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Weight Loss Programmes

Juniper vs Second Nature

Robbie Puddick (RNutr)
Written by

Robbie Puddick (RNutr)

Content and SEO Lead

Medically reviewed by

Dr Rachel Hall (MBCHB)

Principal Doctor

6 min read
Published on 13th May 2025
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Jump to: Key Differences | NHS Partnership & Clinical Evidence | Programme Structure | Support & Coaching | Cost Comparison | Take Home Message

When choosing between Juniper and Second Nature for medication-supported weight loss, the most important difference is clinical credibility.

Second Nature has been delivering NHS-commissioned weight-loss services since 2017, with seven years of published clinical outcomes supporting its effectiveness.

In contrast, Juniper is relatively new to the UK market, originating as an Australian sub-brand without NHS partnerships or published clinical data.

Both programmes offer weight-loss injections like Mounjaro alongside digital habit-change support, but Second Nature’s longer track record provides greater peace of mind for patients seeking a clinically-proven approach to sustainable weight loss.

Second Nature also offers a weight-loss programme without medication, and you can find more about this programme here.

Medication-assisted weight loss with a future focus

Start with Mounjaro, transition to habit-based health with our support

Mounjaro pen

Key differences between Juniper and Second Nature

Feature Second Nature Juniper
NHS Partnership NHS-commissioned since 2017, used by over half of UK Health Boards No NHS partnerships
Clinical Evidence Multiple peer-reviewed publications with proven outcomes No published programme-specific clinical data
Coaching UK-registered dietitians and nutritionists with GLP-1 expertise Nutritionist support via app
Programme Options Both medication-supported and non-medication programmes Medication-focused programmes only
Pricing Model Flat-fee with loyalty bonuses that reduce cost over time Variable pricing based on medication dose
Trustpilot Rating 4.6/5 from 7,000+ reviews 4.5/5 from 4,000+ reviews

NHS partnership & clinical evidence

Second Nature’s relationship with the NHS sets it apart as the most clinically trusted medication-supported weight loss programme in the UK.

Since 2017, the NHS has commissioned Second Nature to deliver weight loss and type 2 diabetes programmes across the UK, with over half of all UK NHS Health and Care boards using Second Nature services.

This NHS partnership ensures robust clinical oversight, data security, and evidence-based approaches.

Our published clinical results show impressive outcomes across both our medication and non-medication programmes:

  • For our non-medication programmes:
    • Participants lost an average of 5.9kg at 12 weeks
    • 62.5% achieved at least 5% weight loss by 3 months
    • 40% of type 2 diabetes patients reduced HbA1c below diagnostic thresholds
  • For our medication-supported programme, as published in the JMIR Formative Research journal:
    • Participants achieved a remarkable 17.3% weight loss (18.1kg on average) at 12 months
    • Those who maintained an active subscription lost an average of 19.1% of their starting weight (20kg)
    • 77.7% of participants achieved ≥10% weight loss
    • 61.5% achieved ≥15% weight loss
    • Side effects decreased over time, with 69.6% reporting none by month 12

In contrast, Juniper doesn’t currently have published clinical data in medical journals demonstrating the effectiveness of their programme.

While they reference clinical trials of the medications themselves, there are no independent studies evaluating Juniper’s specific approach or outcomes.

Second Nature offers reassurance of NHS validation and peer-reviewed evidence for patients concerned about safety and effectiveness.

Programme structure

Both Second Nature and Juniper offer medication-supported weight loss programmes with digital support components, but there are important structural differences to consider.

Second Nature’s approach

Second Nature’s programme is built on a foundation of behavioural science, developed through years of NHS collaboration. Our approach:

  • Focuses on building sustainable habits alongside medication support
  • Uses a non-restrictive nutrition philosophy that doesn’t require calorie counting
  • Provides structured educational content based on clinical evidence
  • Includes a comprehensive app with food journals, recipes, and progress tracking
  • Offers both medication-supported and non-medication options

Juniper’s approach

Juniper positions itself as a medication-first solution, with:

  • Primary emphasis on GLP-1/GIP medications as the driver of results
  • Supporting nutrition and lifestyle content via their app
  • Focus on higher-protein approaches while on medication
  • No medication-free programme option

A key difference is Second Nature’s emphasis on habit formation from day one, preparing you for sustainable results even after medication use ends.

Support & coaching

When taking weight-loss medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy, having the right support can make all the difference in managing side effects and achieving lasting results.

