hers CEO doesn’t appear to be fully ruling out the popular weight loss medications — and likely for good reason. Some analysts suggest that the weight loss drug market may be worth $100 billion by 2030, fueled in large part by drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.

“We need to figure out those things and once we (do), Hims & Hers will have a big range of those products,” Dudum said of GLP-1s.

In addition to the weight management plans, the telehealth company reported an impressive Q2, with revenue of $207.9 million, up 83% from the prior-year period. Hims & Hers grew its subscriber base to 1.3 million, up 74% year-over-year in the quarter.

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Jenny Craig, the famed weight loss and nutrition company that folded this past May, is getting a second chance to hit it big in the wellness industry after being acquired by Wellful Inc.

As a direct-to-consumer and omnichannel health and wellness company, Wellful Inc. says Jenny Craig is slated to make a comeback this fall with a DTC delivery model with tasty, nutritious food and personalized coaching. 

While terms of the deal were not disclosed, numerous reports reveal that court documents from the recent acquisition show Jenny Craig’s intellectual property priced at up to $10 million.

Wellful also owns Nutrisystem but confirms it will manage Jenny Craig separately as an independent brand. In addition to Nutrisystem, Wellful’s vast portfolio also includes wellness brands such as Peptiva, Instaflex, Nugenix, Super Beta Prostate and Dr. Sinatra.

Just three months ago, Jenny Craig emailed employees that the weight loss brand would lay off all employees before officially announcing that it would go out of business. By May 5, Jenny Craig filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. 

Brandon Adcock, CEO of Wellful, commented that more than ever before, consumers are seeking integrated and convenient health and wellness solutions, especially those that are delivered quickly to their door. 

Adcock says the acquisition will allow the e-commerce supply chain to meet consumers’ expectations. 

“We will allow customers to access all the things that made Jenny Craig successful – the food, the structure, the program, the coaching – while providing access to our broader portfolio of health & wellness solutions to empower customers to live happier, healthier lives,” Adcock said.

“Over the last 40 years, Jenny Craig has been committed to helping people lose weight and live healthier lives, and this acquisition not only reaffirms, but strengthens that commitment,” he added. “The Wellful platform is comprised of brands that help consumers achieve clinically validated outcomes. Simply put, consumers come to us to achieve their goals and they expect results. We couldn’t be more excited to bring that same experience to past and future Jenny Craig customers.”

Jenny Craig’s website currently features a landing page announcing the news that the beloved weight loss company would be coming to homes this fall via delivery. 

If comments on social media are any indication, former Jenny Craig followers appear excited over the news of the upcoming fall return.

“I will definitely be into this,” wrote one poster on Facebook. “I love the food and delivery is the way to go for me. I hope it’s early fall and not closer to winter. I would sign up next week if I could.”

Jenny Craig’s transition to e-commerce signals a larger trend others have recently followed, with wellness going digital and, at times, injectable.

Earlier this year, WeightWatchers announced the acquisition of Sequence, a telehealth provider that gives clients access to diabetes and weight loss medications such as Ozempic. The deal, valued at $132 million, is the first of its kind for WeightWatchers and one that its CEO, Sima Sistani, called a natural next step, especially in light of the advancements in chronic weight management medications. It’s also a lucrative move, as industry experts suggest that the weight loss drug market is expected to hit $100 billion by 2030. 

While many WeightWatchers members were pleased with the additional offering, other devotees were mixed on the new pivot, especially as the wellness company said it would cut back in-person meetings.

While Jenny Craig is expected to return this fall, the DTC meal model can prove challenging, as Freshly, a Nestlé-acquired meal delivery service, discovered.

Freshly closed its operations in January after being acquired by Nestlé in 2020 in a $1.5 billion deal. At one point, the meal delivery company that focused on limiting sugar and processed ingredients was shipping over a million meals each week.

Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider acknowledged the decline of Freshly in an investor seminar late last year, indicating that it was a deal that didn’t fully meet Nestlé’s objectives. 

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Novo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy and Ozempic, is taking aim at medical spas and wellness clinics in the U.S. for selling products claiming to contain semaglutide, a key ingredient in the company’s weight-loss and diabetes drugs.

