MARKET WIRE NEWS

Evidence Links 5 & 1 Plan® to Improved Metabolic Health Outcomes

MWN-AI** Summary

Recent findings showcase the Impact of the Medifast Optimal Weight 5 & 1 Plan® on improving metabolic health outcomes beyond mere weight loss. With a staggering 90% of U.S. adults classified as metabolically unhealthy, metabolic dysfunction remains a growing concern linked to various age-related health challenges. Medifast, a reputable health and wellness company with over 40 years of experience, has emphasized its commitment to promoting metabolic wellness through evidence-based strategies.

Significantly, data from a clinical trial revealed that participants on the 5 & 1 plan preserved an impressive 98% of their lean mass over 16 weeks. Lean mass is crucial for optimal metabolic health as it enhances basal metabolic rate (BMR), enabling better energy regulation and weight management. Dr. Holly Lofton, a medical professional involved with Medifast’s Scientific Advisory Board, notes that metabolic dysfunction is an "invisible epidemic" that affects daily life, affecting energy levels, mood, and overall wellness.

Medifast's scientific credibility is underscored by its robust foundation of research, including over 30 studies and numerous peer-reviewed journal publications. The company remains dedicated to advancing its understanding of metabolic health through continued research and clinical application. According to Satya Jonnalagadda, Medifast's Vice President of Scientific & Clinical Affairs, the 5 & 1 Plan not only fosters effective weight loss but also promotes improved long-term metabolic function.

As Medifast gears up for its upcoming Scientific Advisory Board meeting, it seeks to explore further avenues to combat metabolic dysfunction. The company's comprehensive approach combines personalized lifestyle strategies with the support of a network of coaches, underscoring Medifast’s commitment to achieving optimal metabolic health and empowering individuals towards sustainable lifestyle changes.

MWN-AI** Analysis

As a financial analyst, analyzing Medifast Inc. (NYSE: MED) based on its Optimal Weight 5 & 1 Plan® signifies an intriguing investment opportunity, particularly in the context of rising metabolic health concerns among Americans. With 90% of U.S. adults identified as metabolically unhealthy, according to recent studies, the demand for solutions addressing obesity and metabolic dysfunction is more pressing than ever.

Medifast’s commitment to scientific rigor and its expansive research foundation—boasting over 30 studies and peer-reviewed publications—positions it favorably within the health and wellness sector. New findings reveal that participants who engage with the 5 & 1 plan preserve 98% of their lean mass after 16 weeks, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy basal metabolic rate (BMR). This indicates that the plan may not just be a transient weight-loss solution, but a pathway to sustainable metabolic health.

The rising health crisis creates an enhancing backdrop for Medifast’s growth potential. The increasing awareness of metabolic health risks opens up a substantial addressable market for its scientifically-backed programs. Moreover, Medifast's emphasis on community support and personal coaching is likely to translate into strong customer loyalty and recurring revenue.

Looking ahead, as Medifast prepares to unveil further scientific discoveries, investors should monitor its upcoming Scientific Advisory Board meeting closely. Any announcements related to new research could influence stock performance positively by reinforcing the brand's credibility.

In conclusion, Medifast Inc. aligns with a growing shift towards holistic wellness solutions. The combination of scientific backing, a strong market need, and a supportive network could catalyze significant value appreciation in this stock. As such, it might be worthwhile for investors to consider positioning themselves in Medifast, anticipating further developments in metabolic health interventions.

**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.

Source: Business Wire

New data findings show the Optimal Weight 5 & 1 plan ® delivers metabolic health benefits beyond weight loss, helping preserve 98% of lean mass 1

9 out of 10 Americans are metabolically unhealthy, which is an underlying driver of some of the most serious age-related health challenges of our time 2

With more than 90% of U.S. adults classified as metabolically unhealthy 1 , the silent crisis of metabolic dysfunction continues to escalate. This condition can be linked to a range of challenges, including being overweight and having difficulty maintaining energy, vitality and long-term health and wellbeing. To address this issue, Medifast , the 40+ year old health and wellness company known for its science-backed, coach-guided lifestyle system, is reinforcing its commitment to advancing metabolic health through its innovative, clinically supported plans.

New Findings: Preserving Lean Mass, Driving Healthier Outcomes

Analysis of biobank data and a review of thousands of data points from the company’s clinical trial revealed a breakthrough finding: individuals on the company’s 5 & 1 plan preserved 98% of lean mass after 16 weeks on the program 2 . Lean mass is critical for optimal metabolic health because it drives basal metabolic rate (BMR), which supports efficient energy use and helps regulate body weight.

"Metabolic dysfunction is more than just a health issue — it’s an invisible epidemic that impacts energy, mood, hormones, and long-term wellness. When metabolic health is off, everything feels off," said Dr. Holly Lofton, Director of the Medical Weight Management Program at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, where she serves as a practicing physician, and a member of Medifast’s Scientific Advisory Board. “Today, many people are living with the daily consequences of metabolic dysfunction, often without even knowing it. It’s not just about the numbers on the scale; it can be about fatigue that keeps you from playing with your kids, weight that feels impossible to manage, or chronic conditions that chip away at your quality of life.”

