Early signals from real-world metabolic health tracking

Why proactive health matters

Preventive health begins before diagnosis — when change is still small, often reversible, and shaped primarily by daily behavior.

Two realities make early action difficult:

1. Risk accumulates quietly. Many meaningful shifts happen before symptoms, clinical thresholds, and often before a person feels “unwell.”
2. Weight alone can be misleading. A single scale number compresses multiple biological processes into one line, masking underlying shifts in fat, muscle, and metabolic markers.

In 2025, Platos saw a meaningful shift: more people moved from one-off measurements to repeated tracking across time. That transition — from isolated readings to visible trends — is where early signals begin to emerge.

Expanding the Measurement Infrastructure

In 2025, Platos significantly expanded access to preventive metabolic measurement across Nigeria.

• 30+ new pharmacy partners were onboarded
• Distribution extended to 300+ pharmacy locations
• More than 10,000 individuals were screened through in-store and community health activations

This expansion increased access to structured body composition and metabolic measurement in everyday settings — not only clinics.

Greater access alone does not create longitudinal insight. But it creates the conditions for it.

As distribution expanded, more individuals moved from one-off screening to repeat measurement, enabling the early formation of longitudinal metabolic visibility described in this report.

Who this data represents

In 2025, the majority of measurement activity occurred in Nigeria, concentrated in major urban centres including Lagos, Abuja, and Ibadan. A smaller share came from international users across multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, Israel, and Ghana.

Most users measured using the Platos Body Monitor. A small minority imported data through Apple Health or Health Connect, primarily heart rate, blood pressure, and weight.

Users often selected multiple goals. While weight management remained the dominant entry point, a substantial minority engaged for broader metabolic visibility — including prevention, disease management, and muscle health.

This reflects a platform anchored in weight-related goals, but increasingly expanding toward broader metabolic visibility.

What We Observed in 2025

1. Measurement momentum accelerated

Biomarker tracking volume grew significantly year over year, increasing by more than 200%.

Per-user measurement depth also increased meaningfully. On average, users logged approximately 190 measurements per year, up from roughly 108 the year before — indicating materially deeper repeat engagement over time.

Measurement activity accelerated throughout the year, with the final quarter contributing the highest share of total logging.

This indicates not only user acquisition, but also deepening behavioral activation.

2. Repeat measurement began quickly — Sustained tracking emerged selectively

While all measurers recorded at least one biomarker, a meaningful subset returned to measure again:

• Nearly 40% measured on two or more separate days
• One quarter reached four or more measurement days
• Roughly one in seven users measured on ten or more separate days, indicating early habit formation.

Among those who returned:

• The median time to a second measurement day was just a few days
• The median time to a fourth measurement day was under two weeks

This suggests initial re-engagement happens quickly, but sustained tracking develops more gradually.

3. Early longitudinal tracking cohort formed

A distinct cohort emerged: users who tracked across multiple weeks, enabling visible trend formation rather than isolated readings.

Roughly one in six measurers recorded measurements on at least four separate days spanning eight weeks or more. This cohort represents the early formation of structured metabolic time-series data.

Within this group:

• Typical tracking lasted around six months
• Users measured on approximately fifteen separate days
• The typical gap between measurements was only a few days

This cadence allowed short-term fluctuations to settle into a visible direction — the foundation of meaningful trend visibility.

4 . Weight and body composition do not always move together

Among users who consistently tracked both weight and fat mass over time, several patterns emerged.

The most common pattern was weight and fat mass moving downward together. However, the data also revealed an important divergence:

Approximately one in ten users showed stable weight, while fat mass changed meaningfully.

In these cases, body composition shifted even though the scale remained largely unchanged.

This reinforces a key insight: Weight alone can mask underlying metabolic changes — both positive and negative.

5. Fat and lean mass follow diverse paths

When fat mass was examined alongside fat-free mass:

• Some users reduced fat while maintaining or increasing lean mass
• Others gained or lost both simultaneously
• Some showed opposing movements between fat and lean tissue

These trajectories highlight that metabolic change is not uniform. Similar scale outcomes can reflect very different underlying biological shifts.

6. Clinical marker tracking remains early — but shows stickiness

A smaller subset of users tracked blood pressure and fasting blood glucose.

While adoption of these markers remains limited relative to body composition tracking, a meaningful share of those who adopted them tracked consistently enough to observe directional trends.

Among users with sufficient longitudinal data:

• Many blood pressure trackers showed downward or stable trends
• Most fasting glucose trackers showed stable or decreasing patterns

These findings are observational and do not imply causation. However, they demonstrate that once users begin tracking clinical markers consistently, directional visibility becomes possible.

What this means for proactive health

Visibility precedes prevention

The most important shift in 2025 was not a single metric. It was the transition from a one-off measurement to repeat measurements.

When users track across weeks and months:

• Variation becomes direction
• Fluctuation becomes a pattern
• Data points become signals

This shift is foundational for proactive health.

Weight is an entry point — not the full story

The data reinforces that:

• Weight loss is not always equivalent to fat loss
• Weight stability does not guarantee metabolic stability
• Identical weight outcomes can reflect very different composition paths

Body composition adds context that scale weight alone cannot provide.

Consistency matters more than intensity

The clearest trends did not emerge from short bursts of frequent measurement. They emerged when users measured consistently across time.

Longitudinal cadence — even at moderate frequency — proved more meaningful than short-term intensity.

What’s next

The next phase is not about collecting more measurements.
It is about turning visibility into clarity.

In 2026, Platos will focus on strengthening the signal layer — helping users:

• Recognize meaningful change earlier
• Understand what is driving that change
• Move from raw metrics to a clearer direction

As longitudinal data deepens, the emphasis will shift from “What changed?” to “What does this mean?”

The ambition is simple:
to make early metabolic change easier to see, easier to interpret, and easier to act on.

Closing perspective

2025 marked a transition:

From isolated measurements to emerging longitudinal visibility.
From raw numbers to observable direction.

These early signals are not clinical outcomes or predictive models.
They represent something more foundational: structured visibility across time.

That foundation — repeated measurement forming visible trends — is the prerequisite for proactive health intelligence.

And it is now beginning to take shape.

Best,
Oladimeji Joseph Fakayode
Founder & CEO, Platos Health

– With contributions from the Platos Data & Outcomes Team

Principal Investigator: Dr Itopa Jimoh, MBBS, MPH, DrPH
Co-Researcher: Rodhiyat Raheem, B.Pharm

Background: Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) has the potential to improve glycemic control by facilitating continuous tracking and timely provider feedback, yet evidence from low- and middle-income countries is limited.

Objective: To evaluate changes in HbA1c among patients enrolled in Platos RPM for at least six months and explore user experiences with the platform.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted using de-identified medical records of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) enrolled in Platos RPM between January 2024 and September 2025. HbA1c was collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. An exploratory survey was administered to two users to capture perceptions, perceived benefits, and challenges. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative responses were summarized thematically.

Results: Of 22 enrolled patients, six remained active for at least six months with available HbA1c data. The proportion achieving HbA1c <7% increased from 33.3% at baseline to 66.7% at six months, while poorly controlled patients (HbA1c >8%) decreased from 50% to 16.7%. Both survey respondents reported high satisfaction with Platos RPM, increased confidence in self-management, and improved monitoring habits. Challenges were minimal, primarily occasional connectivity issues. Notably, one patient with multiple comorbidities and possible renal impairment did not improve, highlighting the need for tailored support in complex cases.

