OPTAVIA 1 YEAR LATER: Weight Loss Program Take Shape for Life Review

About a year ago I embarked on a weight loss journey with Optavia and Take Shape For Life. I lost nearly 40 pounds in 3 months, but what do I think 1 year later? Here is my review of the Optavia Take Shape for Life weight loss program. Does it work? Is Optavia affordable? Did I keep the weight off? I discuss all this and more.
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#optavia #takeshapeforlife #weightlossprogramreview #beautifullybookishbethany Optavia bad reviews

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

It has come to my attention that there has been some harassing behavior in the comments of this video recently. Please keep the comments kind and respectful! This video is about my personal experience with the Optavia program and I hope it is a helpful piece of information to take into consideration, but mine is certainly not the only perspective. You are free to disagree but it is not okay to engage in bullying, harassment, or unkind interactions. If I see that I will block the offending user. And if you notice it, please feel free to comment on this comment and tag me so that I can handle it. Thank you for keeping this a safe space!

[@rachellehouse2899]

This is not an accurate review. Most people spend $15-20 a day on food. Eating out, grabbing snacks at convenience stores or vending machines, soda, cafeteria. The cost of Optavia for the program that was reviewed (there are several others based on your current health) is $15 a day. I did the program 3 years ago, lost 95 pounds and have kept it off, because I engaged in the whole program. It's not a diet, there is no such thing as maintenance. You are either improving your health or declining. There are 4 components and if you only eat the food and treat it like a diet, you have a 25% chance of being successful.

[@chriss1757]

Ok, I'm on it. I've lost 45 pounds in 3 months. It works. But.... You are correct in that it is expensive and not sustainable if you are not a person who can live forever off bars or shakes. My wife is a coach, so I can't exactly bad mouth it, but I can tell you some of what I have found. Optavia is a low-carb, low calorie diet at its core. The five "fuelings" are about 110 calories each, and the "lean and green" is about 300. That's around 850 calories a day. There is no adjustment for men or due to start weight, so large people and men lose very quickly compared to people wanting to lose just a few pounds. Essentially, if you can find a well balanced protein bar that matches pretty close the nutritional info on an Optavia fueling, you can do the diet on your own. A few things I have noticesd on the diet; a lot of the things you are not supposed to eat are in their products, and the "green" doesn't apply to their prepacked meals. Read the label on that Optavis fueling. You will find carbs and sugar, 4 grams in a lot of them, sometimes more. Get one of their Flavors of Home meals, its tiny! Now this is supposed to replace a lean and green, a meal that is usually 6-7 oz of chicken or fish and cups of salad greens. The meal is 10 oz. While there are a lot of vegetables on the ingredients, they are processed and there is nowhere near the volume they call for in a lean and green. Also, the meat is processed and not quite 5 oz. My point being, they have trouble practicing what they preach. If you are doing it, I have this advice for eating out, do the best you can, you will be a lot happier. avoid pasta and potatoes, ask for no bread, and stick to unsauced grilled or baked lean meats like chicken, salmon or sirloin steak, and get veggies and a salad with no croutons. I personally don't stress about the salad having cheese or onions and get my dressing on the side. It may not be perfect, but it won't destroy your diet and you can relax a lot more while eating.

[@jgkrus]

I started 2 weeks ago and down 12 pound. I think its good for the short term but longevity i don't think so..I agree with you 💯. ... I do wish they take in account for men.. I follow the plan but I get hungry often and I drink 3 32 oz bottle of water everyday. If you workout in some fashion everyday the calories is too low for what you're doing. The soy bothers me alotvas in gas and bloded.. My Dr. is not a fan of soy. I'm Learning more and more about how I eat. Its about choices... Look I am going to eat ice cream when I get to my weight which this keeps up it will be by March. Now do I need 3 scoops or one.. if I eat a donut do I need 4 or just one... Its about choices and portions control. Iam looking as comparisons on the bars and shakes to that of Optaiva. If you look around you can find a lot of variety out there. Like I said I comes down to moderation, portion control and what you are eating..

[@angb9912]

What bars have you found that match theirs?

[@rgama78]

I'm on it to eat healthier, not lose any weight (actually trying to add mass). I think having a "coach" tailor the program to your needs would have helped you. I'm on a 4 (bars/shakes) and 2 lean and green meals (without strict calorie restrictions) so my lean and greens can be larger portions than people trying to lose weight. Sometimes I'll even double up on a bar/shake if I did a big workout. The point is that once you understand how to eat healthier you can tailor this program to your specific needs.

