Losing weight just got easier—and it might save you money too!
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In a world where convenience is king, the allure of getting what you want now and paying for it later is hard to resist.
The “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) phenomenon has swept through the marketplace, offering a flexible payment alternative to traditional credit.
From splurging on the latest tech gadgets to snagging that must-have pair of shoes, BNPL has made its mark.
But the latest twist? This trend is now expanding into new territories: weight loss drugs and food delivery services like DoorDash. Is this a recipe for financial fitness or fiscal folly?
The BNPL model isn't just for big-ticket items anymore. According to Mizuho analyst Dan Dolev, as quoted by USA TODAY, this model can apply to “pretty much every aspect of consumption.”
Indeed, the BNPL space has seen explosive growth, with a 2025 report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau indicating that roughly 21% of consumers with a credit record were using BNPL services in 2022, up from 17.6% the previous year.
Stanford Graduate School of Business professor Ed deHaan doesn't see this growth slowing down, and it's easy to see why.
BNPL offers zero-interest loans repaid in installments, making it an attractive option for consumers, especially those with limited access to traditional credit cards.
The New Frontier: Weight Loss and Food Delivery
As BNPL ventures into the realms of weight loss drugs and food delivery, it's worth asking: is it wise to finance your fitness or your next meal?
The idea of splitting the cost of your DoorDash order into four payments might seem convenient, but experts urge caution.
The Risks of “Bite Now, Pay Later”
While BNPL can be a valuable tool for managing cash flow, it's not without risks.
A study co-authored by deHaan in 2023 found that BNPL users often face “rapid increases” in bank overdraft charges and credit card interest and fees.
Also read: Living on credit: The tough choices many seniors face today
“Consumers need to understand this new form of payment and make educated decisions,” Preyas Desai, professor at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, said. Users can “stack BNPL on top of each other and get these loans from multiple BNPL providers. So there is some risk that people might be able to get habitualized to use BNPL.”
Moreover, a Harvard working paper from 2022 suggests that BNPL can lead to higher spending and a greater likelihood of dipping into savings.
The temptation to overspend is real, and with BNPL, it's easier than ever to succumb to impulse buys.
The CFPB found that in 2022, 63% of BNPL borrowers had multiple loans simultaneously, and 33% took out loans across multiple firms. This can lead to a tangled web of payment schedules and financial strain.
Experts' Advice on Navigating BNPL
So, how can you enjoy the benefits of BNPL without falling into a debt trap? Here are some tips from the pros:
1. Start slow: Begin with one BNPL transaction and understand how it fits into your budget before taking on more.
2. Choose wisely: Stick to reputable companies with a track record of fair practices.
3. Read the fine print: Know the terms and conditions, including any fees for missed payments.
4. Budget: Keep track of your spending and ensure that any BNPL purchases are within your means.
5. Be selective: Consider using BNPL for necessary items or those that add value over time, rather than fleeting pleasures like a meal delivery.
Source: ABC 33/40 / Youtube.
Klarna, a leading BNPL firm, has partnered with DoorDash, but they've set a minimum purchase amount of $35 and encourage consumers to use their “pay in full” option for meal deliveries.
Read next: Savor now, pay later: DoorDash and Klarna introduce flexible payment for your favorite deliveries
As we navigate the evolving landscape of consumer finance, it's essential to balance the convenience of BNPL with the discipline of responsible spending.
Whether it's investing in your health with weight loss drugs or indulging in the occasional DoorDash feast, the key is to make informed choices that align with your financial goals.
Have you used BNPL services for unconventional purchases? What strategies do you use to keep your spending in check? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
The “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) phenomenon has swept through the marketplace, offering a flexible payment alternative to traditional credit.
From splurging on the latest tech gadgets to snagging that must-have pair of shoes, BNPL has made its mark.
But the latest twist? This trend is now expanding into new territories: weight loss drugs and food delivery services like DoorDash. Is this a recipe for financial fitness or fiscal folly?
The BNPL model isn't just for big-ticket items anymore. According to Mizuho analyst Dan Dolev, as quoted by USA TODAY, this model can apply to “pretty much every aspect of consumption.”
Indeed, the BNPL space has seen explosive growth, with a 2025 report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau indicating that roughly 21% of consumers with a credit record were using BNPL services in 2022, up from 17.6% the previous year.
Stanford Graduate School of Business professor Ed deHaan doesn't see this growth slowing down, and it's easy to see why.
BNPL offers zero-interest loans repaid in installments, making it an attractive option for consumers, especially those with limited access to traditional credit cards.
The “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) model is expanding across various sectors, including food delivery through DoorDash. Image source: ABC 33 / 40 / Youtube.
The New Frontier: Weight Loss and Food Delivery
As BNPL ventures into the realms of weight loss drugs and food delivery, it's worth asking: is it wise to finance your fitness or your next meal?
The idea of splitting the cost of your DoorDash order into four payments might seem convenient, but experts urge caution.
The Risks of “Bite Now, Pay Later”
While BNPL can be a valuable tool for managing cash flow, it's not without risks.
A study co-authored by deHaan in 2023 found that BNPL users often face “rapid increases” in bank overdraft charges and credit card interest and fees.
Also read: Living on credit: The tough choices many seniors face today
“Consumers need to understand this new form of payment and make educated decisions,” Preyas Desai, professor at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, said. Users can “stack BNPL on top of each other and get these loans from multiple BNPL providers. So there is some risk that people might be able to get habitualized to use BNPL.”
Moreover, a Harvard working paper from 2022 suggests that BNPL can lead to higher spending and a greater likelihood of dipping into savings.
The temptation to overspend is real, and with BNPL, it's easier than ever to succumb to impulse buys.
The CFPB found that in 2022, 63% of BNPL borrowers had multiple loans simultaneously, and 33% took out loans across multiple firms. This can lead to a tangled web of payment schedules and financial strain.
Experts' Advice on Navigating BNPL
So, how can you enjoy the benefits of BNPL without falling into a debt trap? Here are some tips from the pros:
1. Start slow: Begin with one BNPL transaction and understand how it fits into your budget before taking on more.
2. Choose wisely: Stick to reputable companies with a track record of fair practices.
3. Read the fine print: Know the terms and conditions, including any fees for missed payments.
4. Budget: Keep track of your spending and ensure that any BNPL purchases are within your means.
5. Be selective: Consider using BNPL for necessary items or those that add value over time, rather than fleeting pleasures like a meal delivery.
Source: ABC 33/40 / Youtube.
Klarna, a leading BNPL firm, has partnered with DoorDash, but they've set a minimum purchase amount of $35 and encourage consumers to use their “pay in full” option for meal deliveries.
Read next: Savor now, pay later: DoorDash and Klarna introduce flexible payment for your favorite deliveries
As we navigate the evolving landscape of consumer finance, it's essential to balance the convenience of BNPL with the discipline of responsible spending.
Whether it's investing in your health with weight loss drugs or indulging in the occasional DoorDash feast, the key is to make informed choices that align with your financial goals.
Have you used BNPL services for unconventional purchases? What strategies do you use to keep your spending in check? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
