signos Raises $13M Series A for Personalized Weight Loss

Beyond the Scale: Signos and the Future of Personalized Weight Management

In an era defined by meticulous self-tracking, relying solely on weekly weigh-ins offers an incomplete picture of bodily function. Even frequent measurements provide only retrospective data – reflecting past states rather than predicting future trends. A more insightful indicator is blood sugar level, and Signos, a weight-loss startup, is capitalizing on growing interest in metabolic differences with its real-time glucose monitoring and alert system.

Understanding the Science of Glucose and Weight

Consuming a carbohydrate-rich meal, such as oatmeal, invariably causes a rise in blood sugar. Engaging in physical activity like walking or running following a meal helps to lower glucose levels, potentially preventing weight gain.

However, individual responses to food vary significantly based on factors like diet, timing, and personal physiology. Recognizing that each body is unique, Signos proposes that continuous monitoring can empower individuals to make more informed dietary and exercise choices, ultimately supporting weight management.

Funding and Growth

Signos has secured a total of $17 million in funding. This includes a $4 million seed round from Courtside Ventures, 1984 Ventures, and Tau Ventures in January, and a subsequent $13 million Series A round led by GV.

A Personal Journey to Innovation

The company’s CEO, Sharam Fouladgar-Mercer, shares a personal connection to the challenges of weight loss.

“I struggled with being overweight as a child and into my teens. Through sports, I achieved a good level of fitness and even received offers to play professional hockey,” Fouladgar-Mercer explained. “However, after my athletic career, I regained weight. I began searching for guidance, but found the standard advice – like a fixed daily calorie intake – didn’t account for individual metabolic differences.”

He continued, “A family member’s diagnosis with diabetes and their use of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sparked an idea: could we leverage CGM technology to understand how metabolism impacts weight loss?”

The Signos Platform: Personalized Insights

Signos aims to provide visibility into each individual’s unique metabolic needs. The platform moves beyond generic advice like calorie restriction or macro counting, offering tailored plans based on real-time data.

“We help people discover effective dietary strategies in days or weeks, refining them over time for optimal weight management and overall health,” Fouladgar-Mercer stated. “We accelerate the process of trial and error that elite athletes and dedicated dieters often endure.”

Leveraging Dexcom Technology

The Signos platform utilizes Dexcom’s G6 continuous glucose monitoring devices, traditionally used by individuals with diabetes. Dexcom has also invested in Signos, becoming a strategic partner.

Alongside the hardware, Signos has developed an AI-powered app that delivers real-time data and personalized recommendations to promote sustained weight loss. Users initially log their food intake, allowing the platform to learn their body’s response to different foods.

How the System Works

The device is worn continuously for ten days, even during activities like showering and exercise, providing a constant stream of glucose data. After the ten-day period, the device is replaced.

Fouladgar-Mercer acknowledges the device isn’t currently recyclable or reusable, due to its classification as a medical device requiring specific disposal protocols.

Accessibility and Prescription Requirements

Obtaining a continuous glucose monitor requires a doctor’s prescription and fulfillment through a pharmacy. Signos streamlines this process for users.

“We handle the behind-the-scenes operations, guiding you through the process from initial consultation to pharmacy fulfillment,” Fouladgar-Mercer explained. “Once approved, the device is shipped directly to you, along with access to our software.”

The Power of Real-Time Feedback

The system’s value lies in its near-real-time monitoring and alert system. Knowing your blood sugar spiked hours later is less effective than receiving immediate feedback to adjust your behavior.

“This continuous feedback loop over time leads to better results for our members, helping them achieve their health goals,” Fouladgar-Mercer asserted.

Looking Ahead

Signos reports a waitlist of over 100,000 potential customers. The recent funding will facilitate product availability across the U.S. throughout 2022.