Health coach expertise

Second Nature provides access to UK-registered dietitians and nutritionists who specialise in supporting our members on weight-loss injections.

Our health coaches receive specific training in side effect management, ensuring you receive personalised guidance through any challenges.

Plus, we have an in-house team of behavioural psychologists who train our health coaches on behaviour change science and coaching techniques.

Juniper also offers nutritionist support, but Second Nature’s longer track record means our coaches have more extensive experience specifically with medication-supported weight loss.

Side effect management

Managing medication side effects is a common concern. Second Nature’s approach includes:

  • Proactive dietary strategies to minimise nausea
  • Specific nutrition guidance designed to work with GLP-1 medications
  • Regular check-ins focused on symptom management

Community support

Second Nature places you in a small group with others on similar journeys, creating a supportive community where you can share experiences and strategies. This community aspect provides emotional support that’s crucial for long-term success.

Juniper offers app-based community features, but lacks the structured small-group approach that many Second Nature members find invaluable.

Long-term success planning

Second Nature’s programme is designed with post-medication life in mind:

  • Focus on sustainable habit formation from day one
  • Personalised transition plans for maintaining results after medication
  • Ongoing access to support resources even after completing the programme
  • Community support from others at similar stages

Cost & Trustpilot reviews

Cost

Feature Second Nature Juniper
Pricing Model Flat-fee with loyalty bonus Variable pricing based on medication dose
First Month £129 (£110 off) Starting at £189-£209 (final costs unclear)
Ongoing Monthly Cost £239 with quarterly loyalty discounts:

  • Months 2-3: £239
  • Months 4-6: £229
  • Months 7-9: £219
  • Months 10-12: £209
  • Month 13+: £199
Increases with higher doses (final costs unclear as higher doses aren’t published)
Cancellation Policy Cancel anytime, no additional charge Unclear cancellation terms

While Juniper’s initial prices may appear lower, Second Nature’s transparent loyalty-based pricing model rewards your commitment to long-term health. Our flat-fee structure means no surprises as your medication dose changes, and our loyalty bonuses mean you’ll pay less the longer you stay with us.

Our programme includes all aspects of medication management, plus extensive habit-change resources developed over seven years of NHS partnership.

Take home message

Weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy can be transformative when paired with the right support programme. They help silence food-related thoughts and provide the mental space to develop sustainable habits for long-term success.

Why patients choose Second Nature over Juniper:

  1. Clinical confidence: The only medication programme with an NHS partnership and published clinical outcomes
  2. Experienced support: UK-registered dietitians with extensive medication management expertise
  3. Proven results: Transparent outcomes data with thousands of successful patients
  4. Post-medication planning: Comprehensive strategies for maintaining results long-term
  5. Transparent pricing: Flat-fee structure with loyalty bonuses that reward long-term commitment
  6. Patient satisfaction: Higher ratings across significantly more independent reviews

While both programmes offer medication access, Second Nature provides the peace of mind that comes from choosing the most clinically trusted option in the UK.

The ultimate goal is to make losing weight feel second nature; something that becomes part of who you are, not just something you do temporarily.

Ready to start your journey with the UK’s most trusted medication-supported weight loss programme?

Take the eligibility quiz now →

Second Nature's Mounjaro programme

Second Nature provides Mounjaro as part of our Mounjaro weight-loss programme

Why choose Second Nature over other medication providers, assuming you’re eligible?

Because peace of mind matters.

We’ve had the privilege of working with the NHS for over eight years, helping people across the UK take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier life.

Our programmes are designed to meet people where they are, whether that means support with weight loss through compassionate one-to-one health coaching, or access to the latest weight-loss medications (like Mounjaro) delivered alongside expert care from a multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists, dietitians, and personal trainers.

At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: real, lasting change comes from building better habits, not relying on quick fixes. We’re here to support that change every step of the way.

With over a decade of experience, thousands of lives changed, and a long-standing record of delivering programmes used by the NHS, we believe we're the UK’s most trusted weight-loss programme.

We hope to offer you something invaluable: peace of mind, and the support you need to take that first step.

Medication-assisted weight loss with a future focus

Start with Mounjaro, transition to habit-based health with our support

Mounjaro pen

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Make losing weight feel Second Nature

The first step on your Second Nature journey is to take our health quiz.

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Write a response

Sarah

22 October, 2024

This article was very very informative indeed and am now confident on which company is worth the try due to the fact that the NHS has given the go ahead. Thank you again for putting this information together.


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