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What is Optavia?
By itself, the Optavia diet is a low-calorie meal plan service that may induce weight loss. It involves eating the Optavia fuelings and pre-prepared meals that the company preps for its clients and ships to their doorstep.
In addition to these meals, individuals on this diet take Optavia lean and green meals. These consist of 5 to 7 oz protein plus three servings of green veggies.
The Optimal Weight 5 & 1 Plan ® is the company’s major weight loss plan, and it entails eating Optavia fuelings for your five daily meals. The manufacturer claims that the foods are delicious, convenient, nutritious, and scientifically designed to ease the body into a fat-burning state.
The fuelings are full of high-quality protein and probiotic cultures which, according to a study in Micronutrients by Mon-Chien Lee, et al may help the body retain lean muscle mass and improve digestive health respectively [1].
Other Optavia plans include the 4 & 2 & 1 plan and the 3 & 3 plan. The 4 & 2 & 1 consists of 4 fuelings, 2 lean and green meals, and 1 snack while the 3&3 contains 3 fuelings and 3 lean and green meals only.
How Does It Rate?
NeoraFit
Brand Highlights
- Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen, the program’s co-founder and independent coach developed Optavia.
- Dr. Andersen is also a New York bestselling author and wrote books such as Dr. A’s Habits of Health, Living a Longer Healthier Life, and Discover Your Optimal Health.
- Dieticians, physicians, and scientists who are part of the Optavia community developed the Optavia plans and diets
- Once users join the community, they have access to resources such as client-focused groups, video conferences, nutritional support, and online help.
Key Ingredients
- Whey Protein
- Pea Protein
- Fiber
- Inulin
Pros
- The programs may promote steady weight loss
- Optavia could help with weight maintenance.
- It might teach healthy eating habits
- The programs may provide users with long-term support for their health.
- The Optavia diet could improve overall wellbeing
Cons
- This diet has food restrictions such as cakes, cookies, and sugar-sweetened beverages
- The diet may be difficult for some users to sustain.
- Due to low calorie intake, users may feel hungry and fatigued.
- The fuelings include some processed foods.
About the Brand
The manufacturer is Optavia, a weight loss company which has its headquarters in Baltimore, Maryland. Founded in 1990, their mandate is to develop healthy, nutritional diet solutions and offer accompanying food products.
How Does Optavia Work?
Optavia food consists of meals that are low on carbs, high in protein, and contain some probiotic cultures. With reduced carb and overall calorie intake, the body can focus on burning fat for energy. As for the high-quality protein, it helps the body retain lean muscle mass.
For extra support, the diet consists of Optavia lean and green recipes which provide the body with added protein and fiber for better digestion and nutrient absorption. Both the fiber and protein also help to suppress appetite by filling up the gut.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition by Derek C Miketinas, et al found that regular intake of fiber promotes weight loss and adherence in overweight subjects on a low calorie diet [2].
The probiotics support a balanced microbiome and could promote regular bowel movements and decrease issues like diarrhea, gas, and bloating. They could also help with weight loss, according to a review published in Nutrients by Valentina Álvarez-Arraño and Sandra Martín-Peláez [3].
The diets have plenty of foods with anti-inflammatory agents which decrease swelling. They also have free radical abolishing antioxidants that lower oxidative stress, as we explained in our review of Slimming Gummies.
This promotes bodily healing, helps boost overall health, and strengthens the immune system. An article in the Journal of Physics Conference Series by R M Khadim and F S Al-Fartusie discussed the impact of antioxidant vitamins on the immune system [4].
Optavia Ingredients – Are they Safe & Effective?
Some of the ingredients in the Optavia food include:
Whey Protein
Derived from dairy products, this protein contains essential amino acids that perform vital functions in the body. It helps provide the muscles with protein, building mass and strength. It may also fill up the gut and suppress appetite, and lower cholesterol levels.
A randomized double-blinded trial published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by Louise Kjølbæk, et al found that high-protein diets increased weight loss. However, protein supplementation did not promote weight maintenance as expected [5].
Pea Protein
This protein comes from yellow peas and is premium quality and easily digestible. It is rich in arginine and iron, and as we mentioned in our review of Organifi, it has all 9 essential amino acids. Pea protein may suppress appetite for weight loss, help build muscle mass and strength, and boost heart health.
