Service Evaluation
Key Takeaway: Noom (Expert Score: 4.1/5.0)
Noom earns 4.1/5.0 for its psychology-based curriculum using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Noom Med GLP-1 telehealth integration, BBB A+ Accredited status since 2021, and CDC Diabetes Prevention Program recognition. Ideal for users seeking sustainable behavior change or clinician-guided GLP-1 access. Material context: $62 million class action settlement (2022) over dark pattern auto-renewal practices, FTC 2021 investigation on advertising claims, 1.08/5 BBB customer review score across 370 reviews, and BBB high-complaint-volume alert.
In this Noom review, BestGuide analyzes a digital weight-loss program that combines psychology-based behavioral coaching with GLP-1 telehealth services. Noom earns an Expert Score of 4.1/5.0, reflecting strong product fundamentals balanced against material regulatory and customer service context that prospective users should weigh carefully. This review covers the Noom Weight Loss program, Noom Med GLP-1 integration, BBB profile, the 2022 $62 million class action settlement on dark patterns, the 2021 FTC investigation on advertising claims, current pricing, and how Noom compares to alternatives.
Noom’s approach is built around a curriculum based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques delivered through daily 10 to 15-minute app lessons. For users evaluating digital weight-loss programs in 2026, the pricing structure has become more complex with the Noom Med GLP-1 program. Compare Noom with other top-rated weight loss programs to evaluate behavior-change-only versus medication-integrated options against your goals and budget.
How Does Noom Work?
Noom’s process begins with an online quiz that takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The assessment collects information about goals, lifestyle, eating habits, and medical history to create a personalized weight loss plan. Based on responses, Noom estimates a timeline for reaching the goal weight and sets a daily calorie budget.
The core Noom Weight Loss program revolves around daily app-based lessons of 5 to 15 minutes each. Lessons focus on CBT principles to reframe thinking about food, stress, and exercise. Users log meals using a database categorized into a green, yellow, and red system based on caloric density (not nutritional value), encouraging more whole foods without making any food group off-limits.
For users interested in medical weight loss, Noom Med offers a separate track. After a video consultation with a licensed clinician, eligible individuals can receive prescriptions for GLP-1 medications including compounded semaglutide and brand-name medications like Wegovy and Zepbound. The Noom Med platform combines coaching, app access, and medication into bundled monthly pricing (detailed in the Cost section below).
Beyond core coaching, Noom includes Welli (AI-powered nutrition planning), Muscle Defense (fitness tools), and an active community of users (commonly referred to as “Noomers”). All features are included with every plan at no extra cost per the platform’s 2026 disclosure.
Who Is Noom Best For?
Per BestGuide’s analysis, Noom is best for users seeking long-term sustainable weight management through behavioral change rooted in psychology, users who are clinically overweight or obese (BMI 30+ or 27+ with a related condition) and want clinician-guided GLP-1 medication access through telehealth, users comfortable with self-paced digital coaching versus in-person support, and users in states where Noom Med GLP-1 prescriptions are offered (Compounded GLP-1 medications are not available in Alabama, Louisiana, or Mississippi, and telehealth medication is limited or prohibited in Virginia).
Noom is less suitable for users with budget constraints (true GLP-1 program cost is materially above advertised entry prices, detailed below), users sensitive to documented dark-pattern auto-renewal practices (covered in Regulatory History below), users in restricted states for GLP-1, users requiring immediate live phone support (Noom uses async text coaching plus phone for billing only), and users who prefer programs with in-person community meetings (Weight Watchers offers stronger in-person support).
Noom Standout Features
Psychology-Based CBT Curriculum: Noom is built on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy principles, with daily lessons designed to increase awareness of eating triggers and provide tools to manage them. This is a genuine differentiator versus calorie-counting or points-based programs. A 2016 study published in Scientific Reports analyzed 35,921 Noom users over a nine-month period and found 78% lost weight while using the app.
Noom Med GLP-1 Integration: Launched in 2023, Noom Med is one of the few telehealth platforms combining GLP-1 medication management with structured CBT behavioral coaching. The integration is meaningful because behavioral coaching may help address the weight regain pattern common to GLP-1 discontinuation. Noom Med requires a video consultation before prescribing (more rigorous than some async-only competitors).