Conclusions: Platos RPM may improve glycemic control and patient self-efficacy in resource-constrained settings. Preliminary findings suggest that promoting consistent recording of multiple glucose parameters, encouraging patient logging, and proactive follow-up for high-risk patients could enhance RPM effectiveness. Larger, prospective studies are warranted to confirm clinical benefits and optimize implementation.

Introduction

Diabetes is a major global health challenge, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. In 2021, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimated that 537 million adults worldwide had diabetes, a number projected to reach 783 million by 2045 (1). The burden is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries, where healthcare resources are often limited. Africa has seen a sharp rise in diabetes cases, with 24 million people affected in 2021 and projections reaching 55 million by 2045. As Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria carries a significant share of this burden, with 3.6 million adults living with diabetes, a number expected to rise to 4.9 million by 2030 (2).

Poor glycemic control is widespread among Nigerians with diabetes, increasing the risk of severe complications that reduce the quality of life, increase healthcare costs, reduce productivity, and negatively impact economic outcomes for both individuals and the nation. A study conducted between 2003 and 2012 found that mean HbA1c levels among Nigerian diabetes patients ranged from 8.1% to 8.3%, highlighting persistent challenges in maintaining good glycemic control (3). Limited access to diabetes care providers is a key contributor to poor glycemic control, a problem further worsened by the ongoing brain drain, which has significantly strained the healthcare sector.

Given these challenges, innovative approaches are needed to bridge gaps in diabetes care and improve disease management. One promising solution is Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), which enables real-time tracking of health metrics, facilitates early intervention and enhances patient engagement. Despite its potential, RPM remains underutilized in Nigeria, and its impact on diabetes management within the local healthcare system remains largely unexplored.

Platos enables remote patient monitoring by allowing patients to securely share health data with their providers for timely treatment adjustments. The app integrates with smart devices, such as glucometers and body composition monitors, to track biomarkers including blood glucose, body fat, and weight. Abnormal readings trigger alerts to both patients and providers.

For diabetes management, Platos provides personalized insights by generating trends, charts, and summaries of each patient’s data, helping both patients and providers identify patterns and understand their health status over time. Real-time assistance includes in-app messaging for patient concerns, symptom assessments, and guidance during hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia events, such as advising hospital visits. These features enable continuous monitoring, timely provider response, and enhanced patient engagement.

Objective:

This study aimed to characterize patients enrolled in the Platos Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) program for type 2 diabetes, to evaluate changes in HbA1c among those who maintained participation for at least six months, and to explore patient experiences with the program. Specifically, the study sought to understand patients’ perceptions of the benefits and challenges of using Platos RPM, their expectations for remote monitoring, and how these qualitative insights contextualize observed quantitative trends.

Methods

Study Design and Setting

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using de-identified electronic medical records from adults with T2DM enrolled in Platos RPM between January 2024 and October 2025. RPM enabled continuous glucose tracking, alerts for abnormal readings, symptom assessment, and provider feedback.

Participants

A total of 22 adults with type 2 diabetes receiving care at Chronicare Hospital were enrolled in the Platos RPM program between January 2024 and October 2025. Enrollment was voluntary, and only patients who expressed interest were invited to participate. Of these, 19 patients maintained a subscription for at least six months. However, only six patients consistently used the RPM during this period and were included in the study cohort for quantitative analyses.

Eligibility criteria for inclusion in the study cohort were: age ≥18 years, diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, consistent use of Platos RPM for at least six months, and availability of baseline HbA1c data. Demographic and clinical characteristics collected included age, sex, duration of diabetes, and comorbidities.

Qualitative Component

An exploratory qualitative survey was conducted to capture patient experiences with Platos RPM. The original plan was to include at least 10 participants; however, only two patients responded, both of whom had used the RPM consistently for at least six months. The participants opted for a semi-structured survey format instead of key informant interviews. Open-ended questions explored perceived benefits, challenges, and satisfaction with the RPM program. Responses were summarized descriptively and analyzed thematically to identify common themes, providing contextual insights to complement the quantitative findings.

Data Analysis

Quantitative analyses were descriptive due to the small sample. HbA1c values were summarized by baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Proportions of patients achieving glycemic targets (<7%, 7–8%, >8%) were calculated. Qualitative responses were summarized thematically to highlight perceived value, barriers, and areas for improvement.

Results

Table 1 below shows the characteristics of the patients who were subscribed to Platos RPM for at least 6 months. Most patients were aged 45–64 years, and males constituted the majority (63.2%) of users. The largest fraction of patients had a disease duration of less than 10 years (21.1%) or 10–15 years (21.1%), with over half of the cohort missing duration data. Hypertension was the most commonly reported comorbidity (42.1%), followed by hyperlipidemia and glaucoma (5.3% each). Retention trends were similar across age and sex, with males representing 83.3% of patients active at 6 months.

HbA1c Outcomes

Table 2 shows the distribution of patients across HbA1c categories over six months.

At baseline, 2 patients (33.3%) had good glycemic control (HbA1c <7%), 1 patient (16.7%) had fair control (7–8%), and 3 patients (50%) had poor control (>8%). By three months, 3 patients (50%) had achieved HbA1c <7%, 1 patient (16.7%) remained poorly controlled, and 2 patients (33.3%) had missing data. At six months, 4 patients (66.7%) achieved HbA1c <7%, 1 patient (16.7%) remained in the poor control range, and 1 patient (16.7%) had missing data.

The patient who did not achieve good glycemic control was a 60-year-old male with multiple comorbidities, including hypertension and a prior stroke. Recent kidney function tests suggested possible renal impairment, and his BMI was 16 kg/m². His HbA1c remained unchanged at month three and worsened by six months. Review of his glucose logs on the Platos app showed persistently high random blood sugar (RBS) readings until month four, when he stopped recording them, whereas fasting blood glucose (FBG) measurements from month five were inconsistently recorded and did not reflect the same degree of hyperglycemia as the RBS readings.

Overall, these results indicate a progressive improvement in glycemic control among consistent RPM users, with the proportion achieving HbA1c <7% increasing from 33.3% at baseline to 66.7% at six months.

Qualitative Findings

Two participants who had used Platos RPM for at least six months completed the survey. While the small number of responses limits generalizability, their feedback provides contextual insights into user experience and perceived benefits of the platform.

Perceived Benefits and Satisfaction:
Both participants reported the highest level of satisfaction on the 5-point scale (“very satisfied”), indicating a positive perception of the app. Both respondents also indicated that the app was easy to use and convenient for accessing and tracking their readings.

Impact on Self-Management and Confidence:
Participants reported increased confidence in managing their blood sugar compared to before using the app. The responses suggested that RPM facilitated better self-monitoring habits and greater awareness of glycemic trends.

Challenges and Technical Issues:
One participant reported occasional connectivity issues. No other significant challenges or confusing features were noted.

Suggestions for Improvement:
Participants did not indicate major changes, though one suggested improving connectivity reliability to enhance the experience.

Strengths and Limitations of Data Collection:

While the survey provided useful descriptive insights into user experience, the information was limited in depth because probing questions could not be asked. Despite this limitation, the responses captured key aspects of usability, engagement, and perceived impact, which provide contextual support for the quantitative findings.

