In a headline that’s rocking the health and wellness world, Weight Watchers—once the go-to solution for millions hoping to lose weight—has filed for bankruptcy. While the full story is complex, one major factor stands out: the rise of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.
These weight-loss injections have been hailed as “miracle” drugs. But as a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach who supports women over 45, I believe this moment reveals something deeper: we’re finally waking up to the fact that weight loss isn’t just about the scale—it’s about hormones, gut health, mindset, and lifelong habits.
And that’s where health coaching shines.
Why GLP-1 Drugs Are Disrupting the Industry
GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic work by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Originally developed for diabetes, they’ve become wildly popular for weight loss. As demand for these medications skyrocketed, programs like Weight Watchers struggled to compete.
In fact, Weight Watchers pivoted to include these medications in their offerings in 2023—but it was too little, too late. The brand that once dominated the weight-loss space lost its footing in a world where people are seeking quicker fixes.
But here’s the real story: GLP-1 drugs may help temporarily as a tool for you to reduce weight in the short term, but they don’t address the why behind weight gain—especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. I’m not against them, but you need something additionally for long-term wellness.
The Hidden Root Causes: Hormones, Gut Health, and the Mind-Body Connection
Women over 45 face a unique set of challenges that a shot can’t solve:
- Estrogen and progesterone shifts can cause increased belly fat, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
- Thyroid dysfunction slows metabolism, making weight loss feel impossible.
- Gut imbalances trigger bloating, food sensitivities, and inflammation.
- Stress and cortisol overload lead to cravings, fatigue, and emotional eating.
GLP-1 medications may suppress appetite, but they don’t repair your gut, regulate your hormones, restore your energy, or help you feel at peace in your own body. And once people stop taking them, many regain the weight—because the underlying issues remain unresolved. Plus, there are reported problems with digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation), losing too much weight, “Ozempic face” – loss of muscle, sagging skin, wrinkles, and a gaunt appearance. And more serious reportedly rare effects have included pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues.
Why Health Coaches Are More Valuable Than Ever
As a health and wellness coach, I don’t promise quick fixes. I offer sustainable solutions rooted in science, behavior change, and a faith-based, compassionate approach.
Here’s what I help my clients do that no shot or app can:
- Balance blood sugar naturally with hormone-supportive, gut-friendly meals
- Identify and reduce inflammatory triggers that make symptoms worse
- Build resilience through stress reduction, better sleep, and nervous system support
- Create realistic habits that work with your busy life—not against it
- Rediscover purpose and confidence, especially during midlife transitions
- Work through mindset blocks like shame, guilt, and perfectionism
- Make faith part of the journey, reconnecting with purpose and self-worth
You Are Not Broken—You’re in Transition
The bankruptcy of Weight Watchers isn’t just about business or money. It’s symbolic. Diet culture as we knew it is failing, and we’re entering a new era—one that prioritizes whole-person health.
Women over 45 are done with the one-size-fits-all approach. You want to understand your body. You want to feel well, not just thinner. You want to feel energized, not dependent on a weekly injection.
And that’s where coaching comes in.
The Bottom Line: Real Change Takes Root, Not Rush
GLP-1 drugs may have their place, especially for those with medical conditions, but they are not a substitute for healing and lifelong habits. You deserve support that sees you—not just your BMI. You deserve a guide who listens, encourages, and walks with you step-by-step. And calculating points as WW taught may be helpful initially, but most people don’t want to have to count points the rest of their life.
If you’re a woman over 45 navigating hormonal changes, digestive issues, or thyroid concerns, know this:
✨ You don’t need another diet. You need a strategy.
✨ You don’t need shame. You need support.
✨ You don’t need injections for weight loss the rest of your life. You need insight.
Let’s build your health from the inside out.
Ready to reclaim your health—naturally?
Book a free 20-minute consultation today and learn how coaching can help you balance your hormones, restore your gut, and feel amazing in your skin—without depending on prescriptions. Click here to schedule that consult.
👉 Get more free resources by visiting NurturingYourLife.com or follow me on Instagram @leah_cheshire
Leah Cheshire, NBC-HWC, is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She helps women over 45 naturally support hormonal balance, gut health, and thyroid function through personalized wellness coaching rooted in science and faith.