The manufacturer announced a multi-action strategy that it says protects patients in the U.S. from the unlawful marketing and sale of non-FDA-approved “counterfeit and compounded” semaglutide products. 

The Danish multinational pharmaceutical company is the only company in the U.S. with FDA-approved products containing the ingredient, including Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus, which are only available by prescription. 

Novo Nordisk filed lawsuits in federal courts in New York, Texas, Florida, and Tennessee, naming five spas and clinics, according to CNBC. The company is requesting that the sales of the knockoff medications be halted and is seeking an unspecified amount of monetary damages. 

Novo Nordisk says establishments that sell counterfeit semaglutide products have created a “high risk of consumer confusion,” deception, and potential safety concerns.

In a statement, the company points out that compounded products don’t have the same safety, quality and efficacy assurances as its FDA-approved drugs.

“Our priority is to ensure that patients have a safe and positive experience with our FDA-approved semaglutide medicines, and these actions are a direct reflection of that focus,” said Doug Langa, executive vice president, North America operations and president of Novo Nordisk. “We believe it’s important to provide additional tools and education to support the proper use of our approved semaglutide products and create broad public awareness regarding the difference between our FDA-approved medicines and other products being labeled as semaglutide.”

The FDA recently issued guidance regarding medications containing semaglutide, reminding consumers that compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and that it received adverse event reports after patients used compounded semaglutide. 

Incentives to fake?

The weight-loss drug industry is booming, sending traditional weight management services such as Jenny Craig packing. Even WeightWatchers, a household name for weight loss, has pivoted from in-person meetings to semaglutide. This past spring, the company acquired Sequence, a telehealth service provider, so its members can access weight-loss and diabetes drugs.

While the medications can help consumers lose weight, they are also padding the pockets of investors. 

According to a research note issued by Barclays, the weight-loss drug industry could be worth $100 billion by 2030 and possibly even $200 billion within the next decade.  

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With summer fast approaching, weight loss is on many people’s minds. After a resurgence of the body-positivity movement in the last few years, the pendulum seems to have swung the other way with the rise of weight-loss medications. 

With the majority of United States adults classified as overweight or obese, the burgeoning weight-loss market could be worth around $100 billion by 2030. The medical cost of obesity in particular is high, having hit nearly $173 billion in 2019, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

GLP-1 medications support weight loss by sending signals to the brain and body that make patients feel full and satiated longer. Clinical trials revealed that patients could anticipate losing around 10-18% of their body weight. 

Many large healthcare players are entering the market. WeightWatchers recently moved into the obesity drug market with its acquisition of Sequence; Teladoc recently expanded its provider-based service for employers to include weight management and prediabetes services.

Ro, the direct-to-patient digital healthcare company, announced Ro Body earlier this spring, which provides access to GLP-1 medications. For the Ro Body program, patients begin by completing an online visit that covers their health history and goals, an at-home metabolic test that they mail to a lab for processing and a video consultation with a provider. Patients then get two dozen provider consultations a year and track their weight loss with a connected scale in addition to receiving medications. Ro focuses on a holistic and convenient approach to providing access to GLP-1s. 

Diet companies are suffering

Other businesses have suffered due to the rise of GLP-1s. Jenny Craig, once a popular weight-loss brand that had celebrity endorsers like Queen Latifah, Mariah Carey and Jason Alexander, recently closed up shop after forty years in business. Its closure is likely connected with the rise of GLP-1s, as many consumers have grown impatient or disenfranchised with the long-held beliefs that diet and exercise are the best way to weight loss.

According to an e-mail received by Jenny Craig employees, the company will close due to its inability to secure additional funding. Investors’ lack of interest indicates the larger market shift towards GLP-1s, as do the strategic transitions of companies like WeightWatchers.

Consumers may have been frustrated by the high cost of nutritional programs like Jenny Craig, which most recently ranged from $97.93 to $203 per week, according to a 2023 report by Forbes, and may not have been as effective as GLP-1s.  Similarly, the creators of the South Beach Diet announced they were “taking a break” from the home delivery of frozen diet meals and a la carte foods in August 2022. The market of diet industry veterans has changed quickly due to the rise of GLP-1s. 