Caloric Density Food System: The green, yellow, and red food categorization simplifies nutrition choices without creating forbidden foods. The system encourages low-density foods like fruits and vegetables for satiety on a calorie budget, while keeping all food groups available.
CDC Diabetes Prevention Program Recognition: Noom is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a proven diabetes prevention program, an external validation of the platform’s behavior-change methodology.
Bundled Coaching with Medication: Unlike GLP-1-only telehealth providers, Noom Med bundles medication with personal coaching, group sessions, regular clinician check-ins, and the full CBT curriculum into one monthly cost. For users who plan to engage with coaching, this can be more cost-effective than separate coaching plus medication services.
HSA/FSA Accepted: Noom accepts Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) payments for all treatment plans, which can produce meaningful tax savings for eligible users.
Noom Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| BBB A+ Accredited Since 2021: BBB Accredited Business since October 19, 2021 with highest letter grade. 17 years in business per BBB profile. | BBB Customer Review Score 1.08/5: Across 370 reviews. 693 BBB complaints over the last 3 years; 126 closed in the last 12 months. BBB published special alert: “publishes 1 out of every 5 complaints handled through conciliation process” due to high complaint volume. |
| Psychology-Based CBT Curriculum: Daily lessons based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques; 2016 Scientific Reports study of 35,921 users found 78% lost weight over 9 months. | $62M Class Action Settlement (2022): Noom paid $56M cash plus $6M subscription credits to settle class action alleging dark pattern auto-renewal practices affecting approximately 2 million users. Settlement required 2 years of business practice changes. |
| Noom Med GLP-1 Integration: One of few telehealth providers combining GLP-1 medication with structured CBT coaching; video consultation required before prescribing. | FTC 2021 Investigation: FTC investigated Noom in 2021 over allegations of unsubstantiated weight-loss advertising claims; settled. The matter is part of broader FTC enforcement on weight-loss product marketing. |
| CDC Diabetes Prevention Program Recognition: External validation of behavior-change methodology. | Advertised vs Real Pricing Gap: “$69/month” advertising refers to membership only; compounded semaglutide costs $279/month additional ($837 billed every 12 weeks). True GLP-1 cost is materially above entry advertising. |
| HSA/FSA Accepted: Tax-advantaged payment options for eligible users. | GLP-1 State Restrictions: Compounded GLP-1 medications not available in Alabama, Louisiana, or Mississippi. Telehealth medication limited or prohibited in Virginia. |
| Bundled Coaching + Medication: Unlike async-only GLP-1 providers (e.g., Ro at $149/month), Noom Med bundles coaching, app, group sessions, and clinician check-ins into one price. | Text-Based Coaching: Primary coaching is asynchronous in-app chat with responses within 24 hours. Phone support is limited to billing and technical questions only (8am-8pm). |
| Welli AI + Muscle Defense: AI nutrition planning and fitness tools included with every plan. | No Mid-Cycle Cancellation on GLP-1: Compounded semaglutide billed every 12 weeks ($852.27) with no monthly option and no mid-cycle cancellation refunds. |
Is Noom Legit?
Yes, Noom, Inc. is a legitimate company. Founded in 2008 (Business Started July 25, 2008; Business Incorporated December 18, 2008) and headquartered at 450 W 33rd St Fl 11, New York, NY 10001-2603. Co-founders are Artem Petakov (President/Co-Founder) and Saeju Jeong (Co-Founder/CEO). Per the BBB profile, the company has been in business for 17 years.