[@jondavis8545]

It is all so simple…calories in vs calories out…THATS IT! That is the key to weight loss and management…people on this diet are starving themselves so of course you’re gonna lose weight…when you’re used to eating 3-4000 cals/ day and suddenly drop to 800-1000…yeah you can’t help but lose weight…but losing this much this quick is not healthy…all you need to do to lose weight is consumer fewer calories than you burn in a day…simple as that…you can even still eat the same foods you love…pizza, ice cream, whatever…the key is moderation…but if what you’re doing is called a diet, then you’re doomed out the gate…it’s a lifestyle and if you can’t make this be your lifestyle which I don’t know if anyone that’s remotely active can actually live off 800 cals/day for long, then it will fail…just for perspective, a baby requires about 600 cals/day so…

[@krb7694]

Paragraph breaks are a good thing 😌

[@theresajohnson4362]

The program is not meant to be long term. It’s to help you change your eating habits. To kick the sugar cravings. You then must stay in a healthy lifestyle of eating. Optavia is just a vehicle to get you there.

[@dixiech1ck]

But it doesn't do any of this. It's a starvation method.

[@smon8497]

I don’t even think this helps to change eating habits because they’re having you replace meals with bars or shakes or processed food. That’s not a change in eating habits.

[@trich7049]

An honest review. I’ve been on this program for 3 weeks. I’m down almost 14 lbs. it is pricey, however the money we have saved from not eating out is significant not to mention the money for the unhealthy snacks we ate on a daily basis. So those help. I do get hungry but water takes care of it and it’s not bad because I know I’m eating a fueling in less than two hours usually. This works for us because we were already doing the one meal a day and snacking the rest. Now it’s more healthy choices.

[@beastar15]

I really like this review simply because of the honesty. I was questioning how this diet holds up in the long run and appreciate your view. Thank you!

[@ChamberOfHearts]

I just started this diet!! The first week I had the Fourth of July and I ate poorly that day. I had a sub sandwich tacos, pizza, cheesecake, and beer Lol. I still lost 13 pounds that week. I’m now two weeks in and down 17 pounds. Super excited! It is absolutely a short term weight loss program meant to teach you portion control, regular control over your eating habits, and how to make lean meals. As a few stated it’s not meant for life they have transition programs and what not. I honestly don’t know much about all that. I think it’s really similar to keto. I’m going to use it for six months then transition to a healthy diet. I’ve found some amazing lean and green meals like crock pot pizza, veggie taco skillet, Big Mac salad, bacon cheeseburger casserole. My mom kept her weight off I’m hoping I’m just as successful!

[@anniedawson931]

They say it puts one into “fat burning” is that ketosis?

[@ChamberOfHearts]

@@anniedawson931 the program claims it puts you into a mild state of ketosis but that does not really exist lol. You are either in ketosis or your not. It does put you into a fat burning state. The carbs are too high for ketosis. Now that it's been so long if you are considering doing this program I would highly suggest doing wonderslim instead. The food tastes much better and it's much cheaper. I had great success on both.

[@elasullivan5715]

One of my friends has been on it for almost 6 months she is down about 30 lbs and still losing inches . She looks great by the way !!!

[@katie420.kitkatkitten]

If you use the program correctly. After you hit your optimal weight, you go through transition and eventually don’t do the program anymore. It is made to create new habits. And have you live a healthier life style.

[@worlock27]

Optavia is great. The 5+1 is the plan is to lose weight and then you move to the maintenance plan. It's a tool. I agree it's not long term - but take that time to learn and change your eating habits. I lost 55 pounds with Optavia and eventually switched to preparing all my own nutritious/healthy meals to maintain it. I did not gain it back.

[@DaltonJamesM]

On OPTAVIA right now, and definitely like your review and love your honest truth about it

[@biancanunez6076]

This is soooooo helpful 😩😍 I’m looking into optiva for short term forsure!!! So glad you made this video!

[@raemarie8725]

THANK YOU for sharing this!! I have been so “on the fence” about this mainly because of cost and concern over sustainability!! You answered all my questions. Thank you!

[@ericp1625]

I lost 73 lbs on Optavia and was able to sustain it for 2 years. I am now back up exactly where I began. I would say if you plan to stay on this way of eating for the rest of your life, it'll work. If you slide back, or jump off the program, the weight will come back like gangbusters!

[@EmmanuelHoustonTX23]

My wife and I are on this plan and it works . Would it work for everyone ? I don't think so . I was almost 300 lbs and I'm down 30 lbs , but we're using this as a stepping stone . You just have to trust the program and wanting to make a change in life style .

