Paper Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1548609/full
Help us promote this research by sharing the paper link above in social media posts, especially on X. This study demonstrates that a 15.5% weight loss is possible and sustainable at 1 year, without drugs & injections.
Toward Health is proud to announce the publication of a groundbreaking research paper in Frontiers in Nutrition, demonstrating the long-term effectiveness and cost savings of the TOWARD approach to metabolic health. The study, which tracked patients over 12 months, highlights the financial and health benefits of evidence-based metabolic interventions, demonstrating that improving metabolic health in the workplace is not only effective but also scalable, durable and cost-efficient.
STUDY LINK: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1548609/
BLOG ARTICLE: https://toward.health/new-study-making-america-healthy-one-company-at-a-time/
Key findings from the study include:
–Sustained Weight Loss: Patients lost an average of 15.5% of their body weight—an average of 43 pounds—by the 12-month mark, with 76% of participants still losing weight at that point.
–Reduced Medication Use: Participants required an average of two fewer prescriptions per person.
–Significant Cost Savings: Companies saved an estimated $2,000 per employee.
–Scalable Virtual Care: The combination of telemedicine, the interactive Toward Health app, real-time smart monitoring, and health coaching eliminated the need for frequent in-office visits while improving patient outcomes.
A previous study from Toward Health demonstrated that for individuals with severe metabolic disease, companies could save up to $4,000 per person. However, this new research is even more powerful—showing that even in a broader population of less critically ill individuals, companies can still achieve nearly $2,000 in savings per employee. This confirms that metabolic interventions are not only beneficial for those with severe conditions but also a scalable and cost-effective solution for improving overall workforce health.
“We are thrilled to see our approach validated through rigorous research. These findings confirm that metabolic health interventions are not just beneficial for individuals but also a game-changer for employers looking to reduce healthcare costs and improve workplace health & productivity,” said Dr. Tro Kalayjian, Founder and Chief Medical Officer at Toward Health.
Study co-author, Dr. Adrian Soto-Mota goes on to emphasize “This study highlights the power of lifestyle changes. A well-designed program supports lasting weight loss and reduces the need for medication, leading to cost savings.”
The TOWARD Approach: A Proven Model for Metabolic Health
The TOWARD approach prioritizes personalized, real-time metabolic care that empowers patients to take control of their health. This model is built on six core principles:
–T = Text-Based Communications – Regular touchpoints and support via messaging keep patients engaged and accountable.
–O = Online Interactions – Virtual visits provide accessible, convenient care without the need for in-person appointments.
–W = Wellness Coaching – Expert health coaches guide patients through sustainable lifestyle changes.
–A = Asynchronous Education & Community Support – Self-paced learning and peer support foster long-term success.
–R = Real-Time Biofeedback & Remote Monitoring – Continuous tracking of metabolic health metrics enables timely adjustments.
–D = Dietary Modifications Emphasizing TCR & IF – A focus on Therapeutic Carbohydrate Reduction (TCR) and Intermittent Fasting (IF) supports metabolic flexibility and sustainable weight loss.
“Employers, insurers, and healthcare systems have a tremendous opportunity to reduce costs while improving patient health. This study provides the evidence they need to take action,” said Dr. Laura Buchanan, MD, Metabolic Care Lead at Toward Health
Beyond the numbers, these results reinforce Toward Health’s mission to reverse metabolic disease and improve lives. As more organizations recognize the financial and human impact of addressing metabolic health, scalable solutions like the TOWARD approach will be key to reshaping the future of healthcare.
“Patients deserve more than a quick injection drug and a seven-minute visit. We've set the new standard for what every metabolic health clinic in the country should be doing to truly reverse metabolic disease,” said Dr. Kalayjian.
About Toward Health
Toward Health (formerly Doctor Tro) is a nationwide telemedicine company. Our focus is helping patients and employers make drastic changes through lifestyle interventions. We provide real-time vitals, glucose and body composition tracking, as well as tele-medicine visits and coaching, along with concierge medical care. Our greatest efforts are placed on preventing and reversing disease.