An 8-week comparative study in the Sports Journal by Amy Banaszek and Jeremy R. Townsend et al examined the effect of whey protein and pea protein on physiological adaptation.
The study found that both proteins have a similar impact on body composition, muscle thickness, force production, strength, and daily workout [6].
Soy Protein
Sourced from soybeans, soy is a complete protein that is full of essential amino acids, and it may help suppress hunger for weight loss. Soy protein is a plant-based protein that contains isoflavones that are beneficial to human health, and could also help women in menopause by raising estrogen levels to decrease symptoms like hot flashes.
According to nutritional intervention studies in the International Journal of Medical Sciences by Manuel T. Velasquez and Sam J. Bhathena, consumption of soy protein reduced body weight and fat mass. It also lowered plasma cholesterol and triglycerides [7].
Fiber
This is a type of carbohydrate that the body does not digest. It helps the body regulate blood sugar and hunger, and it may cleanse the colon to promote healthy bowel movements and improved digestion. Fiber also suppresses hunger for a lower daily calorie count.
One study in the Nutrients Journal by Manuel T. Velasquez and Sam J. Bhathena, et al claimed that fiber supplementation could contribute to weight loss. According to the research, the mechanism of action is a reduction in appetite [8].
Inulin
This is a form of prebiotic that the stomach does not digest or absorb. It helps to increase the growth of gut microbiota by feeding healthy probiotics in the gut so they kill harmful microbes. This may promote regular bowel movements, ease issues like gas and bloating, and suppress hunger and cravings.
A randomized controlled trial in the Nutrition & Metabolism journal by Nicola D. Guess, Anne Dornhorst, et al discovered that fermentable carbohydrate inulin promoted weight loss and reduced ectopic fat in diabetics [9].
Optavia – FAQ’s
Q: How Much Does Optavia Cost?
A: On the official website, Optavia meals cost:
- Optavia Essential Optimal Kit (5&1 plan) – $395.25
- Optavia Essential Optimal Kit (4&2&1 plan) – $442
- Optavia Essential on the Go Kit – $395.25
There are a wide range of fuelings which cost $23.25 each with 7 items per package. The company may sometimes offer an Optavia promo code on the official website after signing up and getting an Optavia.com login.
Q: Is Optavia Safe?
A: Going by the Optavia fueling substitutes provided with the meals, the Optavia diet is safe. However, this diet is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans since the fuelings contain animal products.
Q: Is this product available on multiple sites?
A: This product is available on Amazon and Walmart. Be sure to check the pricing on both, as it may differ.
Q: How Can You Lose Weight Faster on Optavia?
A: To lose weight fastest, follow the 5&1 plan which limits calories to 800-1000 calories daily.
Q: Is Optavia an MLM?
A: Yes, Optavia is an MLM (multi-level-marketing) that sells weight loss products such as meal replacements, snacks, and shakes. They suggest that users who have completed the program become coaches and inspire others to join the community.
Q: Is Optavia Keto?
A: No, while Optavia recipes are low in carbs, the carb content is not low enough to be suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Q: What Vegetables Can You Eat on Optavia?
A: According to the Optavia lean and green recipes pdf, users on this diet can consume vegetables such as lettuce, celery, cucumbers, greens, and more
Q: What is the Optavia Diet?
A: This is a weight loss diet that is low on calories and carbs. Users on this diet are subjected to portion-controlled meals and snacks.
Q: Does Optavia Really Work?
A: Yes, Optavia may work as it is a wholesome approach to weight loss and overall wellbeing and it advocates cutting total calorie count
Q: How are the Optavia Reviews?
A: The Optavia diet reviews were varied as some customers felt that it worked for them while others did not get the expected results. Most Optavia complaints revolved around poor Optavia customer service. According to customers, the company does not deliver orders on time.
Other users in the Optavia reviews mentioned that they incurred charges for products they had not ordered. These are a few of the mixed Optavia reviews, to give you an idea of the feedback:
OPTAVIA Disappointment
OPTAVIA is a program that sells expensive snacks ($22 for 7 items). You consume 5 snacks a day then eat a meat and a green meal. It could be good, and I am sure it has worked for some. They are always out of stock on items and delivery could take up to 3 weeks.