Legitimacy and operational markers include:
- BBB Accredited Business: Accredited since October 19, 2021
- BBB Rating A+: Highest BBB letter grade
- CDC Recognition: Recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a proven diabetes prevention program
- Peer-Reviewed Research: 2016 study published in Scientific Reports analyzed 35,921 users with 78% reporting weight loss over a nine-month period
- 17 Years in Business: Per BBB profile
- Established User Base: Noom reported 45 million users and was valued at $4.2 billion as of May 2021 per public reporting
- Licensed Telehealth Clinicians: Noom Med uses board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners for prescriptions
Noom Med specifically operates as a compliant telehealth platform, with prescriptions issued by licensed clinicians following comprehensive health assessment. Standard medical guidelines apply: GLP-1 medications require qualifying BMI thresholds (30+ or 27+ with related conditions) and ongoing clinical oversight. The regulatory history (detailed below) does not change Noom’s fundamental legitimacy but represents material context for prospective subscribers.
Noom BBB Rating
The Noom, Inc. BBB profile shows a notable gap between Noom’s BBB Accreditation and letter grade (both strong positive indicators) and the customer review score and complaint volume (both materially concerning indicators). Prospective customers should weigh both sides of the profile.
- BBB Rating: A+ (highest BBB letter grade)
- BBB Accreditation: BBB Accredited Business since October 19, 2021
- Customer Review Score: 1.08/5 stars across 370 customer reviews
- Total BBB Complaints (Last 3 Years): 693
- BBB Complaints Closed (Last 12 Months): 126
- Special BBB Alert: “Please be advised that due to the high volume of complaints received for this business, BBB publishes 1 out of every 5 complaints handled through our conciliation process.”
- BBB File Opened: November 17, 2014
- Business Started: July 25, 2008
- Business Incorporated: December 18, 2008
- Years in Business: 17
- Type of Entity: Corporation
- Local BBB: BBB Serving Metropolitan New York
- Headquarters: 450 W 33rd St Fl 11, New York, NY 10001-2603
- Co-Founder/President: Artem Petakov
- Co-Founder/CEO: Saeju Jeong
- Business Categories: Health and Wellness, Weight Loss, Exercise Programs, Apps, Diet Plans
The 1.08/5 customer review score across 370 reviews is one of the lowest customer scores in BestGuide’s broader services coverage, materially below the 3.94/5 score earned by some peer health-and-wellness providers. The 693 complaints over 3 years and the BBB special alert about publishing 1 of every 5 complaints (due to high volume) are signals that complaint patterns are systemic rather than isolated. Common themes in BBB customer reviews include billing disputes, difficulty canceling auto-renewing subscriptions, automatic charges after free trials, and refund handling for prepaid subscription periods. These themes echo the practices that led to the 2022 class action settlement (detailed below).
Noom Regulatory History
In the interest of full transparency, prospective customers should be aware of the 2022 class action settlement and 2021 FTC investigation. These do not affect Noom’s fundamental operational legitimacy or BBB accreditation status (which remains active), but they represent material regulatory and consumer-protection context, particularly given that BBB customer reviews continue to flag similar themes.
$62 Million Class Action Settlement (February 2022), Dark Pattern Auto-Renewal Practices: In February 2022, Noom Inc. agreed to pay $56 million cash plus provide $6 million in subscription credits (combined value $62 million) to settle a putative class action in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The class action alleged Noom used “dark pattern” subscription practices that auto-enrolled users in multi-month plans and made cancellation difficult, affecting approximately 2 million users. Plaintiffs alleged charges ranging from $45 to $400 without clear consent, with several users describing free trials that converted to paid plans they were told to cancel through coaches.
As part of the settlement, Noom agreed to substantially enhance auto-renewal disclosures, require customers to take a separate affirmative action (such as checkbox or digital signature) to accept auto-renewal, provide a button on the account page for easier cancellation, and adopt these business practice changes for a period of 2 years. The settlement received final court approval in July 2022. Noom co-founders stated they disagreed with the claims but believed the settlement was the best path forward.
FTC 2021 Investigation, Weight-Loss Advertising Claims: The Federal Trade Commission investigated Noom in 2021 over allegations of unsubstantiated advertising claims related to weight-loss outcomes. The matter was resolved through settlement. The FTC investigation is part of broader federal enforcement activity targeting weight-loss product marketing across the industry.
Ongoing BBB Customer Complaint Patterns: Despite the 2022 settlement and required business practice changes, BBB customer reviews from 2024-2026 continue to document themes related to subscription cancellation difficulty, automatic charges after trials, and refund handling. The BBB special alert noting publication of “1 out of every 5 complaints handled” due to high volume reflects ongoing complaint flow rather than resolved historical issues.