Discussion

This retrospective cohort study evaluated changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) enrolled in Platos’ Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) program over six months. The results demonstrate a progressive improvement in glycemic control, suggesting that the use of RPM may enhance diabetes management outcomes in routine care.

At baseline, 2 out of 6 patients had achieved the recommended HbA1c target of <7%, while 3 patients had HbA1c levels >8%, indicating poor glycemic control. By the third month, 3 patients had achieved HbA1c <7%, and this increased to 4 patients by the sixth month. The number of patients with poorly controlled HbA1c (>8%) decreased from 3 at baseline to 1 at both follow-up points. Although HbA1c data were missing for 2 patients at month 3 and 1 patient at month 6, the overall trend demonstrates a clinically meaningful improvement in glycemic outcomes.

Improvement in HbA1c levels, even by a small margin, is clinically significant and is linked to reduced microvascular and macrovascular risks. For instance, a recent large study demonstrated that intensive glucose lowering was significantly associated with reduced microvascular events and nonfatal myocardial infarctions (5). Moreover, a meta-analysis has shown that targeting HbA1c levels in the range of 7.1–7.7% leads to substantial reductions in outcomes such as retinopathy and macroalbuminuria (6). The 2022 ADA Standards further affirm that achieving HbA1c levels around <7% is beneficial in reducing microvascular complications when it can be done safely (7).

The findings align with existing literature on the effectiveness of remote and digital health interventions for diabetes management. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have demonstrated that remote patient monitoring can significantly improve HbA1c outcomes compared with usual care (8–10). RPM facilitates continuous glucose tracking, timely provider feedback, and improved adherence to treatment recommendations, mechanisms that may explain the positive outcomes observed in this study.

The experience of one patient who did not achieve improvement highlights that RPM effectiveness may vary in individuals with complex clinical profiles. This 60-year-old male had multiple comorbidities, including hypertension, prior stroke, impaired renal function, and low BMI. Despite engagement with Platos RPM, his HbA1c remained high at three months and worsened by six months. Glucose log review indicated that random blood sugar (RBS) readings, which had been persistently elevated, were consistently recorded only until month four, whereas fasting blood glucose (FBG) entries from month five onward were infrequent and did not reflect hyperglycemic spikes. The discontinuation of regular RBS monitoring, combined with limited FBG entries, likely contributed to the underestimation of his worsening glycemic status and delayed timely intervention. These observations suggest that, for high-risk patients, monitoring both RBS and FBG consistently with proactive clinical follow-up may be necessary to optimize RPM effectiveness.

The exploratory qualitative survey, although limited to 2 respondents and collected via self-administered questions, provided contextual insights into patient experience. Both participants reported very high satisfaction on the 5-point scale, convenience, and increased confidence in self-management, aligning with evidence from other studies showing that digital self-monitoring tools can improve self-efficacy and treatment adherence in diabetes management (10). The self-administered format limited depth, as probing follow-up questions were not possible, but the responses nonetheless support the acceptability and perceived value of RPM in resource-limited settings.

Other limitations include the small sample size, the missing data at follow-up which limits the statistical power and generalizability of the results. Additionally, potential confounders, such as changes in medication, diet, or physical activity, were not controlled for. Therefore, the findings should be interpreted as indicative rather than conclusive. Nevertheless, the direction and consistency of HbA1c improvement across follow-up periods support the potential value of remote diabetes monitoring programs like Platos RPM, particularly in contexts where access to specialist diabetes care is limited.

In conclusion, this study provides preliminary evidence that Platos’ Remote Patient Monitoring system may contribute to improved glycemic control among adults with T2DM. Future studies with larger sample sizes, longer follow-up, and adjustment for potential confounders are warranted to confirm these findings and better understand the pathways through which digital interventions can improve diabetes outcomes in real-world settings.

Strengths and Weaknesses:

Strengths:

1. Mixed-methods design: Combining quantitative HbA1c analysis with qualitative patient feedback provides a more comprehensive understanding of Platos RPM’s impact.
2. Patient-centered insights: Survey responses, though limited, capture user experiences, perceived benefits, and challenges, offering valuable context for quantitative trends.
3. Real-world evidence: Data are drawn from routine clinical use of Platos RPM, reflecting actual patient engagement and outcomes in a Nigerian setting.
4. Preliminary evidence for feasibility: The study demonstrates the potential for RPM to improve glycemic control and patient self-efficacy in a resource-limited context.

Weaknesses:

1. Small sample size: Only six patients had complete HbA1c data, and two completed the qualitative survey, limiting statistical power and generalizability.
2. Incomplete data: Missing measurements at 3 and 6 months reduce the robustness of trend analysis and prevent formal statistical inference.
3. Limited qualitative depth: Only two patient responses were collected, and it relied on self-administered surveys, and planned Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) could not be conducted. This limited the ability to probe responses and fully understand broader user experiences, barriers, and contextual factors.
4. Descriptive analysis only: The study was exploratory and hypothesis-generating, precluding causal conclusions.

Conclusion and Recommendations:

The use of Platos Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) in this small cohort of adults with type 2 diabetes in Nigeria appeared to support the management of glycemic control, as indicated by improvements in HbA1c over six months among consistent users. Integration of RPM into routine diabetes care may help patients monitor their health data more effectively and increase confidence and engagement in self-management, as suggested by the exploratory qualitative feedback.

While RPM was effective for most participants, the experience of one patient who did not achieve improvement highlights that additional tailored support may be beneficial for individuals with complex clinical profiles. Such enhancements could include consistent logging of both fasting and random blood glucose, and proactive clinical follow-up for high-risk patients, to further enhance the effectiveness of RPM in these cases.

While limited by sample size, missing data, and the descriptive nature of the study, these findings provide preliminary evidence that RPM can be a feasible tool to complement standard diabetes care in resource-constrained settings. Future studies with larger cohorts, longer follow-up, and consideration of patient complexity and monitoring adherence are warranted to evaluate the broader applicability and potential impact of RPM on clinical outcomes.

References:

1. World Health Organization (WHO). Diabetes, key facts. September 2022. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes
2. International Diabetes Federation. Diabetes in Africa. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th edition; 2021. Available from: https://www.diabetesatlas.org
3. Sobngwi E, Ndour-Mbaye M, Boateng KA, et al. Type 2 diabetes control and complications in specialized diabetes care centers of sub-Saharan Africa: The DiabCare Africa study. Ethn Dis. 2014;24(4):502–509. Available from: https://ethndis.org/archive/files/ethndis-24-502.pdf
4. Løvaas KF, Cooper JG, Sandberg S, Røraas T, Thue G. Feasibility of using self-reported patient data in a national diabetes register. BMC Health Serv Res. 2015;15:1–7.
5. Kunutsor SK, et al. Glycaemic control and macrovascular and microvascular outcomes in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of trials investigating intensive glucose-lowering strategies. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2024;26(3):530–542. doi:10.1111/dom.15511
6. Sinha B, et al. A target HbA1c between 7 and 7.7% reduces macrovascular and microvascular events in type 2 diabetes regardless of duration: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2021;23(4):1012–1021. doi:10.1111/dom.14262
7. ElSayed NA, et al. Glycemic Targets: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2023. Diabetes Care. 2023;46(Suppl 1):S97–S112. doi:10.2337/dc23-S006
8. Lee PA, Greenfield G, Pappas Y. The impact of telehealth remote patient monitoring on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials. BMC Health Serv Res. 2018;18:495
9. Kebede MM, Zeeb H, Peters M, Heise TL, Pischke CR. Effectiveness of digital interventions for improving glycemic control in persons with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression analysis. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2018;20(11):767–782. doi:10.1089/dia.2018.0216
10. Greenwood DA, Gee PM, Fatkin KJ, Peeples M. A systematic review of reviews evaluating technology-enabled diabetes self-management education and support. J Diabetes Sci Technol. 2017;11(5):1015–1027.
    