The science behind weight-loss drugs

Dr. Raoul Manalac, M.D., an obesity expert and senior director of clinical experience for Ro’s Body Program, spoke to Athletech News about the rise of GLP-1s.

“It’s important to remember that GLP-1s are not a quick solution to lose 10 pounds; they are a medication to treat a chronic disease,” Dr. Manalac said. “This medication is not for everyone. They’re best suited for people experiencing obesity with a BMI over 30 who’ve made several previous weight loss attempts, or those with a BMI over 27 with another weight-related health issue.” 

GLP-1s have taken Hollywood by storm. In September 2022, Andy Cohen, the Bravo host and “Real Housewives” executive producer, tweeted: “Everyone is suddenly showing up 25 pounds lighter. What happens when they stop taking #Ozempic ?????” (a popular brand-name GLP-1 drug).

However, for some, GLP-1s are a welcome alternative to bariatric surgery, which is inaccessible to many Americans due to price and limited medical resources. Some potential side effects of the drugs are that they slow down how quickly your stomach empties.

“This action can lead to side effects in your digestive system, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn or other abdominal pain, as well as potential irritation in the area where you inject the shot,” Dr. Manalac said.

The rise of GLP-1s comes at an interesting time due to the larger cultural conversation about weight loss, body image and health. Despite the rise of body positivity, there remains a stigma and bias surrounding obesity. Some argue that treating obesity like a chronic condition is more beneficial to those desiring to lose weight. Barclays recently projected that obesity drugs could be worth $200 billion within the next decade. Time will tell if the drugs continue on this path of popularity, but for now, the drugs’ growth isn’t slowing down. 

The post The Rise of Weight-Loss Medications: Are Diet Companies Doomed? appeared first on Athletech News.

The weight-loss drug industry could be worth $100 billion by 2030 and possibly even $200 billion within the next decade, according to a research note issued by Barclays.

Emily Field, Barclays’ head of European pharmaceuticals equity research, told CNBC that based on investor feedback, Barclays’ previous valuation estimate may have been too conservative, citing obesity as the “story of this decade.”

“We think it can get to a $100 billion market,” predicts Field. “Maybe it could be even double that if this keeps going and we really see higher penetration.”

Last week, a surge in demand for weight-loss drug Wegovy led its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, to announce plans to limit the supply of its starter doses so existing patients have continued access to the medication.

It’s a common story these days: As influencers and celebrities discuss their weight loss wins due to Ozempic (also manufactured by Novo Nordisk) consumers have rushed to get their hands on what has become the holy grail of weight loss and a non-surgical option, to boot. 

The desire and market size for weight-loss solutions is there. With an estimated two out of every three adults in the United States classified as overweight or obese, the demand for weight-loss drugs remains high and shows no signs of slowing down.

Even WeightWatchers has gotten in on the action, pivoting from meetings and point systems to acquiring Sequence, a telehealth provider that provides members with access to diabetes and weight loss drugs. 

Shares of WeightWatchers surged in response, with one Goldman Sachs analyst significantly upgrading his rating on the WeightWatchers stock from $3.80 to $13.

Wegovy could score an even bigger win with heart health

All eyes are on the weight-loss drug manufacturers, particularly Wegovy. 

Just last month, the drug company boosted its full-year operating profit and sales expectations due to the demand for its weight-loss solution. The company also reported a sales increase of 25% in the first three months of 2023 and an operating profit increase of 28%.

And there’s one clinical trial that could increase Wegovy’s value even further.

Novo Nordisk has taken part in a study to see if semaglutide can lower the risk of cardiovascular events in overweight or obese patients with prior cardiovascular disease. 

According to the National Library of Medicine, the study is anticipated to be completed later this year.

Investors are keeping a close eye on the cardiovascular-related study, with Reuters reporting that Barclays analysts predict a positive outcome, which could further boost Wegovy.

Eli Lilly emerges as potential weight-loss winner

While Ozempic and Wegovy have become household names, a new competitor is entering the ring, dubbed by The Wall Street Journal as the “King Kong” of weight loss drugs. 

Meet Mounjaro (the brand name for Tirzepatide), an injectable the FDA has approved for treating adults with type 2 diabetes. Eli Lilly, Mounjaro’s manufacturer, currently has a market value of over $300 billion. 