[@anacanjura3934]

I just started and read some negative reviews but your review have me hope

[@sassy4u788]

How long did it take you to lose 30 if you don’t mind me asking?

[@carolmcneil5528]

Coming from someone who was considering this, I really appreciate your candor, (especially for my pocketbook). Best wishes to you in obtaining/sustaining your optimal weight.

[@MrsLoya-er8nl]

FAAABULOUS video! Thank GOD I found this. My friend is having a “phone coaching session “ with me Friday I figured the fees would be astronomical! Thanks so much for the update!

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

So glad this helped!

[@tyquannawalker628]

I just signed up and it wasn’t that bad when you consider I use to buy breakfast and lunch every day. Now I can eat the prepackaged food and then have a salad and chicken breast for dinner. I lost 6 lbs in 2 weeks so far. It teaches you portion control and speeds up your metabolism since you are fueling every 2-3 hours. I use to sit at my desk starving after breakfast. Now I break and fuel. I started at 180lbs now 174 lbs. People waste money on gym memberships they never use and this is working for me.

[@HappierHeadstones]

EXACTLY...everybody ought to calculate every penny that they eat...it's about the same!@@tyquannawalker628

[@RunwrightReads]

I just watched your 5 week update video so it's good to hear your thoughts after 1 year. I am not a fan of "diet foods" but I think it's good to get something to kickstart the weight loss and kudos to you for using it for that.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

Thanks Karen! It was definitely useful for where I was at, but not for me long term.

[@gybx4094]

My Uncle was captured by the Nazi's in WW2 and sent to a forced labor camp. He was forced to work 15 hours per day and the Gestapo fed him a biscuit and broth twice per day. When he was liberated from the Stalag, he was 85 pounds at 6 feet tall. The lesson? Starvation will cause weight loss. Being hungry is not happiness.

[@melissareynolds56]

The comment that was made wasn't dumb his point was valid being hungry isn't happiness especially in those conditions ! I totally got what he was saying. Yes being lean and healthy is definitely happiness not really a reason to be unkind.

[@Fairybongmother]

What makes you think this program keeps people hungry? If it is done properly there is no hunger. It isn't a starvation diet. If one pulls themself out of fat burn by cheating on the program then yes they will be hungry. Getting the books and learning the difference between hunger and boredom or bad eating is key to it being easy to sustain. I am less hungry on this plan than I was eating pasta and crap regularly. It is a commitment. It definitely isn't for everyone.

[@louannschafer7565]

Haven't been hungry on this plan at all. 6 months in and it is the easiest program I have ever done. I enjoy dinner out at least once a week. I travel for work for 2-3 days at least once a month. No issues at all.

[@GladysDark]

LOL

[@SteelerFan1007]

@@louannschafer7565 The majority of the comments most have not mentioned children or family. I read partner/spouse. I have a family with children. For me to spend $400 for a box of fuelings just for me, was simply not doable nor affordable.

[@michellehamilton1586]

Thanks for this honest review.. you are spot on!

[@jmvanzalinge5023]

Thank you, very honest review, exactly what I needed to hear. A coach is trying to get me to sign up even though I told her I have no money to spend on it. I am very low on funds.

[@SteelerFan1007]

I found the coaches to be very pushy and dictative, and even too nosey. The large textbooks that come with the program ~ well I was expected to do homework every day as well. Additionally, I sensed it was a pyramid scheme, because I didn’t feel supported; I felt bullied. My truth.

[@nyag1764]

This is an absolutely excellent review! Very well done! Thank you!

[@stevedragon25]

I like your honesty and we watch peoples videos for their views opinions and review. Thank you for sharing and keep doing it :)

[@zentrino336]

I just started this diet. I agree it was expensive but I live alone. I eat lunch out basically every day at work. I probably eat out for dinner 2 or 3 times a week too, especially on weekends. I counted up last month and I spent all over $400 on meals eating out and that didn't count the groceries I did buy. I don't expect it to be something I do forever but I need to lose over 100 pounds and this seems like something I could do to get me started on that.

[@kickingitwithcrystal6305]

Thank you for sharing. I am considering the plan. How did you do so far? I need to loose about 75lbs myself

[@zentrino336]

@@kickingitwithcrystal6305 I'm just finished week 3 and I've lost 22 pounds. It's challenging to eat out anywhere but I've found the rest pretty easy.

[@susanadotson9526]

@@zentrino336 thats awesome! I just started. has your progress stalled any or are you continuing to see steady weightloss?

[@nursedanig2246]

How is it going? Are you still doing the plan and how much weight did you lose?