    

Your body is always changing. Now, you can see how.

Starting today, Platos Monitor makes it easier than ever to understand your health progress — with visual trends, easy-to-read charts, and a redesigned “Today” dashboard that helps you focus on what matters most.

What’s New?

1. Trends & Charts Across All Your Biomarkers

You can now track your body composition and metabolic health markers over time — including: Body fat %, Weight, BMI, Visceral fat, Blood pressure, Blood sugar, Cholesterol …and more.

Charts are simple, scrollable, and filterable by week or month — so you can easily follow your progress and spot shifts early.

Progress is easier to see when your data comes to life.

2. “Today” Tab: A Smarter Daily Dashboard

We’ve redesigned the old “Diary” tab into a cleaner Today view that puts your most relevant biomarkers front and center. Each card now includes:

• Sparklines showing short-term progress
• Emojis to show direction (up, down, stable)
• Sparklines that show short-term changes

No digging. Just the numbers that matter to you, where you need them most.

3. Related Biomarkers — See the Whole Picture

Each biomarker page now includes “related” metrics at the bottom — making it easier to:

• Navigate from fat % to skeletal muscle
• Understand how multiple markers change together
• Explore your body’s data more holistically

4. Updated Goals: More Specific, More Personal

We’ve refined the goal options to make them more specific and actionable.
You can now choose clearer goals like lose weight or body fat, maintain weight, or gain healthy weight, ensuring your goals align with your current priorities.

This improvement makes goal-setting more relevant, so you can track progress with purpose.

Why It Matters

Health doesn’t change in a day. But over weeks, patterns emerge — and small changes add up.

By helping you visualize those patterns:

• You stay consistent, because progress becomes visible
• You focus on what’s improving, instead of getting overwhelmed
• You build healthier habits, one trend at a time

Start Tracking Your Trends Today

Update or download the latest version of the Platos app and explore your trends, discover what’s changing, and take control of your health journey — one visual at a time.

Because when it comes to your health, seeing is motivating.

👉 Update or download the Platos app to get started.
💬 Have questions or feedback? Chat with us on WhatsApp.

Warm regards,
The Platos Product Squad.

Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat — the fat stored deep in the belly around the organs — is closely associated with an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. At Platos, we help users make this hidden risk visible, measurable, and trackable, giving them the insights they need to take control of their metabolic health.

In just six months, Platos users who consistently tracked their progress achieved meaningful fat reductions, preserved lean mass, and reached their weight goals — together laying the foundation for long-term improvements in metabolic health.

Body Fat: Tackling the Root Risk

Platos users saw measurable changes in body fat within the first three months. Two-thirds reduced their body fat by at least 5%, and half went further, achieving reductions of 10% or more. By six months, these results strengthened: two-thirds of users had achieved at least 10% fat loss, marking a significant improvement in their metabolic health trajectory.

Why body fat matters
Carrying too much fat can raise blood sugar, put extra stress on the heart, and increase the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Losing excess fat improves metabolism and lowers these risks, setting the stage for better long-term health.

The Ripple Effect on Metabolic Health

Fat reductions of this magnitude are not just numbers on a chart. They translate into:

• Better insulin sensitivity.
• Improved blood sugar control.
• Healthier cholesterol and blood pressure.

By reducing fat, Platos users are addressing the root risk of metabolic disease — supporting a healthier trajectory over time.

Lean Mass: Preserving What Matters

Healthy fat loss goes hand-in-hand with preserving lean mass, which includes muscles, bones, organs, and water that support strength and overall health. Preserving lean mass while losing fat ensures results are sustainable and safe.

By three months, nearly 60% of users preserved or increased their lean mass, and by six months, half continued to maintain or gain lean mass even as fat decreased. On average, lean mass decreased by only about 3% from baseline by month six, showing that most users preserved muscle while achieving significant fat loss.

Why lean mass matters
When losing fat, some lean mass can also decrease. Preserving muscle is essential because it keeps metabolism active and calories burning at rest, supports strength, mobility, and energy levels, and helps sustain fat loss over time.

Weight: Delivering on User Goals

While body fat is the root risk, weight remains an important metric for users. Nearly half (46%) of users lost at least 5% of their weight within three months, and by six months, 62% had achieved this milestone. Early responders maintained their momentum, with 23% achieving at least 10% weight loss within three months and sustaining it through six months.

Why 5% and 10% matter
Even modest weight loss of just 5% improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. At 10%, the benefits expand, further reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

See What’s Possible with Platos

For now, the message is clear: Platos users are making real progress — reducing fat, preserving lean mass, managing weight, and improving metabolic health — and you can too. Six months of consistent tracking is just the beginning. Platos turns every data point into actionable insights, helping users take proactive steps to support their metabolic health and stay on track for lasting results.

Ready to experience these results for yourself?

Click the button below to get your Platos Monitor from any of our partner pharmacies in Nigeria. Take a proactive step toward better metabolic health today.

Warm regards,
The Platos Product Squad.

Note: Results reflect users who maintained consistent tracking over the study period. Individual results may vary. The Platos Monitor is designed to support your health journey through comprehensive tracking and data-driven insights.

We’re excited to announce our latest product updates—designed to redefine how you monitor your health with Platos Monitor. Built on months of research and user feedback, this release introduces Baseline, a science-backed approach to body composition tracking, along with refined goals, personalised insights, biomarker scheduling, and seamless blood glucose syncing.

Together, these updates empower you to build consistency, focus on what matters, and track progress you can trust.

Let’s dive into what’s new, why it matters, and how to get started.

1. More accurate Baseline, backed by science

Why It Matters

Every health journey starts with a baseline. Until now, your first Platos Monitor reading was automatically set as your baseline, but a single reading can be easily influenced by factors such as hydration, meals, or activity, leading to results that don’t reflect your true body composition.

How It Works

We now guide you through five consistent morning measurements, before eating, drinking, or starting your day. The average of these readings becomes your Baseline, giving you a more accurate view of your body composition from day one (1)

💡 Why mornings?
Morning readings—taken naked, pre-breakfast, and after using the bathroom—reduce variability caused by food, hydration, or activity. Research shows this method delivers the most accurate and consistent results (2). While this routine is essential during your baseline setup, we recommend following it every time you take a body composition reading to keep your progress accurate and meaningful.

What to Do

• New to Platos? You’ll be guided through the baseline setup automatically after sign-up.
• Existing user? Tap the Start Your Baseline Journey card in your Diary to begin. If you’ve already started, you’re right on track. If you’ve completed it, your new baseline is set!

2. Personalized Insights, based on your goals

We’ve redefined  Goals to better reflect what matters most to you. You can now choose up to two focused goals from five options: Manage weight, Build and maintain muscle, Improve body health, Prevent disease, and Improve a health condition. These goals personalise the insights you see across Platos, making your progress more meaningful and actionable.