Mounjaro has helped patients lose up to 16% of their body weight, according to Eli Lilly.

The weight-loss drug company says it will complete its U.S. submission for approval for adults who are obese or overweight with weight-related comorbidities in the coming weeks. The company anticipates regulatory action as early as later this year. 

A non-surgical solution but not without risk

Consumers are intrigued with the idea of trying Ozempic and other weight-loss drugs, says Morning Consult, with roughly 3 in 10 U.S. adults interested. Nearly 40% of Americans have heard of Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, with high earners and current dieters among those with the highest level of brand awareness. 

However, they’re also uncertain about the long-term impact of weight loss injections. There are also considerations to take into account, as the medications can have substantial GI side effects, including gallstones and gallbladder issues.

While short-term weight loss can positively impact overall health, most experts warn that consumers may regain lost weight if they don’t continue taking the medications and/or adopt an entirely new lifestyle. 

The post Shrinking Waists, Sizable Earnings: Weight-Loss Drug Market Estimated at $100 Billion by 2030 appeared first on Athletech News.

America may slim down as shares of WeightWatchers expand.

WeightWatchers’ stock is surging following the completion of its acquisition of Sequence, a move which signals the weight loss company’s shift to adopting prescription drugs.

WW International, formerly known as WeightWatchers International, was trading at $7.35 per share when the market closed Thursday, up 79% from $4.11 on Monday. One Goldman Sachs analyst significantly upgraded his rating on the WeightWatchers stock, raising his target to $13 from $3.80. 

The weight loss company’s acquisition of Sequence is valued at $132 million. Sequence is a telehealth provider that gives users access to diabetes and weight loss drugs, including Ozempic, an injectable used to fight obesity.

The deal allows WeightWatchers members to receive access to drugs that fight obesity alongside a behavior-change program. Members may be prescribed Ozempic and other weight loss drugs that have received significant buzz in recent months. 

The Sequence acquisition is the first of its kind for WeightWatchers, a company founded on the principle that simply writing a script for weight loss medication isn’t the entire solution to addressing obesity. WeightWatchers has been clear that Ozempic and other weight loss drugs can’t replace healthy eating, but can help overall health goals.

It’s a transition that WeightWatchers CEO Sima Sistani says is a natural next step for the household name in weight loss, especially given the advancements in chronic weight management medications. 

“WeightWatchers is at a pivotal point where we can build new capabilities that expand our market, reinforced by our foundational strengths,”Sistani said of the Sequence deal. “Our goal is to provide sustainable, science-backed solutions to all weight health pathways, whether medications are part of an individual’s journey or not.”

Unlike those in Hollywood, WeightWatchers consumers must meet certain criteria, including a specific BMI and medical requirements, to receive a prescription. Anyone over 18 is eligible for Sequence and has the opportunity to meet with a clinician, but there is no guarantee medication will be prescribed. 

That said, there’s a good chance many will be prescribed the weight loss medication, as the CDC has warned that obesity is a “common, serious, and costly disease” and has increased in recent years. The CDC estimated the annual medical cost of obesity was nearly $173 billion in 2019, and medical expenses for adults with obesity are $1,861 higher than medical costs for people with a healthy weight.

WeightWatchers says that by entering the medication management space and incorporating weight loss drugs that address the biological components of obesity, members will have a better chance of long-term weight management and health success.

While some devoted WeightWatchers members reported mixed feelings, especially as the wellness company announced it would cut back on its in-person meetings, others seem to welcome the idea of the brand offering weight loss drugs, according to posts on WeightWatchers’ social media pages. 

The FDA has approved six medications for weight loss management, specifically for those with a BMI greater than 30 (obesity range) and for those with a BMI greater than 27 who also have a qualifying health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. The medications target appetite, suppressing the feeling of hunger, and evidence has shown that this new class of weight loss drugs is very effective when compared to past medications.

While the weight loss drugs aren’t intended for cosmetic reasons, an Ozempic frenzy has occurred in recent months. Once celebrities and influencers took to various social media platforms to share the success of the medication, what was once viewed as a drug reserved for diabetics became a household product. 

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