[@lorettadailey9992]

No matter how you lose weight if you go right back to how you used to eat you will gain the weight back. If you stop the changes you are making now you will gain it back too. I lost 80 lbs six years ago. It is still gone. But you have to learn about and stay on the maintenance plan. You don't have to eat like that on the maintenance plan.

[@amnika2536]

What is a good maintenance plan?

[@juanrivera6207]

@@amnika2536 Mediterranean Diet, look it up it even has great benefits like lowering your chances of Alzheimer's and heart disease. Its not really a diet either its more like a way of eating.

[@amnika2536]

@@juanrivera6207 thank you

[@ShotofTea]

Not entirely true. I was on medifast before they were rebranded. I slowly regained the weight I had lost. Right now I have portion control, hydrate, get plenty of sleep and exercise. The weight is coming off slowly, but I feel a lot healthier eating real food vs processed.

[@DyvmSlorm]

I’m not a dietician but if you were gaining weight before then you were eating more calories then your body burned. If, on the other hand, you were staying at one weight, even if it was more then you wanted, you were breaking even. Diet and lose some weight then your metabolism will be down a bit with the weight loss but going back to what your metabolic maintenance should be should be close to what you were eating before to remain at a certain weight. One of the problems I have with this “program” is all the generalities when it really isn’t that hard to find specifics and ones that would be overall more healthy for each individual.

[@happilyG]

Thank you for sharing your journey. I was surprised by the price and we can’t afford it so I’m happy I watched your video. 👌

[@HappierHeadstones]

When going on Optavia, get in the Habits of Health book and workbook that you get....it's a life changer, not just a diet!

[@carilynjurgeson6178]

I've been on Optavia off and on for over 6 months and lost 40 pounds so far. (I am allergic to something in Optavia foods, so I have been tinkering around trying to find out what it is ...possibly monk fruit.) When I have gone off of Optavia food, I switch to regular foods in my pantry and fridge that are similar in nutritional values to Optavia. The result has been continued weight loss, but at a slower pace. I think the Optavia plan is great to help a person get into a routine of eating a different way and to get a boost on weight loss. Once a person gets to their goal weight, they are supposed to slowly add normal healthy foods back into their diet. At times when I go off of Optavia food, I watch the scale closer and eat in a very similar pattern as Optavia fuelings. I don't even crave fast food and sugary foods anymore. I have had some similar thoughts as you, but feel good with my decision to try to stay on Optavia or mimic it as much as possible with regular grocery store items. Any diet plan will be a failure if the person isn't committed to permanent or long term change.

[@anaknitito]

You hit the nail on the head! Optavia has retrained my brain in choosing the right foods that will prevent inflammation in my body, ultimately healthier and not just thinner/slimmer. The mind is a powerful tool---if I keep thinking I can eat the way I used to, indiscriminately, especially with cakes, pastries and breads-my weight will creep back up. These have no nutritional value but they do taste yummy so I can have a small taste but I have chosen not to eat a lot of them. Saying I CHOOSE NOT TO EAT these instead of I CAN"T HAVE THEM is key. The latter is a 'victim mentality' and will surely make one feel deprived. I feel that is not helpful for my mindset.

[@careylc405]

I too am allergic to something in the products. I just started the program, literally starting my 2nd week and broke out in hives. It was suggested that I just eat the products that do not have soy (thinking maybe its a soy allergy?? I dont know). I am more upset that I have a ton of food I now cannot eat. I doubt I will get next months order.

[@JoAnneFayeL]

What kind of foods are you eating that are similar in comparison to Optavia fuelings? I’ve been on it 6 weeks but I can no longer afford their food. I thought of buying my own fuelings but I’m not sure they will have the same nutritional content.

[@Deb-xp1qc]

I agree 100% , I’m on it now and I’m looking to lose weight, build metabolism for 3 months then tweet the fuel to a lifestyle fit for me. But in the long run eating a bunch snack bars is not forever.

[@SteelerFan1007]

My box didn’t have any bars. I chose the gluten free plan, and the fuelings tasted horribly. I’m being completely honest; it is my opinion and experience.

[@fabulousbookfiend9127]

It's really interesting to hear your thoughts on this having tried it. I think anything where they force you to use their products only are more of a money maker than actually a 'healthy lifestyle' thing. I've tried some of those in the past and I think where you have the option to do your own cooking & as you said, make your own choices eating out are a better option.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

Yeah, I tend to agree. I think it was a good short term option for me because I was feeling very stuck after having my second baby, but I don't love when they try to sell it as for everyone all the time.

