MyFitnessPal Dives into Weight Loss Drug Support, Launching GLP-1 Medication Tools

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

MyFitnessPal has announced the launch of innovative tools and resources designed to enhance the health and wellness journey of its members using GLP-1 medications, such as Mounjaro®, Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Zepbound™. The new features aim to offer a comprehensive approach to ensure optimal outcomes for users.

The latest update includes a suite of tools that enable members to maintain consistent medication use, proper nutrition, and regular physical activity. Key additions include a vast library of exercise videos tailored to preserve muscle mass, and motivational resources to encourage the consumption and logging of nutrient-dense foods.

"Conscious behavioral and nutrition changes are a critical component for people on GLP-1 medications to enable sustainable health improvements for the long-term," explained Dr. Danielle Belardo, founder of Precision Preventive Cardiology and a member of MyFitnessPal's Scientific Advisory Council. "Staying consistent with medications is step one, but focusing on good quality nutrition while on GLP-1s is a critical part of the patient journey - and tracking helps them stay aware of that."

In response to a survey indicating that 34% of respondents would benefit from more frequent updates on GLP-1 related nutrition content, MyFitnessPal also unveiled a free recipe collection and an in-app Nutrition Plan. This plan, crafted by registered dietitians under the guidance of the Scientific Advisory Council, educates users on how to eat to avoid malnutrition and muscle loss, risks sometimes associated with GLP-1 usage.

Subscribers to the GLP-1 plan will receive daily tips and lessons on managing diet to mitigate side effects, maximize nutrient intake, and maintain overall health during periods of rapid weight loss. These include daily check-ins to track progress, bite-sized lessons on nutritional importance, and customized advice to optimize eating, sleeping, and physical activity routines.

"The weight loss industry is rapidly evolving with GLP-1 medications at the forefront, but still little is known about the nutritional guidelines and wellness recommendations this cohort of patients should be following," noted Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, Founder and Lead Dietitian at Maya Feller Nutrition and a member of MyFitnessPal's Scientific Advisory Council. "My biggest concern is that patients are accessing these medications without additional guidance on nutrition, exercise, mental health, or any other lifestyle changes that should be considered when taking a prescription medication. My patients who are on GLP-1 medications see the best success when they track their food and meet their protein, fiber, and hydration needs, helping to curb side effects, malnutrition, and the loss of muscle mass."

MyFitnessPal also encourages its users on GLP-1 medications to utilize the app for tracking hydration levels and participating in community forums, where they can share experiences and support each other in reaching their health goals.

"At MyFitnessPal, we believe that good nutrition is central to health," stated Mike Fisher, Chief Executive Officer of MyFitnessPal. "In a recent survey we conducted of over 1,000 people in the general population, those who tracked their food alongside GLP-1 medication reported that they were more likely to reach their weight goals than those who did not track. There's a real opportunity and need to provide free nutrition guidance and content to educate a growing population of people accessing GLP-1 medications for weight loss so they have long-term, sustainable outcomes."

With the rise of chronic health issues, including obesity, more fitness and wellness companies are recognizing the necessity of integrating their offerings with medical advancements, such as GLP-1 medications for weight loss. This trend underscores a broader shift towards a more holistic approach to fitness, where physical exercise, nutrition, and medication management converge to meet the comprehensive health needs of the modern consumer. The move by MyFitnessPal signals a growing trend among fitness businesses to pivot and adapt, ensuring they remain at the forefront of a competitive and rapidly changing industry.

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