This affect your Platos app experience in 2 ways:

Tailored Diary metrics: Your selected goals determine which biomarkers are highlighted in your Diary, helping you stay focused on what matters most. For example, if your goal is to Manage Weight, your Diary will highlight Weight, Body Fat %, BMI, and Waist Circumference—key metrics for tracking weight-related progress.

More personalised Body Summary: After each measurement, your Body Summary is now informed by your goals and any health conditions you’ve shared.

What to do

• Tap the blue text in your Diary tab to select or change your goal.
• Select up to two goals that align with your current focus.
• Go to Profile > Medical Data to add or update any health conditions, if applicable.

3. Biomarker scheduling

Once your baseline is set, you can now schedule weekly reminders in the app to help you build a consistent routine for your check-ins. Choose the day that works best for you, and let Platos help you stay on track.

What to Do

• Go to your profile.
• Tap “Body composition scan reminder.”
• Select your preferred day and time.

Platos will now automatically remind you when your next body composition measurement is due.

4. Blood glucose syncing: Track seamlessly, share effortlessly

You can now sync Bluetooth-enabled glucometers, like Accu-Chek Instant, directly with Platos to monitor your blood glucose readings. Until now, our customers have done this through Apple, Google Health Connect integrations, or manually. Manual logging of blood glucose readings can be time-consuming and error-prone, while some customers prefer direct sync with Platos.

This update improves the experience of customers and healthcare providers monitoring blood glucose alongside body fat and other metabolic health markers with both Platos Monitor and Platos RPM.

How it works

To connect your Bluetooth-enabled glucometer to Platos:

• Follow the instructions on your Accu-chek device or other Bluetooth-enabled blood glucose monitor.
• Go to Profile on Platos > Smart Device, turn on your Bluetooth, and tap Connect New Device.
• Choose Other Device, then select your glucometer when it appears.
• Enter the code on the back of your device to pair it.
• Once paired, take your glucose reading. It will sync automatically into the app.
• Specify the type of reading (e.g., Fasting, Random) and Save.

Built for Accuracy. Designed for You.

This release is more than features update—it’s a complete upgrade to how you use Platos Monitor. With a more accurate Baseline, smarter goal-driven insights, scheduled check-ins, and seamless glucose syncing, you’re equipped with the structure, clarity, and personalisation you need to track what matters and make confident health decisions.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. We hope these updates help you stay consistent and make meaningful progress toward your goals.

👉 Update or download the Platos app to get started.
💬 Have questions or feedback? Chat with us on WhatsApp

Warm regards,

The Platos Product Squad.

References

1. Heymsfield et al. (2022, Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics): Multi-day baseline measurements improve accuracy in body composition tracking by reducing day-to-day biological variability—critical for reliable assessments of fat and muscle mass in clinical and fitness settings.
   Heymsfield, S. B., Peterson, C. M., Thomas, D. M., et al. (2022). How body composition techniques measure up for reliability across technical and biological variability. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 122(6), 1183–1197.
2. Nana et al. (2012, Med Sci Sports Exerc): Morning, fasted DXA scans yield the least variability in body composition readings, minimizing day-to-day measurement error and improving reliability for weight, lean mass, and fat mass assessments.
   Nana A, Slater GJ, Hopkins WG, Burke LM. Effects of daily activities on dual‑energy X‑ray absorptiometry measurements of body composition in active people.Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2012;44(1):180–189. doi:10.1249/MSS.0b013e318225fceb

Today, I'm excited to announce Platos Health's evolution—Platos 3.0—into a proactive and preventive health economy. We've also closed our $1.4 million pre-seed financing, which included support from Google for Startups, Invest International, and experienced angel investors from global innovators such as Google, Tesla, and Unicredit. This milestone underscores our commitment to addressing chronic health risks linked to excess body fat and metabolic disorders.

Our Journey: From Diabetes Management to Prevention

When we founded Platos in 2020, we launched Nigeria’s first fully digital diabetes care solution, Zest, successfully serving thousands of users and earning recognition through partnerships and publications in the International Journal of Diabetes and Technology (IJDT).

However, scaling impact required broader collaboration, prompting us to expand into remote patient monitoring with prominent Nigerian institutions like the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Chronicare (affiliated with ISN, Roche’s largest distributor in Nigeria), and AIICO Health Insurance.

Uncovering Hidden Health Risks

In analyzing data from our users, we identified significant underlying issues:

• 68% of our customers were overweight or obese (mean BMI: 28.7 kg/m²).
• Only 3.8% had ideal fat mass levels.

This data revealed a critical issue: excess body fat, especially visceral fat, significantly increases risks for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and metabolic syndrome—even among slim individuals. Notably:

• 34% of individuals with normal BMI had unhealthy levels of body fat.
• 31% showed signs of "lean diabetes," a condition affecting individuals with normal weight but dangerous internal fat levels.

Why a Proactive Health Economy?

Chronic diseases related to metabolic health, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, are not limited to any one region—they represent a global health crisis affecting billions. In Nigeria, these issues are particularly acute due to limited healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of obesity affecting 45 million people, and rising chronic disease rates. However, these challenges are mirrored worldwide, even in advanced economies, where hidden risks like visceral fat contribute significantly to health burdens. We realised the most effective way to tackle these universal health challenges is through proactive prevention—empowering individuals everywhere to manage their health actively, rather than relying solely on overstretched healthcare systems.

Platos Monitor

To address these needs, we developed Platos Monitor, a comprehensive self-monitoring system combining affordable, medical-grade hardware (priced between ₦80,000 and ₦120,000) with advanced AI-powered software.

Platos Monitor:

• Features Platos Intelligence, our AI-powered tool built on Google's Gemini AI, offering personalised insights and actionable health recommendations.
• Tracks over 20 vital health markers, including body composition, blood glucose, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and physical activity.
• Integrates with Apple Health and Google Health Connect.

Early user feedback has been highly encouraging:

• 59.4% expressed they would be significantly disappointed without Platos Monitor.
• 33% achieved clinically meaningful weight loss (≥5%) within three months.

Launching Nationwide in Nigeria and Beyond

In Nigeria, we've established partnerships with over 300 pharmacy stores, including Medplus, Alpha Pharmacy, Purelife, and Justrite, significantly increasing accessibility and adoption. In 2024 alone, we achieved a 500% revenue increase and a remarkable 2754% growth in biomarker logs, tracking 49 unique biomarkers.

Research and Global Ambitions

We're actively collaborating with our Platos’ Scientific Advisory Board experts, including Professor Hanno Pijl and Dr. Jimoh Itopa, to explore dietary strategies for fat regulation, brown fat activation, and metabolic restoration, inspired by global pioneers like Dr. William Li. This research will power our future product, Platos Monitor Plus—a subscription service offering deeper health insights and personalised dietary and metabolic guidance.

As we solidify our impact in Nigeria, we're preparing to expand into other global emerging markets to further our mission.

At Platos, we believe health is deeply personal. With Platos 3.0, we are committed to equipping individuals everywhere with the tools to proactively manage their health, prevent chronic diseases, and live healthier, fuller lives.

Thank you for joining us on this transformative journey. Together, let's build a healthier future for everyone.

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our latest product enhancements, developed over the last three months to reshape and elevate your Platos experience. Today, we introduce Platos Intelligence, our innovative, AI-driven engine that transforms complex health data into meaningful, personalized insights—driving us further into the realm of personalized medicine.