Huge supply chain failure and they tell you to order other snacks, and of course, the snacks that are available are gross. Coaches aren’t helpful, they just tell you to read a book and drink a lot of water. The customer service is useless. – Lin, reviewer on Trustpilot
Positive Thoughts!
I’m sorry that these reviewers had poor experiences! I started the program about 9 weeks ago and have lost 35 pounds. I have had nothing but positive interactions with my coach, and the reading material is outstanding.
The food is good and there are many, many choices. My wife and I are doing it together and she is down nearly 28 pounds! The material I’m studying is great! Most of it will carry over to life in general, not just food intake. I’ve enjoyed it very much so far! – Brian B, reviewer on Trustpilot
Didn’t Work For Me
I didn’t like the food and found it expensive, so I hesitated to order it. Then the diet was hard to follow, and the support wasn’t nearly what they said it would be. The advice from the coaches was mostly just common sense, nothing spectacular. Not worth it. – Poe B.
Q: How Should You Take Optavia?
A: Depending on the meal plant that you opt for, you will eat fuelings to replace your regular meals. If you are on the optimal health 3 & 3 plan, for instance, you will eat 3 servings of fuelings plus 3 servings of lean and greens daily.
Q: What is Optavia’s Return Policy?
A: If unsatisfied with the Optavia lean and green meals you purchased, you can return them within 30 days of the purchase date.
Q: Does Optavia Offer a Free Trial?
A: There are no free trials for this product. However, you can get 5 free boxes of fuelings if you sign up for the Optavia Premier Membership. You can also get a free gift if you purchase 20 or more boxes of fuelings.
Q: What Sets It Apart From the Competition?
A: There’s nothing overly unique about the diet plans or the foods they suggest, and the idea of having a calorie deficit for weight loss. In addition the foods are expensive for the market, and not as healthy as some other brands offer.
Alternatives to Optavia
Optavia Review – Final Verdict
Optavia is a fully-fledged weight loss system that addresses key areas such as eating and hydration, weight, motion, and sleep. It consists of an Optavia diet plan with carbs, calories, and proteins in controlled portions.
THE TRUTH ABOUT OPTAVIA | Dietitian Reviews Optavia, Optavia Lean & Green Meals, Optavia Fuelings (Video Credit: YouTube)
While this weight loss program may work, this few calories goes against health and nutrition guidelines (10). Due to this extreme calorie restriction, users may experience brain fog, headaches, fatigue, and menstrual changes. Some users may also develop allergic reactions to ingredients in Optavia meals and Optavia condiments.
People on medication should not sign up for this program without medical approval. Once you sign up, you will receive your personalized Optavia connect login details to allow you to interact with the coaches and community.
To take a glimpse of what to expect, check out the Optavia before and after success stories on the website. Below you’ll find some of the most effective weight loss supplements on the market today, in our opinion
Below you'll find some of the most effective weight loss supplements on the market today, in our opinion.
Verdict on Claimed Benefits: Below is our summary of the available evidence for the claimed benefits of below mentioned diet pills and weight loss supplements based on the available research:
Product reviews are provided for informational purposes only and reflect solely the views and opinions expressed by the contributors and not those of Consumer Health Digest. We do not verify or endorse any claims made in these reviews. Please read the full product reviews disclaimer. *All individuals are unique. Your results can and will vary.
3 Customer Reviews for Optavia
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10 Sources
We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.