Scientific Leadership and the Fight Against Metabolic Dysfunction

With more than four decades of experience, Medifast has built a strong foundation of scientific evidence, including more than 30 research studies, 70+ peer-reviewed scientific abstract presentations and publications, and more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications. The company continues to invest in advancing science through comprehensive literature reviews, exploratory research, and planned future clinical trials — all designed to advance its understanding of optimal metabolic health.

"As the metabolic health crisis has grown, we’ve gone deeper into both our own clinical trial data and the broader body of research,” said Satya Jonnalagadda, PhD, MBA, RDN, Vice President of Scientific & Clinical Affairs at Medifast. “The evidence is clear: the 5 & 1 Plan doesn’t just promote healthy, quality weight loss. It unlocks a body that works better over time and improves key drivers of metabolic health. 3

Looking Ahead

Jonnalagadda continued, “We’re committed to expanding our scientific and clinical contributions and making an impact on optimal metabolic health. Our approach to helping to reverse the effects of metabolic dysfunction is grounded in science and fueled by support from a coach and community — with the goal of impacting lives at scale.”

Later this month, Medifast will host its Scientific Advisory Board meeting, where a group of distinguished physicians, academic researchers, nutrition, exercise science, and bio-behavioral science experts will explore the latest research on metabolic dysfunction and discuss new opportunities for the company to continue supporting optimal metabolic health. Looking ahead, Medifast will unveil the next phase of its scientific discovery, underscoring its commitment to helping people achieve optimal metabolic health.

About Medifast: Medifast (NYSE: MED) is the health and wellness company offering a simple yet comprehensive approach to weight management and lifestyle change through its science-backed and coach-guided lifestyle system. Designed to address the challenges of metabolic dysfunction, the company’s lifestyle system integrates personalized plans, scientifically developed products and a framework for habit creation — all supported by a unique network of independent coaches. Science is core to the company, marked by an in-house Scientific & Clinical Affairs team and independent esteemed Scientific Advisory Board, 30+ research studies, 70+ scientific abstract presentations and publications, and 30+ publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals. With more than 40 years of clinical heritage, Medifast is addressing the metabolic health crisis through cutting-edge science and community-driven support and remains committed to its mission of offering Lifelong Transformation, Making a Healthy Lifestyle Second Nature®. For more information, visit MedifastInc.com , and follow Medifast on X and LinkedIn .

1 O'Hearn M, et al. Trends and Disparities in Cardiometabolic Health Among U.S. Adults, 1999-2018. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2022;80(2):138-151. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.04.046.

2 Arterburn LM, et al. Randomized controlled trial assessing two commercial weight loss programs in adults with overweight or obesity. Obes Sci Pract. 2018;5(1):3-14. doi: 10.1002/osp4.312. In a clinical study, individuals on the OPTAVIA 5&1 Plan retained 98% of lean mass at 16 weeks.

3 Cesaro A, et al. Visceral adipose tissue and residual cardiovascular risk: a pathological link and new therapeutic options. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023;10:1187735. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1187735

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250912366555/en/

Public Relations:
Jessica Oring, Jessica.Oring@medifastinc.com

FAQ**

How does MEDIFAST INC MED plan to leverage the findings of the 5 & 1 plan to address the growing epidemic of metabolic dysfunction among U.S. adults, given that 9 out of Americans are classified as metabolically unhealthy?

Medifast Inc plans to leverage the successful results of the 5 & 1 plan by promoting targeted nutrition and lifestyle interventions, aiming to provide effective weight management solutions that directly address the metabolic dysfunction affecting the majority of U.S. adults.

What specific evidence from MEDIFAST INC MED’s clinical trials supports the claim that the 5 & 1 plan not only promotes weight loss but also enhances metabolic health by preserving 98% of lean mass?

Clinical trials for Medifast Inc.'s 5 & 1 plan demonstrated that participants experienced significant weight loss while maintaining a high percentage of lean body mass, as evidenced by body composition assessments showing 98% preservation of lean mass.

Can MEDIFAST INC MED provide insights into the expected outcomes from the upcoming Scientific Advisory Board meeting regarding new strategies for tackling metabolic dysfunction and advancing metabolic health?

MEDIFAST INC MED's upcoming Scientific Advisory Board meeting may unveil innovative strategies aimed at addressing metabolic dysfunction and enhancing metabolic health, potentially influencing both product development and market positioning in the health and wellness sector.

How does MEDIFAST INC MED’s comprehensive approach to weight management differentiate itself from other programs, particularly in the context of maintaining lean mass and fostering long-term metabolic health?

Medifast Inc's comprehensive approach to weight management differentiates itself by emphasizing sustainable lifestyle changes, personalized support, and a scientifically-backed meal plan that prioritizes lean mass preservation and long-term metabolic health, unlike many standard programs.

**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about MEDIFAST INC (NYSE: MED).

MEDIFAST INC

NASDAQ: MED

MED Trading

-1.67% G/L:

$10.625 Last:

108,612 Volume:

$10.73 Open:

mwn-app Ad 300

MED Latest News

February 17, 2026 05:50:29 pm
Medifast (MED) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript

MED Stock Data

$125,190,599
10,672,526
2.58%
34
N/A
Personal Services
Consumer Discretionary
US
Baltimore

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Link Market Wire News to Your X Account

Download The Market Wire News App