What is Platos Intelligence?

Platos Intelligence harnesses the power of generative AI to interpret your health metrics and provide guidance tailored to your unique needs. By turning raw numbers into actionable insights, it simplifies decision-making about your health progress, nutrition, and lifestyle changes.

Our goal? To ensure you don’t have to sift through endless data points. Instead, Platos Intelligence does the heavy lifting, making it easier than ever to understand what’s going on with your body and how to improve it.

1. Body Summary Including Body Score

We know that deciphering body composition data can be challenging, often requiring you to research complex terms on your own. With our new Body Summary, we’ve reimagined how you receive and interpret health information.

Body Summary: Two Key Components

• Quantitative Body Score: A single, easy-to-understand number that reflects how your body composition compares to healthy ranges. Think of it as a quick, at-a-glance indicator of your overall health.
• Qualitative Summary: A natural language narrative that “translates” your body composition into everyday language—no more guessing what your fat mass or muscle mass actually means for you.

How the Body Score Works

Your Body Score is calculated from a blend of key biomarkers—fat mass, water mass, bone minerals, protein, and muscle mass—and expressed as a weighted average (with 100% as the maximum score). As you move closer to (or further from) optimal ranges, your score updates dynamically. Colour-coding and real-time adjustments after each measurement make it simpler than ever to monitor meaningful progress.

Please note that significant improvements often take around three months of dedicated effort, though small, positive changes may be noticeable on a weekly basis. Always remember this is a guide, not a medical directive—consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Why It Matters

• Track Progress: A straightforward score helps you monitor how lifestyle choices impact your health over time.
• Set Goals: Identify which areas—like reducing fat mass or increasing muscle mass—can help you improve your Body Score and overall health.
• Motivate Healthy Habits: Seeing your score evolve is a tangible reminder to maintain and refine your day-to-day choices.

2.  Rethinking Nutrition with Nutrition Snapshot & Nutrition Summary

We understand that constant food logging is neither inspiring nor sustainable. Yet, many of us need guidance to ensure our eating habits serve our overall health goals. Enter our reimagined nutrition tools.

Nutrition Snapshot

Focused on a 4-week window, instead of logging indefinitely, capture food for a concentrated period of eating habits and discover which foods align best with specific health needs—be it weight management, blood pressure, or blood sugar control—then return for a new snapshot whenever you’re ready.

Nutrition Summary (Built on Your 4-Week Streak)

Powered by Platos Intelligence, we automatically analyze your dietary patterns over a month. You’ll uncover what you eat, how often, and how it relates to key health markers like body fat, weight, and metabolic health. Instead of piecing together information yourself, receive a clear, AI-driven understanding of the “what” and “why” behind your eating habits.

Why It Matters

• Clarity Without Exhaustion: Gain a snapshot of your nutritional habits without feeling pressured to track them continuously.
• Personalized Feedback: Identify foods that best support your health goals and conditions—cutting through guesswork and dietary confusion.

Transform Your Platos Experience
With the introduction of Platos Intelligence, we’re ushering in a new era of personalized health insights. By blending cutting-edge AI technology with intuitive design, we’re confident these updates will empower you to make more informed, effective choices. Whether you’re striving for optimal body fat and metabolic health or seeking a healthier relationship with food, these features lay the groundwork for sustainable, long-term health.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. We can’t wait to see how Platos Intelligence helps guide you toward a healthier, more informed future.

Warm regards,
Oyinkonsola and the Platos Product Squad.

Summary of a pilot study on Platos Diabetes Care for Reliance HMO enrollees

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and economic benefits of Platos, a virtual platform for chronic disease management, in managing diabetes for Reliance HMO enrollees.

Methods

This is a prospective longitudinal study. Enrollees of Reliance HMO with confirmed diabetes were informed about the program and those interested were referred to Platos for online consultations with a multidisciplinary team. Patients monitored their blood sugar, weight, and medication use through the Platos Monitor app and received guidance from a virtual coach. HbA1c was measured at baseline and after 3 months.

Results

Twelve patients started the program, and four completed 3 months of care. Findings include:

Reduced HbA1c: HbA1c levels showed improvement for the three patients who completed 3 months, with one achieving recommended glycemic control.

Reduced Fasting blood sugar: The average fasting blood sugar of the four patients who completed 12 weeks decreased by 12%.

Weight loss: The total weight of patients under treatment decreased by 4 kg over 12 weeks.

Reduced medication use: The total insulin dosage needed by patients decreased by 15%. Two patients achieved significant reductions (43% and 20%) in insulin use.

Cost savings: The reduced medication use resulted in estimated cost savings of over 88,000 Naira for the patients over 3 months.

Reduced emergency events: None of the enrollees experienced diabetes emergencies during the study, compared to one hospitalization before starting the program.

Limitations

The small sample size (4 patients completing 3 months) is a limitation. New enrollees who started later were not followed long enough to be included in this report. HbA1c for some patients was estimated using a formula instead of direct measurement to reduce costs.

Conclusion

Platos Diabetes Care showed promising results in improving glycemic control, reducing medication use, and potentially reducing healthcare costs for Reliance HMO enrollees. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these findings.

You can read the full manuscript here.

A summary of key findings from our retrospective study on the effectiveness of Platos diabetes care pathway for glycemic control.

Study led by Dr Itopa Jimoh, MBBS, MPH, DrPH

Background

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and its prevalence continues to increase at an alarming rate.

There were 3.6 million cases of diabetes in Nigeria in 2021 and only about 25% were estimated to be diagnosed and receiving treatment (1).

Maintaining good glycemic control is crucial to delaying or avoiding the complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM),  however, less than 5.4% of the estimated 3.6 million people living with diabetes in Nigeria achieved the recommended glycemic target of HbA1c below 7% in 2021 (1).

Aim

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Platos diabetes care in controlling blood sugar levels among T2DM patients in Nigeria.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively reviewed and analyzed the electronic medical records and patient-reported outcomes data obtained from the Platos remote monitoring service for T2DM between January 2020 and December 2022.  

Results

At the end of the third and sixth months of treatment, the proportion of patients with good glycemic control improved from 43.3% at the baseline to 70% in 3 months and 66.6% after 6 months at Platos.

This is a good result when compared to what is achieved in regular in-person clinics in Nigeria. In a multi-centric study in Nigeria, only 20.4% achieved good control.

In another study at a family medical clinic in southwest Nigeria, the proportion of people with good glycemic control ranged from 54.2% to 65.6% after at least 6 months of treatment.

At the end of the third and sixth months of treatment, those with normal blood sugar improved from 10% to 23.3% and 33.3%, respectively.

Those within the prediabetes range  initially increased from 33.3% to 46.7% after 3 months and then dropped to 33.3% after 6 months

This is a positive development showing that those with poor glycemic control transitioned to normal FBS through the prediabetes state, and

The trend could be expected to continue to improve as the proportion of patients with poor glycemic control reduced from 56.7%, at the baseline, to 26.7% and 6.7% after 3 and 6 months of treatment respectively.

Even in a worst-case scenario, assuming all the patients with missing data had poor glycemic control, such that at the end of the 3rd  and 6th months of treatment, 30% and 33.3% respectively had poor glycemic control (Figure 3), which would remain robust.

