The hidden side of slimming down – why your weight-loss journey matters for Insurance

Over the past year, more people worldwide and here in Aotearoa, are taking control of their weight with surgery, GLP-1 medications, and lifestyle changes. And it’s not just celebrities on Instagram – everyday Kiwis are making life-changing choices for their health.

Yes, a healthy BMI matters for insurance, but it’s not the only thing. Every weight-loss journey has pros and cons. Surgery and medications can improve health, but they can also bring complications, nutrient deficiencies, digestive issues, and the chance of weight regain. With GLP-1 medications especially, because they’re relatively new and there isn’t yet long-term data on their effectiveness or future health impacts, some things remain a little unknown. Insurers look at the full picture- your past, your present, and potential future risks – because they need to understand the likelihood of future claims. This can affect your cover, sometimes leading to loadings or exclusions, but it doesn’t mean you can’t get insured.

Weight regain is common and normal, and ongoing care – follow-ups, nutrition, and supplements – shows insurers you’re managing your health responsibly. GLP-1 medications and surgery may also cause digestive or other side effects that insurers consider in their assessment.

Being honest and up-to-date with your health history is key. Insurers aren’t judging-they’re in the business of paying claims. To do that, they need to accurately assess the potential risk of future health events. Be aware that complications or ongoing symptoms may lead to exclusions on any new cover.

There’s a positive side too: if you’ve achieved sustained weight loss (congratulations), this is a great time for an insurance review. Maintaining your weight loss can bring so many positives, including the possibility of improved terms.

The takeaway for clients: getting insurance sooner rather than later is often better. Before any complications or ongoing symptoms arise, you’re more likely to get comprehensive cover with fewer exclusions. Waiting can limit options or increase costs down the track.

Looking after your body and wellbeing is Plan A. Your insurance is Plan B. Thinking about cover? Reach out today. We’ll make sure both Plan A and Plan B are working for you.