[@HappierHeadstones]

UM...If I am not mistaken, and I know I am not as I have been on about all of them (Optivia is the only one working), they ALL are a fortune...Weight Watchers is the least expensive, BUT, they change their plan almost every single year. I also was on a Paleo diet, it was costing me 162.00 a week and I had to provide 2 meals, fast for 2 and had shake (powder and water only) for 2 meals. SO, 162.00 a week for 15 meals. They were very good, freshly made is a very high end local restaurant. Jenny Craig and Nutri Systems is disgusting!

[@susanwoo7536]

Thanks for sharing, great tips for people who are going to start the program

[@AJMackey1]

Great video. I'm about to start it and your video taught me a lot. Sounds like what I'm looking for, a relatively short term to lose a bunch of weight.

[@fancyx8794]

It might not be for everyone. But it teaches you healthy lifestyle.habits ..Drinking water ,exercises, Staying goal oriented. Healthy sleep patterns. You get a coach. Weekly videos , fb community interactions share recipes and stories of sucess . I lost 35 lbs so far happy! It comes with workbooks too !

[@jeannied7743]

Congrats. It’s great when you find something that works for you. Losing weight is extremely hard.

[@dixiech1ck]

Huh? It doesn't teach you how to eat at all. Limiting calories to 1000 per day starts to shut organs and vital production in the body down. They tell you not to exercise. This program put me in the hospital for 2 weeks. They've been sued multiple times for deceptive practices and lying to the public about their claims.

[@LadiesofPurposeTV]

Are you still doing well with weight loss?

[@sandyseibert7044]

I would have loved to hear you talk about the other parts of the program like the Habits of Health and Living a Longer and Healthier Life Book.

[@coffeebitt1]

I really appreciate the honest review for sure. Nothing is guaranteed, it’s effort and like the lady said in the comments. Heath vs illness👍🏻we will spend on both, choose which one!

[@cristinao.4817]

Isn’t the point of the Optavia program to lose the weight with the fuelings and then transition and you no longer need the fuelings unless you choose to buy them as a snack or breakfast shake?

[@misscaboverde]

I did Optavia in 2019 and lost 40 pounds. In the last 2 years, I’ve gained 20 pounds back. I tried to restart the program a couple of times, and i was able to drop 3-4 pounds the first week, but i didn’t stick with it. I’ve now restarted the program again (for the 4th time), but now it’s no longer working. I’ve been on it for 2 weeks now, and have only lost 1.8 pounds. I’m disappointed that the diet is no longer working on my body.

[@KaylaStaceyfitness]

Honey I’m a PT and exercise Physiologist. 1.8 pounds in two weeks is absolutely amazing. Just because you’re not getting “huge” results as you were before doesn’t mean it’s not working. But results are results let’s not get greedy with them. You’re doing amazing. It’s okay to say if this program is not for you either! Remember scales are BS! Take before and after photos as well as measurements😊

[@LauraLopez-ux5tb]

I’m curious to know what your coach is saying about why you’re not having the same results now as before…I’m in your shoes girl!

[@ShannonThor.]

Drink lots of water

[@nearlythenewswithvicki9289]

Hi, thanks for the review. I just started it a month ago and have lost 20. Did you do the maintenance? It is very expensive for me as well, but it’s just me. I’m wondering if I can find these shakes & bars in the grocery store. I do cheat- I figure it’s better than eating cake & pizza everyday. You are easy to listen to so I’ll follow you- not sure what your regular channel is about. 💙💙💙

[@christinacaul4652]

Thanks for an honest review. Shocked by representatives of company scolding you for having an opinion that conflicts with theirs. I was on the fence until I read the comments.

[@daniellefrank007]

Definitely motivating to hear it really works. Some of us just need a Head Start

[@leighannsteeber452]

I am on my first days of Optavia and I agree with everything you said. I used to be super fit and healthy and I am hoping the Optavia program will just reset me back into that place, but I feel like if a person has not had that foundation, it could be a difficult transition....We will see how I do

[@my.optaviajourney9622]

Thank you for sharing this video. It is inspirational to see others and hear their stories. It will certainly help me on my own journey!

[@tcslife3336]

Thank you. It answered the questions I had.