This represents a significant improvement on the baseline of 56.7% and better than that of a retrospective observational study conducted in 2020 at a family medical clinic in southwest Nigeria where the prevalence of poor glycemic control ranged from 34.4% to 45.8% among patients who were 40 years and above, in follow-up treatment for T2DM for at least 6 months (9).

These suggest that the T2DM patients seen remotely at Platos can achieve glycemic control which is better than those seen in a regular in-person diabetes clinic.

Conclusions:

• Overall, the study shows that the Platos diabetes care, delivered via the Platos Holistic Remote Patient Monitoring Platform, effectively controls blood sugar among patients living with T2DM in Nigeria.
• Telehealth/virtual care is an effective tool in the management of T2DM in Nigeria.
• The glycemic control obtained at Platos online platform is better than the result from an in-person tertiary diabetes care centre in southwest Nigeria and in another multi-centric study across Nigeria.

We are happy to announce our partnership with the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital in providing better access to care for people living with diabetes and other chronic conditions

About the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH)

The University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, is a distinguished tertiary Institution established in 1979 where healthcare, education, research and training of undergraduate medical students converge to provide health care. The facility is located at Calabar Municipality Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria.

About the Partnership

This partnership seeks to enable Patients of UCTH living with Chronic diseases such as Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity to remotely monitor their health and transmit critical health data to their Clinicians, and in turn, enable  Clinicians to leverage such data to adjust treatment plans. Clinicians can also decide to use Platos Telemedicine solutions to see patients online, thus facilitating faster and timely access to quality health care.

According to Dr Ofem, an Associate Professor of Medicine and Consultant Physician endocrinologist at UCTH, this partnership aims to provide a solution to one of the barriers most of our patients with chronic illnesses face, which is access to care. If they can access care from their homes and we interpret, Platos is providing such an opportunity, so long as it is well within the regulatory framework. It is a good idea to continue using technology to monitor our patients with chronic illnesses.

Dr Araga Steven, a Senior Registrar in the Endocrinology unit of UCTH also admits that there would be a reduced workload on busy clinic days for clinicians because a lot of our patients can now be attended to, through the app. “For the patients, it will reduce their waiting time by removing some hurdles such as getting patients’ folders, sorting payment and other issues before getting to see a Clinician. Even for those who would need a hospital visit, we would have had some relevant information about them, before coming to see us, which will help us monitor patient's progress and even the effects of the drugs prescribed, using available data and other tools. It will also help us identify complications, in case a patient develops any challenge while away from the Hospital, through monitoring via the Platos App.  I also think this Partnership will be a source of readily available data for research purposes. When compared to previous data, it can help us make better decisions for patients. Overall, there will be an improvement in the care given to our patients, enhanced knowledge for clinicians and help us make evidence-based decisions.

About Platos Health

Platos is an AI-powered platform for health monitoring and remote care. Patients measure their biomarkers, medication, nutrition and physical activity and transmit the data to Clinicians. Clinicians receive patient data and can adjust treatment plans when it matters most the most, from anywhere.

Platos has been used to manage thousands of patients living with Diabetes, hypertension, and other non-communicable diseases with incredible outcomes.

Platos is on a mission to make healthcare available to all.

To learn more, check https://platoshealth.com/

We are confident that this partnership will play a pivotal role in strengthening the healthcare infrastructure of Individuals living with chronic diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity in Calabar, and that our digital solution provides improved opportunities for Clinicians and other health care providers to monitor and interface with their patients through a remote patient monitoring technology.

Reviewed Dr Itopa Jimoh, MBBS, MPH, DrPH

Excess weight, including overweight and obesity, is a growing global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a significant risk factor for several chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, some types of cancer, and osteoarthritis.

How excess weight affects health

Too much fat around your middle can mess with your body's normal functions and make you more likely to get sick. This happens in several ways, including the extra strain of carrying around extra weight and changes in your hormones and metabolism. For example, fat cells release chemicals that can damage your tissues and organs, leading to a variety of health problems.

Here's an analogy that might help: Imagine your body is a car. Excess fat is like adding too much weight to your car. This extra load can strain the engine and other parts of the car, making it less efficient and more likely to break down.

Similarly, excess fat in your body can put extra stress on your organs and systems, making them less able to work properly and increasing your risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Chronic diseases linked to excess weight

Type 2 Diabetes

Being overweight has a big impact on getting type 2 diabetes. Excess body fat makes it harder for the body to use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that affects the body's ability to produce and use insulin that regulates blood sugar.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Excess weight can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke by raising blood pressure, bad cholesterol levels, and inflammation. These factors can damage arteries, making them more likely to clog and block blood flow. This raises the chances of having heart disease, stroke, or even dying from heart issues.

Certain Types of Cancer

Excess body fat is linked to an increased risk of developing several types of cancer. The link between obesity and cancer is complex due to the diversity of cancer types. A 2007 review by the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research established a strong connection between obesity and cancers of the oesophagus, pancreas, colon, rectum, breast, endometrium, and kidney, and a probable link to gallbladder cancer. Subsequent studies confirmed direct associations with various cancers, including breast, colon, rectum, endometrium, oesophagus, kidney, ovary, and pancreas

Osteoarthritis

Excess weight puts extra stress on the joints, particularly the knees, hips, and ankles. This can lead to the development of osteoarthritis, a painful and debilitating condition that causes the cartilage in the joints to wear down. Obesity is linked to osteoarthritis in the knee and hip, and about one-third of joint replacement surgeries involve obese patients. Additionally, carrying excess weight increases the likelihood of experiencing back pain, lower limb pain, and disability related to musculoskeletal conditions.

Weight loss is health gain

Obesity not only diminishes both the quality and duration of life but also escalates healthcare costs. Fortunately, there is encouraging news – shedding weight can mitigate some of the risks associated with obesity. Even a modest weight loss of 5 to 10 per cent of body weight can yield meaningful health advantages for individuals grappling with obesity, irrespective of whether they attain their "ideal" weight or embark on weight loss later in life.

Preventing excess weight and chronic diseases

The best way to prevent excess weight and chronic diseases is to maintain a healthy weight by adopting a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. This includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting processed foods and sugary drinks, and getting at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.

Managing excess weight and chronic diseases

If you are already overweight or obese, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized weight management plan. This may include lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications and increased physical activity, as well as medical interventions, such as medication or bariatric surgery. Early detection and management of chronic diseases are crucial for improving overall health and well-being.

Measuring weight and body composition

Monitoring your weight helps you understand where you are and can improve your weight and health outcomes. But weight alone doesn't paint the whole picture of your overall wellness. Understanding your body composition through data points such as visceral fat or fat distribution are vital insights for you, your dietitians, and your doctors when evaluating progress and setting health goals.

Conclusion

Excess weight is a significant health risk factor for several chronic diseases. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and working with your healthcare provider can help prevent excess weight gain and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Early detection and management of chronic diseases are essential for maintaining good health.