These items factor into the 4.1 score: they do not invalidate Noom’s product fundamentals (which remain strong on CBT methodology and CDC recognition) but provide material context for users sensitive to subscription practices and consumer protection issues. Prospective customers considering Noom subscriptions should pay close attention to billing terms, cancellation policies, and trial-to-paid conversion mechanics before enrolling.
Noom Cost: How Much Does Noom Cost?
Noom pricing varies significantly between the core Weight Loss program and the Noom Med GLP-1 program. Recent independent reviews have flagged a gap between advertised entry prices and true total cost for GLP-1 programs.
| Program | Pricing Detail |
|---|---|
| Noom Weight Loss (Core) | App-only behavior coaching. Monthly and annual plans available with promotional pricing. |
| Noom Med Membership Fee | “$69/month” advertised; this is the membership fee only and does not include medication. |
| Compounded Semaglutide (with Noom Med) | $149-$279/month additional (bundled monthly options vary). Billed every 12 weeks ($837-$852.27 quarterly) with no mid-cycle cancellation. |
| Brand-Name GLP-1 (Wegovy, Zepbound) | $299-$499/month membership tier depending on medication, plus medication cost which can run $900-$1,500/month without insurance coverage. |
| Payment Methods | HSA/FSA accepted for all treatment plans |
The pricing gap between “$69/month” advertising and the real GLP-1 cost ($279+/month for compounded semaglutide) is documented in independent 2026 reviews and is a key consideration before enrolling. The Noom care team assists with insurance prior authorization for brand-name medications, which can substantially reduce out-of-pocket cost if coverage is obtained.
Final Verdict: Noom Review
Noom earns an Expert Score of 4.1/5.0 from BestGuide. The product fundamentals are genuinely strong: the CBT psychology curriculum is a legitimate differentiator backed by peer-reviewed research and CDC Diabetes Prevention Program recognition. The Noom Med GLP-1 integration is among the few telehealth offerings combining medication with structured behavioral coaching, and the bundled pricing can be competitive versus separate medication and coaching services. The BBB Accredited Business status (since 2021) and A+ letter grade are positive third-party indicators.
The 4.1 score (rather than higher) reflects material context that prospective customers should weigh. The 2022 $62 million class action settlement over dark pattern auto-renewal practices affecting 2 million users is significant. The 2021 FTC investigation on unsubstantiated weight-loss advertising claims is additional regulatory history. Most importantly for current evaluation, the 1.08/5 BBB customer review score across 370 reviews and the BBB special alert about publishing 1 of every 5 complaints (due to high volume) suggest customer service patterns echoing the practices that led to the 2022 settlement, despite required business changes. The advertised-versus-real-pricing gap on Noom Med GLP-1 plans is another transparency consideration.
For users committed to behavioral change through CBT methodology with budget tolerance and willingness to manage subscription terms carefully, Noom remains one of the better-researched digital weight-loss platforms. For users prioritizing transparency in billing or who want easy cancellation, alternative behavior-change apps or in-person programs may be better fits. Compare the best weight loss programs to evaluate Noom against alternatives like Weight Watchers, Calibrate, Ro, and other behavior-change or GLP-1 telehealth services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Noom
What do experts say about Noom?
BestGuide gives Noom an Expert Score of 4.1/5.0. Strengths: BBB A+ Accredited Business since 2021, CBT psychology-based curriculum (2016 Scientific Reports study found 78% of 35,921 users lost weight over 9 months), CDC Diabetes Prevention Program recognition, Noom Med GLP-1 telehealth integration (one of few platforms combining medication with structured coaching), 17 years in business, HSA/FSA accepted. Considerations: 2022 $62M class action settlement on dark pattern auto-renewal practices, FTC 2021 investigation on advertising claims, 1.08/5 BBB customer review score across 370 reviews, BBB special alert about high complaint volume, advertised-vs-real pricing gap on GLP-1 programs.
Is Noom worth it in 2026?