[@EmilieSpeck]

I agree with some of your points! I am on it right now, I am only using it to tone up. I've lost 8 pounds in less than two weeks and that's crazy to me!!! I will say, this is a temporary thing. And of course you're going to gain weight if you go back to eating the way you did.. that's just common knowledge! If you stick to those lean and green meals after you go off this, you shouldn't be gaining anything back and continuing to lose. Also - buying lean meat and veggies isn't that expensive. I spend 40 bucks a week on two people for 1 week... so I don't know how much you're buying?! You have to think of your health long term.. not short term. Eating healthy is more expensive than fast food/restaurants and unhealthy food/frozen food at the grocery store.. but your medical bills will be absolute if you eat healthy. You end up saving so much in the long term, both health wise & money wise. I do agree on the facts people bring up about the fuelings being processed and that doesn't help someone's habit into eating good after they are off.. but you have to remember this is temporary and it's something to help you ease into eating healthier. Anyone should know if you don't eat like those lean and green meals.. you're going to gain weight. Just some opinion from someone who eats relatively healthy!

[@barbaraturner9]

It is very expensive. I'm about to start day 4. I'm planning on using it for a few months for quick weight loss and gaining knowledge. I will then transition to a keto diet. But I need to loose 100 lbs pretty fast.

[@anniedawson931]

Same. I’d like to know how you do! Also look at Paleo and Clean Eating.

[@johannacollins4721]

Count macros! Use a calorie calculator and make sure you are strength training and getting enough protein in your diet!

[@jenericstewart]

statistically, whether we do a fad quick diet or something slower, 98% of dieters regain their lost weight. i lost 130 lbs through intermittent fasting 7 years ago. now i have 20 lbs regain, which i'm tackling with optavia. keeping our weight off is a full time job, especially those who have not had weight loss surgery. appreciate your insight.

[@sleepykat9]

The 5 in 1 plan is not meant forever it's only temporary. They have the 3 on 3 and they have the 4 and 2 which still involve the bars tho

[@diannasummers4504]

I have actually utilized this unique t.co/tKObtu8FwA for several days already and also the results are fantastic. They give me plenty of strength and also reduce my desire for food, but I don`t crash when they wear off which I love, and they don`t make me jittery. I haven`t changed anything else I`m doing and also have lost 7 lbs

[@AuntieCarol1970]

Thank you. I was wondering this very idea.

[@lorajiron6725]

I’m starting the program today. I really needed to watch this because my “coach” is super excited for me to be on it and I’m nervous because I’m tired of fad diets. But I have to lose at least 100 pounds.

[@anniedawson931]

Me too. My package is expected this week. I know in advance that I cannot sustain eating like this but have mindset that it is a “fast” to help me jumpstart changes I need to make.

[@Helpmetobethelight]

How did it work for you?

[@renewyourmind1815]

I just got off the vegan diet a year ago. I lost waaaayy too much weight on that diet & burned through my reserves to the point I felt like death despite eating every HOUR towards the end. My hair fell out, period was showing signs it would stop soon too, my gums bled, I was always bloated then I got 3 cavities! When I first went vegan I was rapidly losing weight but I felt great bc I was burning my own fat as energy. I'm normally 115, there isn't much to burn off. I've never had any weight issues, but my son was born before switching to the vegan diet & I'd gained 75 pounds during my pregnancy! He was a healthy 9 pound baby, delivered natural. The vegan diet helped me lose weight AND too much of it. Today is literally day one of Octavia & I'm probably not going to continue. It feels too restrictive; like you I'm not thinking this is a long term solution. Eating bars all day? Nope. The food is all processed junk & I am still healing from the vegan diet! My hair continues to grow back in the way it should. I truly don't feel starving myself is healthy on processed junk (bc on the vegan diet I ate whole foods, organic & still felt like poop without animal products.) So for me, it's a no. Even on day one. I will not put myself in harm's way for the sake of people proclaiming it's so amazing ever again. I'm a VERY active person tending to horses, dairy goats, chickens, & homeschooling my toddler. I basically dont get to sit down much throughout the day. I think I gained weight now, bc the vegan diet made me lose a ton of weight & now I'm back to eating a normal diet. It's like dang girl, you were starving, let's store some fat for you for the next famine! Lol. I have no doubt I can burn this off another way, but I refuse to starve myself on a restricted diet again. MY GOAL IS TO BE HEALTHY, NOT LOSE TONS OF WEIGHT RAPIDLY. & that ends my rant lol.

