What Exactly is Reverse Health?
Reverse Health is an online weight loss program marketed specifically to women over 40. As we age, losing weight can become increasingly difficult due to changes in our metabolism, hormone levels, and lifestyle habits. Reverse Health aims to help women overcome these challenges through personalized meal plans, supplements, one-on-one health coaching, and progress tracking tools accessible through their smartphone app.
The Origin Story
According to the Reverse Health website, the program was co-founded by Amanda Hamilton, a registered dietitian, and Dr. Jeremy Dungen, an internal medicine physician. Together, they developed a customized weight loss solution catered to the unique needs of peri- and post-menopausal women who were struggling to lose weight through traditional dieting alone.
After researching the latest scientific literature on nutrition, metabolism, and behavior change, they put together an all-encompassing program addressing diet, exercise, stress management, sleep, gut health, hormone balance, and more. Their goal was to translate complex science into an easy-to-follow, holistic weight loss solution for busy women over 40.
What‘s Included
A Reverse Health subscription includes the following:
- Customized weekly meal plans and grocery lists
- Access to simple, healthy recipes
- Personalized workout routines and activity tracking
- Optional supplement regimens (available for an additional fee)
- Unlimited messaging withRegistered Dietitian nutrition coaches
- Stress management and sleep tips
- Progress trackingtools
The program is delivered through a user-friendly app compatible with iOS and Android devices. Users can access meal plans, workouts, coaching appointments, and resources all in one place.
Examining the Pros
Now that we know the basics, let‘s dive into the positives and negatives, starting with some of the advertised pros:
Specialized for Women Over 40
Unlike some generic diet plans, Reverse Health customizes its approach based on age, hormone levels, activity rate, food preferences and weight loss goals. As women over 40 tend to lose weight more slowly due to metabolic changes, this personalization is a major advantage.
According to customer Maureen L.:
“I like that the calorie target they gave me fits my age and activity level. Their formula has helped me lose over 20 pounds steadily in just 5 months!”
Holistic Approach
Rather than focusing on calorie restriction alone, Reverse Health uses a holistic approach addressing lifestyle factors like sleep, stress and gut health that impact weight. This aligns with research finding multi-faceted plans yield better long-term results.
Says regular user Denise C.:
“Reverse Health has taught me so much about how stress and poor sleep sabotage my weight loss. By improving those areas through their tips, I have so much more energy and less cravings throughout my day.”
Coaching and Accountability
Having registered dietitians monitor progress and offer nutrition advice can help clients stay the course when motivation lags. This accountability piece is crucial but often missing from self-guided weight loss attempts.
“My coach has kept me honest and on track with weekly check-ins,” explains user Terri S. “Her feedback and encouragement have been invaluable to my weight loss journey."
What About the Cons?
However, Reverse Health isn’t without its downsides. Some drawbacks logged by users include:
Hefty Monthly Price Tag
At $29.99/month minimum, Reverse Health sits on the pricier end of digital weight loss programs. Those on a tight budget may have difficulty justifying the recurring cost.
Long-time user Karen L. warns:
“Get ready to fork out some cash every month. It would be nice if they offered more flexibility like quarterly billing cycles or seasonal discounts.”
No In-Person Support
Since Reverse Health operates remotely through their app, some women miss having face-to-face coaching and community that traditional diet workshops can provide.
Says Andrea R.:
“I got reverse health because of my hectic schedule as a working mom. But sometimes I still wish I could talk to someone in person rather than messaging through an app.”
Spotty Customer Service
While experiences vary, some customers have reported long delays hearing back from Reverse Health’s customer support regarding technical issues, billing questions or coaching availability.
As Tracy C. vents:
“I had to send three emails just to get help canceling my account after they double charged me one month.”
The Science Behind Reverse Health: Does It Hold Up?
Any weight loss program worth its salt should base its approach on solid scientific evidence. So how does Reverse Health’s methodology stack up against current research on safe, sustainable weight loss?
According to obesity expert Dr. Jessica Morris, author of ‘The Menopause Diet Plan,’ Reverse Health aligns with proven strategies in several key ways:
“Reverse Health’s method of gradual calorie reduction rather than drastic restriction helps prevent metabolic slowdown over time. Their emphasis on protein, fiber and nutrient-dense carbohydrates echoes what the data shows regarding optimal macronutrient balance for midlife women. Additionally, they wisely focus on behavior change like stress relief and adequate sleep, not just food, to impact weight indirectly. Overall their core principles reflect the latest science on healthy, maintainable weight loss for menopausal women.”
However, Dr. Morris cautions against overreliance on supplements whose benefits may be overhyped. She advises women speak to their doctor before taking any pills or powders for weight regulation.
The Verdict: Should You Give Reverse Health a Try?
At the end of the day, the effectiveness of any diet depends so much on the individual. Reverse Health offers a customized solution to a common weight loss struggle for women over 40. For some, the convenience, privacy and specialization may be worth the recurring fees.
However, it certainly isn’t the only option, nor necessarily the best fit for every woman. Traditional programs like Weight Watchers or consulting a personal nutritionist also have merit. As with most lifestyle changes, commitment to the process—not just the product—is crucial for success.
As you consider next steps for your own weight loss, reflect on what has and hasn’t worked in the past. See what current users—good and bad—have experienced. Chat with your doctor to contextualize reviews within your medical history and goals.
While hype helps sell a snazzy concept like Reverse Health, sustainable progress comes down to finding the right fit for your needs, budget and personality. Let your long-term health—not short-term marketing—guide your decision.