For users committed to behavioral change through CBT methodology and willing to manage subscription terms carefully, Noom can be a strong choice. The CBT psychology curriculum and CDC recognition are genuine differentiators. For users prioritizing transparent billing or easy cancellation, the 2022 class action history and ongoing BBB customer complaint patterns are material considerations. Compare Noom against alternatives before enrolling.
How does Noom compare to other weight loss programs?
Noom differs from Weight Watchers by focusing on CBT and caloric density rather than a points system. WW has stronger in-person community meetings; Noom is more individualized and educational with daily lessons. Compared to GLP-1-only providers like Ro ($149/month async-only), Noom Med adds video consultations, CBT lessons, and personal coaching at comparable bundled pricing. Compared to Calibrate, Noom’s CBT depth is stronger but customer service patterns are weaker per BBB data.
How much does Noom cost?
Noom Weight Loss core program: monthly and annual plans with promotional pricing varying by enrollment. Noom Med: “$69/month” advertised membership fee is membership only; compounded semaglutide adds $149-$279/month (billed every 12 weeks at $837-$852.27 quarterly, no mid-cycle cancellation). Brand-name GLP-1 medications (Wegovy, Zepbound) run $299-$499/month membership plus $900-$1,500/month medication without insurance. HSA/FSA accepted for all plans.
Does Noom work for weight loss?
Per a 2016 study published in Scientific Reports analyzing 35,921 Noom users over a nine-month period, 78% reported weight loss while using the app. The CBT methodology is recognized by the CDC as a proven diabetes prevention program. Individual results vary based on engagement with the curriculum, lifestyle factors, and adherence.
What is Noom Med?
Noom Med is Noom’s telehealth service connecting users with licensed clinicians (board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners) who evaluate and prescribe GLP-1 medications including compounded semaglutide and brand-name drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound. Eligibility requires BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with a qualifying condition). A video consultation is required before prescribing. Noom Med bundles medication with CBT coaching, app access, and clinician check-ins.
Is Noom GLP-1 safe?
When used as directed under medical supervision, GLP-1 medications through Noom Med follow standard medical guidelines. Noom requires video consultation with a licensed clinician, comprehensive health history review, and ongoing clinical oversight. As with any prescription medication, side effects and contraindications apply; discuss with the prescribing clinician.
What states does Noom Med operate in?
Compounded GLP-1 medications are not available in Alabama, Louisiana, or Mississippi. Telehealth medication is limited or prohibited in Virginia. State availability varies by medication type (compounded vs brand-name); verify availability for your state and specific medication before enrolling.
What was the Noom class action settlement?
In February 2022, Noom agreed to pay $56 million cash plus $6 million in subscription credits (combined $62 million) to settle a class action in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The class action alleged dark pattern auto-renewal practices affecting approximately 2 million users, with charges ranging from $45 to $400 without clear consent. The settlement received final court approval in July 2022 and required Noom to enhance auto-renewal disclosures, require separate affirmative consent for auto-renewal, and provide easier cancellation options. The required business practice changes applied for 2 years.
Was Noom investigated by the FTC?
Yes. The Federal Trade Commission investigated Noom in 2021 over allegations of unsubstantiated weight-loss advertising claims. The matter was settled. The investigation is part of broader FTC enforcement activity targeting weight-loss product marketing across the industry.
Is Noom covered by insurance?
The standard Noom Weight Loss subscription is generally not covered by insurance. For Noom Med, the membership fee is typically paid out-of-pocket, but the Noom care team assists with insurance prior authorization for brand-name GLP-1 medications. HSA/FSA accounts can be used for all treatment plans.
What is the BBB rating of Noom?
Noom, Inc. holds a BBB A+ rating and is BBB Accredited Business since October 19, 2021. BBB profile shows 1.08/5 customer review score across 370 reviews, 693 total complaints last 3 years, 126 complaints closed last 12 months, and a special BBB alert: “Please be advised that due to the high volume of complaints received for this business, BBB publishes 1 out of every 5 complaints handled through our conciliation process.” BBB File opened November 17, 2014. 17 years in business per BBB. Headquartered in New York, NY.