[@YTLawnGnome]

I have realized more than enough times that I don't believe in diets. I mean everyone is allowed to try and experiment with methods and yes they do work for a great many people. My attitude is really about not what you eat...it's really about how much of it you eat in a meal. My main challenge is eating only one portion at a meal because I get real hungry real quick. However, I have been told that reason why that happens is because I eat too fast and I need to slow down my intake of food. Also exercise is something that I have been lacking for about 2 years because I use to be a gym rat but, job changes and time restrictions have really taken their toll. I may not look it but, there was a time where I was classified as borderline obese and I was not happy with that (not a believer in body positivity right here). No carbs and no sugar I don't believe in at all. It's just for me finding a balance, counting your calories and getting in exercise. As soon as I becoming a home owner I am going to be investing in equipment finally get back into cardio training and muscle building as I use to. I am certain I can get back to the weight I was at before I changed my career.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

Thanks for sharing! I think I'm discovering that different things work for different people and I'm figuring out what works for me and makes me have energy and feel good. Life getting busy does make the gym tough!

[@christinezellmer4926]

I appreciate you honest review! I think anyone who’s dieting should never have to pay for a program. That is never a lifestyle solution.

[@mickeyshepherd2232]

I also am on Optavia and have lost about 75 pounds. I lately went off and started eating the way I did before, of course I started gaining some weight back. The way I ate before is why I weighed so much. Optavia is a plan to get you to lose weight and transition to a healthy way of eating. It is not a forever diet. The Habits of Health book is truly helpful and necessary for continued success.

[@lisekrieger3468]

I did it last year and lost weight but it took forever because I couldn't stay on it. Also, I realized how few calories I was eating and knew it was unhealthy. I lost 35 lbs. but regained back alot of the weight because I went back to eating sugar and junk. So I'm doing it again but I track my food and aim for 1200 to 1400 calories. So I add fruit, sourdough bread, and additional healthy high fiber food. As long as I keep the sugar low I loose weight. I'm also exercising this time around, both easy cardio and strength and weight training. I just need some kind of structure. So, I know all the drawbacks but am making it work for me. I will only do for the short term and transition to homemade fuelings/snacks and three meals a day. Alot of times I do three meals by combining two fuelings for breakfast because I can't make the cooked fuelings and be out and about.

[@user-yb2ng4tp8v]

Beautiful ❤ Thank you!

[@savanahbustle3361]

Paying for it is one of the biggest complaints I hear. However, I also hear the sustainability of as a biggest complaint and that one confuses me. Only because you are never suppose to stay of the 5 and 1 plan. Your suppose to get to a transition stage. The transition stage is where you learn how to eat three meals a day with 3 “snacks” in between. And they teach you how to live apart from the plan and you no longer have to buy their products unless you want to. Secondly, the price complaint is also confusing to me. You are eating for about $15 a day. Most people spend that anyway. Minus the lean and green of course. But I include that in the family meal planning because my whole family eats what I eat as far as my lean and green.

[@blakefry918]

Everyone, including myself and two of their coaches. And their celebrity endorser 🏈 NFL coach Andy Reid… all gained all the weight back and the diet failed. The expensive part is workable, but it is 100% unsustainable. Eating low carb and eating smaller amounts more often, is effective.

[@SteelerFan1007]

Honestly though, eating roughly 850 calories a day for the rest of your life does not seem healthy to me.

[@AllUnbelievableShits]

@@SteelerFan1007 ooof that sounds scary and unhealthy.

[@jewelthompson4210]

Were you on the 4&2&1 program or the 5&1?

[@laurenwortman8695]

Thanks I’m ok with the expense.

[@melissaleal8559]

Have you tried to look up snacks that are comparable to the ones OPTAVIA provides?....

[@ShotofTea]

I was on Medifast before they were rebranded. It worked, it was expensive, but it worked.. I slowly regained the weight I lost. Now I just eat real food, watch my portions, hydrate, nap and exercise. 😊

[@HaveFaithInGod]

I know nothing about the foods you have to buy from them monthly. Can the diet be "hacked"? Could the foods and portions be put together on my own bypassing the company's involvement? Meaning, buy in for a month then clone your own based on what you've learned. How can you quit it but not be able to DYI the program?

[@SteelerFan1007]

I agree with you on all accounts, especially the cost! It’s extremely expensive.

[@CaitlinFranklin]

I'm curious if you did a proper transition off of the program? I imagine that if you just stopped the program cold turkey, you might gain most of it back? The point of coaches and the program is to help you transition off properly and learn proper eating habits after you've lost the weight. I don't think they want you to do 5&1 for the rest of your life....

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

I did it partially for a long time because in theory I was supposed to have continued with weight loss. I didn't regain weight quickly either, it was over almost a year and only half of what I lost. I think for me, the program just doesn't work as a long term plan even without the 5&1 but I think if it works for others that's great! I think if you want to kickstart weight loss or just don't have that much to lose it is effective.

