Being overweight or obese isn’t just about how you look. Carrying around extra weight is also bad for your health. Diabetes, heart disease, cancer, joint injury and other health issues can come with being overweight.

Some 50% of Americans will be considered obese by 2030, studies predict. In fact, the CDC says 1 in 3 adults and 1 in 5 children in the US are there now.

What’s the good news? Today’s health system offers choices for people who need to lose weight and improve their health. These choices can set you up for success.

1. Weight management programs

Weight Watchers, Noom and the Mayo Clinic Diet are just a few popular weight management programs. They are shown to help you eat healthy, focus on things like exercise and sleep, and offer tailored plans. Some plans blend food planning and coaching with weight loss drugs.

2. Weight Loss Surgery

Over the past two decades, more and more people have turned to gastric bypass or lap band surgery for weight loss. Surgery is often used for patients with severe obesity and those with mobility or other health issues that make exercise difficult.

3. Weight loss drugs

Appetite suppressants and GLP-1 drugs have become more popular and often show quick results. It is vital that you talk with a doctor when using weight loss drugs. They can advise on which drug may work best for you and not interact with other meds you’re taking. They can also explain any side effects so you know what to watch for. While you’re using the weight loss drug, your doctor will likely recommend a healthy eating plan and workout habits for your long-term success. Having the right diet is important, says JAMA.

 The popularity of these GLP-1 drugs have led to companies creating unapproved versions that are sold online. Make sure what you take is approved by the FDA.

Learn more about GLP-1s for weight loss.

4. Fitness Programs

Having someone to work out with can jumpstart your activity if you are just starting out. Also, your BCBSIL health plan may include a discounted membership to fitness gyms. Get a personal trainer, join a class, or just get a friend or spouse to be your walking partner. They can help you stay on track so you don’t give up.

With more people using apps on their smart phones, a whole new online fitness industry has taken shape. Try some live stream classes like Caliber and Peloton. Or, try an on-your-own workout plan with apps like Centr and Fitbit. You have choices without starting a fitness program in a gym full of people. For people with mobility issues or older adults, chair yoga or Tai Chi apps can get you started. Some apps are free, while others may have a monthly fee.

Is Weight Loss Covered by Insurance?

Based on diagnosis and health plan, you may have coverage for weight loss surgery, medical weight loss programs or prescription drugs. These are drugs like appetite suppressants, GLP-1s approved for weight management, and lipase inhibitors. Although most plans don’t cover GLP-1s for weight loss, doctors can prescribe GLP-1s without it being a covered benefit. This means you will pay out-of-pocket for the prescription.

Check your plan benefits. If part of your benefits, you likely will need approval from your health plan before you start treatment. Be sure to talk to your doctor about your options. Work together to decide what is best for you.

Sources: The Nutrition Source,  Harvard School of Public Health, 2025; Overweight & Obesity,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; Choosing a Safe & Successful Weight-loss Program,  National Institutes of Health, 2024; Best Weight Loss Programs of 2025,  Forbes, 2025; Which Weight Loss Program is Best for You? Dietitians and Doctors Share Guidance,  Today, 2025; Top Weight Loss Medications,  Obesity Medicine Association, 2025; I Am Taking a GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medication—What Should I Know?,  Journal of the American Medical Association, 2025; FDA’s Concerns with Unapproved GLP-1 Drugs Used for Weight Loss,  U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2025