Take Action – pre-order your own Platos Smart Scales

List of sources

• Guh DP, Zhang W, Bansback N, Amarsi Z, Birmingham CL, Anis AH. The incidence of co-morbidities related to obesity and overweight: a systematic review and meta-analysis.BMC Public Health. 2009; 9:88.
• Colditz GA, Willett WC, Rotnitzky A, Manson JE. Weight gain as a risk factor for clinical diabetes mellitus in women.Ann Intern Med. 1995; 122:4816.
• Koh-Banerjee P, Wang Y, Hu FB, Spiegelman D, Willett WC, Rimm EB. Changes in body weight and body fat distribution as risk factors for clinical diabetes in US men.Am J Epidemiol. 2004; 159:11509.
• Rocha VZ, Libby P. Obesity, inflammation, and atherosclerosis.Nat Rev Cardiol. 2009; 6:399409.
• Knowler WC, Barrett-Connor E, Fowler SE, et al. Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or metformin.N Engl J Med. 2002; 346:393403.
• Li G, Zhang P, Wang J, et al. The long-term effect of lifestyle interventions to prevent diabetes in the China Da Qing Diabetes Prevention Study: a 20-year follow-up study.Lancet. 2008; 371:17839.Tuomilehto J, Lindstrom J, Eriksson JG, et al. Prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus by changes in lifestyle among subjects with impaired glucose tolerance.N Engl J Med. 2001; 344:134350.
• Bogers RP, Bemelmans WJ, Hoogenveen RT, et al. Association of overweight with increased risk of coronary heart disease partly independent of blood pressure and cholesterol levels: a meta-analysis of 21 cohort studies including more than 300,000 persons.Arch Intern Med. 2007; 167:17208.
• Strazzullo P, DElia L, Cairella G, Garbagnati F, Cappuccio FP, Scalfi L. Excess body weight and incidence of stroke: meta-analysis of prospective studies with 2 million participants.Stroke. 2010; 41:e41826.
• McGee DL. Body mass index and mortality: a meta-analysis based on person-level data from twenty-six observational studies.Ann Epidemiol. 2005; 15:8797.
• Wing RR. Long-term effects of a lifestyle intervention on weight and cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: four-year results of the Look AHEAD trial.Arch Intern Med. 2010; 170:156675.
• Dengo AL, Dennis EA, Orr JS, et al. Arterial destiffening with weight loss in overweight and obese middle-aged and older adults.Hypertension. 2010; 55:85561.de las Fuentes L, Waggoner AD, Mohammed BS, et al. Effect of moderate diet-induced weight loss and weight regain on cardiovascular structure and function.J Am Coll Cardiol. 2009; 54:237681.
• American Institute for Cancer Research, World Cancer Research Fund. Food, nutrition, physical activity and the prevention of cancer. Washington, D.C.:American Institute for Cancer Research; 2007.
• Guh DP, Zhang W, Bansback N, Amarsi Z, Birmingham CL, Anis AH. The incidence of co-morbidities related to obesity and overweight
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults. 2002. Accessed December 13, 2023.Anandacoomarasamy A, Caterson I, Sambrook P, Fransen M, March L. The impact of obesity on the musculoskeletal system.Int J Obes (Lond). 2008; 32:21122.
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.Clinical Guidelines on the Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults. 2002. Accessed December 13, 2023.

We've got some fantastic news for you – the Platos team has been working on some updates, and we couldn't be more excited to share the details with you!

Here's a quick rundown of the awesome updates we have for you:

1. Pre-order Platos Smart Scales for Health Monitoring

Over the last 3 years, thousands of patients and their clinicians have used Platos to manage diabetes and other chronic conditions with incredible clinical outcomes such as lower blood sugar and controlled blood pressure.

There is strong and consistent evidence that being overweight or obese increases the chance of developing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension,  and our data shows that 75% of people living with diabetes managed with Platos are overweight or obese.

Studies have also shown that weight management is highly beneficial in the prevention and treatment of these conditions. To help our customers achieve their health goals, we are excited to announce the release of Platos Smart Scales.

These affordable, high-quality devices are game-changers in the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

Starting today, you can pre-pay as low as 5,000 Naira to book your Platos Smart Scale and save up to 10,000 Naira plus other amazing perks. Follow this link to learn more about Platos Smart Scales and get yours.

2. Google Fit Integration and More!

You can now sync health data from 3rd party monitoring devices to Platos through Google Fit. To do this, head over to your profile, select Google Fit and enable sync with Google Fit. This feature will allow you to automatically collect and view biomarkers such as blood glucose, blood pressure, and others from 3rd party smart devices within your Platos App.

3. Expanded access to care providers

In the last 3 months, we have partnered with more hospitals and clinicians to expand access to remote monitoring services, so that you can get timely access to care from the providers you already trust. A simple hospital code will connect your care provider with your Platos account and you can start enjoying remote care. Hospital terms and conditions apply!

Reach out to us on WhatsApp to get the hospital code and take control of your health journey.

4. Logging Your Eats, Hassle-free!

For iOS users, say goodbye to food diary stress! We've improved the food log with over 50 different meal recommendations to help you effortlessly track your intake and adopt or maintain that healthy lifestyle. You also get a visual representation of your daily intake, calories, macronutrient recommendations and plate ratio because eating well shouldn't be a puzzle.

5. Total Makeover of the Android App

The Platos app is getting a new look, and a new app is now available for download on the Play Store.

Experience a revamped biomarkers section with a user-friendly interface. Now, related biomarkers, such as fasting and random blood sugar, are conveniently grouped under 'Blood Sugar' to help you better understand associated health markers.

Note: In this update, we have taken our biomarker trends to revamp them and make them more actionable. Expect it during the next update but biomarkers' history remains at your disposal.

6. iOS App Upgrade for Clinicians!

Clinicians, we've got you covered too! Our iOS app for clinicians is now live! Clinicians can now use Platos on iPhones and iPads to remotely monitor patients, use diet prescription tools, as well as conduct virtual consultations.

To enjoy these new features, Update or Download your Platos App

Do you have questions or feedback? Chat us up on WhatsApp.

Thank you for being a valued member of the Platos community. Your health journey is our priority, and we can't wait to continue this adventure with you!

Cheers to good health,

The Platos Team 🌿✨

I am thrilled to inform you that Platos is now available on iOS, thus making Platos products available to Apple mobile device users.

Monitor holistic health, deliver and access care on Apple devices

Patients can now monitor their health and connect to clinicians through Platos on Apple devices.

This release comes with limited functionalities. Here’s a breakdown for you:

1. Track biomarkers and food and empower clinicians to make data-driven decisions

Log and track important biomarkers like Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure, Weight, and HbA1c.

Understanding the relationship between your diet and your health is essential. Track your food with the food log to know how your diet influences your health and achieve better health outcomes.

Functionalities such as biomarker trends, macronutrient breakdown, eating patterns, and library are coming soon.

2. Stay motivated & form healthy habits with Coach (beta)

With Coach, forming healthy habits is a lot easier.  Your coach motivates you, guides your daily tasks, and sends reminders to track your biomarkers and log your food.

3. Integrate connected medical devices through Apple Health

Platos now allows you to connect Bluetooth-connected devices such as glucometers, blood pressure monitors, and weight scales and import your data automatically to Platos.

This saves patients time and improves the accuracy of data shared with clinicians.

Follow these simple steps to sync Platos with Apple Health and start enjoying this feature.

Steps:

1. Open your profile
2. Click on Apple Health
3. Click on 'Enable Apple Health'
4. Click on 'Synchronize Now'

That's it. You are all set up.

This feature will soon be available for Android users in the near future.

As we update the app, we will communicate improved functionalities.

If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to share with us at support@platoshealth.com or reach out to us on WhatsApp.

Thank you.

Yours,

Oyinkonsola Oladeinde

Product Manager at Platos Health.