[1] Fiber Intake Predicts Weight Loss and Dietary Adherence in Adults Consuming Calorie-Restricted Diets: The POUNDS Lost (Preventing Overweight Using Novel Dietary Strategies) Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31174214/[2] Effects of Probiotics and Synbiotics on Weight Loss in Subjects with Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8540110/
[3] Antioxidant Vitamins And Their Effect On Immune System: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1742-6596/1853/1/012065
[4] Lactobacillus Plantarum TWK10 Improves Muscle Mass And Functional Performance In Frail Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC8305125/
[5] Protein Supplements After Weight Loss Do Not Improve Weight Maintenance Compared With Recommended Dietary Protein Intake Despite Beneficial Effects On Appetite Sensation And Energy Expenditure: A Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blinded Trial: https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/106/2/684/4557613
[6] The Effects Of Whey Vs Pea Protein On Physical Adaptations Following 8-Weeks Of High-Intensity Functional Training (HIFT): A Pilot Study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6358922/
[7] Role Of Dietary Soy Protein In Obesity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1838825/
[8] Effect Of Fibre Supplementation On Body Weight And Composition, Frequency Of Eating And Dietary Choice In Overweight individuals: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5331580/
[9] A Randomized Controlled Trial: The Effect Of Inulin On Weight Management And Ectopic Fat In Subjects With Prediabetes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4619305/
[10] The Evolution of Very-Low-Calorie Diets: An Update and Meta-analysis: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1038/oby.2006.146
**This is a subjective assessment based on the strength of the available informations and our estimation of efficacy.
*Result may vary. If you are pregnant, nursing, have a serious medical condition, or have a history of heart conditions we suggest consulting with a physician before using any supplement. The information contained in this website is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should not be relied upon as a medical advice. Always consult your doctor before using any supplements.
Disclosure of Material connection: Some of the links in the post above are "associate sales links." This means if you can click on the link and purchase an item, we will receive a commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services which we use personally and/or believe will add value to our readers. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials."
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MJ
I have learned to eat for nourishment, not just for pleasure all the time, and to stop when I am full. The increased water intake has helped me tremendously. I enjoy eating something small, like “bars,” every 3 hours, which keeps me full until my green, lean meal, which I normally have around noon. I don’t follow the diet to the letter since I’ve lost the weight. I find that clean eating with raw vegetables and consuming more fish rather than red meats has helped me tremendously. I exercise by lifting weights or playing pickleball weekly. The combination of an active lifestyle and eating for nourishment, rather than for pleasure, has made it happen.
This does not mean I don’t eat for pleasure sometimes, but most of the time, I stick to eating for nourishment in my daily choices and practice portion control. It has helped me to stop eating when I get that signal that says, “I am full,” which we often ignore because the plate still has food or it tastes so good. It has also helped me consume less junk food and more protein-based meals. Overall, it has helped me get started on a healthier lifestyle with boundaries and structure, which I needed. I also love the structured approach and not having to worry about what to eat. I appreciate the convenience of a bar to fuel me, especially with my line of work at a hospital, treating patients back to back. It may not work for everyone, but it has certainly helped me!
Shirley Tilney
Everything they sent me was out of date. Most are from 2022 but a couple are from 2021. When checking some items from my last order were not eaten because I was out of town. They were all out of date.
When I called Optavia to complain about the out-of-date food I was told all they could do was send me 3 free boxes. I have 15 boxes of out-of-date food in my pantry and they think 3 more for free will do the job. There is n go back offer of sending it back or replacing it. So much for the false 30-day money-back or exchange policy. There actually is none.
I have spent an average of $400 a month for 3 years and it wasn’t for out-of-date food. I immediately canceled my membership and will never go back.
Christine
I asked about a money back guarantee- she told me I would get my money back. Outright lie. There is NO 100% money back. You don’t even get all your money back when you return the product. For example, if the full price of a product is $22.00, returned I got $17.00.
The books are nonrefundable.
After I cancelled my membership and started the return process my coach stopped responding to messages. I assume because she knew I would find out the truth as to how this company works.
Did it work for me?
If that includes painful hunger, the body is reduced to starvation mode burping up bright yellow stomach acid, stomach-churning that could be heard across the room, bloating, gas, diarrhea..headaches from being hungry. Fatigue from being overly hungry. If that works for you, then it works. It did not work for me.
More disturbing was the money, dishonesty, and complete disregard for how sick I was. The company didn’t give a hoot about me or the fact that their product made me feel terrible. They clearly want nothing to do with anyone who has side effects. They just want your money!
So! NO SUCH THING AS 100% MONEY BACK! I have all the emails to prove it.
Other reviews explain the company continues to take money after you’ve cancelled your membership.
I tried to delete my credit card information from my account, but I could not!
Had to call my bank and have them make sure the company was not able to, and the coach was not able to continue to make money.