A recent study by online prescription and consultation site MedExpress has found that 77% of Canadians feel their overall quality of life has improved since beginning weight-loss treatment. The survey, conducted last month, included 551 Canadians who were either using a weight-loss treatment or seriously considering one. Participants spanned generations, including Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, and baby boomers.
Positive Changes in Daily Routines and Eating Habits
The study revealed significant shifts in daily routines, particularly around eating habits. Of those surveyed, 94% reported a change in their eating habits, with 83% cutting back on takeout or restaurant meals. This reduction in eating out also had financial benefits, with typical users spending $50 less per week on food. Overall, 77% of participants reported feeling better after starting treatment.
Among those considering weight-loss treatment, many had already made lifestyle adjustments, including choosing healthier foods (55%), reducing snacking (46%), eating fewer meals per day (36%), and buying less food overall (32%). Additionally, 64% of Canadians said they were already cutting back on eating out, suggesting lifestyle shifts can begin before treatment starts.
Growing Confidence and Social Engagement
Weight loss was associated with increased confidence and a greater willingness to engage in physical and social activities. Of those surveyed, 72% reported feeling more confident after starting treatment, and 54% said they were more willing to participate in social activities—particularly among Gen Z, where 67% reported increased willingness.
With heightened confidence, many tried new forms of exercise, including walking (36%), working out (27%), running or jogging (19%), yoga or pilates (16%), swimming (15%), cycling (12%), and group fitness or team sports (9%). About 67% of respondents felt more motivated to develop and maintain a long-term wellness plan, while 65% reported increased willpower.
However, not everyone is open about their journey; more than half of those surveyed admitted to hiding their weight-loss treatment from someone in their life.
Unexpected Benefits: Reduced Food Cravings and Emotional Eating
Canadians are also rethinking what weight care means. One unexpected benefit was that 52% of participants experienced fewer food cravings or less “food noise” as a result of treatment, and 14% were surprised by a reduction in emotional eating.
Sixty-nine percent of Canadians felt that weight-loss treatments helped them return to a healthy body size. However, only 32% viewed treatment as a “natural” form of weight loss, indicating mixed opinions on the subject.
Support for Public Health Coverage
Support for broader access to weight-loss programs was strong, especially among women: 82% of women and 70% of men believed treatments should be covered by Canadian public health insurance. Generational differences emerged, with 82% of millennials and 81% of Gen X supporting coverage, while Gen Z showed lower support at 65%.
The study highlights a broader shift toward sustainable, lifestyle-focused wellness. For many Canadians, these changes represent a reset rather than a restriction—it is not just about losing weight, but about what people gain along the way.
This article provides information and should not replace medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