[@coricooper9688]

I agree with you! I am going to do the program and the idea is to learn good habits in order to have a successful life transformation in the long run. Going on a diet for a couple of months and then just going back to your old habits will, obviously, make you gain the weight back. This is a life transformation not a short term process.

[@joaniebt7908]

This program teach you how to eat healthy and portion control. Of course you can still dine out and have fun. But instead of eating a dozen of buffalo wings and beer, have 2-3 wings. You can still go to a party and eat but the next day, you go back and eat healthy and drink lots of water. Any diet doesn't work without maintaining it. You don't just stop and hope the weight remain the same!

[@TheMarsharobinson]

@@BeautifullyBookishBethany It works for many, many people who have a lot to lose. If you can't afford it, there is the option to coach other people and pay nothing. I have lost 98 pounds and still losing. I have paid nothing for my food for 11 months with very little time needed to earn it. My doctor said I am no longer diabetic even though I was diabetic for 18 years and on 50 units of insulin a day for the eight years before this program. You've come along too late to convince me this program is too expensive or doesn't work. To anyone trying to make up their minds I say: If you make up your mind to do what thousands of people have done successfully, JUST LIKE THEY SAY TO DO IT, this program will change your life.

[@loriditri8897]

Optavia is an MLM..You can get the products for free if you get into the business aspect of it and become a coach. There’s nothing wrong with treating it like a business… However some people are just not wanting to get caught up in that.

[@yoligooding]

Yes, I believe this is a good program. The only thing is you do need to have money. And I believe that I will have to quit the program. Good luck. God bless and love to all.

[@gr8macaw1]

Very good video. Of course it is possible to loose a lot of weight with any extremely low calorie diet but unfortunately it is difficult to maintain. As the weight drops metabolic rate slows and actually when one starts eating more it takes less calories to maintain body weight than before the diet. When people say every time they diet they gain all the weight back and some that is true. Fast food is poison, highly addictive, hits the same brain receptors as many drugs and has such a rapid transit time through the gut that 2 hours later you are hungry. My diet plan in one sentence; don’t eat beige food.

[@AKPist]

There are parts of this video that I agree with, but I do think there are some points that are a little fuzzy/perhaps not fully fleshed out. If you were training for the Olympics in the sport you wouldn’t try it for three months and say that you know everything about that sport, there would be a breaking in. And acclimating. And a period where you’re really running on all cylinders and having fun with it. * that’s in no way meant to be a dig, through my own personal experience had I stopped even at six months I would have had a much different understanding than I have now 12 months later. I have kept my 70 pounds off and depending on the scenario I am transitioning into making most of my own meals and being fully active as an athlete again. Optavia still helps me stay on track! The programs intention is not to keep you on the fuelings for life: they have just simplified all of the things you would need to lose the weight so you can have a fresh start, reset your taste buds and portion size control, feel a heck of a lot better, and go from there! The fuelings are to simplify the food going into your body in a healthy way (all the multivitamins included will make sure that you’re not at a deficit for anything like so many other “diets“ are you only focused on macro nutrients) that you kind of can’t mess it up while you’re focusing on educating yourself & creating one healthy meal of the day. You are supposed to move off of the fuelings and continue the lifestyle afterwards, which is not the same when you’re in fat loss than when you’re in maintenance. This is an important point because diets end. to the point in this video she actually says if she hadn’t made some changes she would’ve gained all the weight back… Yes exactly!!! The real Optavia plan is creating healthier habits for life through the guidance of several educational texts community support and health coaches. There is nothing magical about the food, and there is no food that will keep you from gaining weight if you eat incorrect proportions to your lifestyle: what needs to change is the lifestyle (presuming that someone is wondering how to lose weight and keep it off. And yes, it’s not for everyone, everybody is different and that is wonderful!) The weight loss portion (5&1) of the program is not what you’re supposed to do the rest of your life unless you really enjoy the structure of it; it does not include rigorous activities and things of that nature although it encourages you to be mobile. If you are more active there are actually different programs with different ways of fueling and eating to match with your goals. (Some people want to be highly athletic and mobile, some people would prefer mild walking at most) When you’re ready you transition to making your own food, being ready to enjoy smaller portions and being aware of the type of foods that are going into your body. I do appreciate the honest feedback absolutely! And she’s not wrong, when you are in fat burn most people don’t feel hungry after the first four days almost ever, unless you slip out of fat burn and then you have to go over through the 2 to 4 day process of getting back into it. Again this is only during weight loss portion of the health change. The system is not 100% based on the scale either! It really takes into account the whole person, mind body and spirit. It helps you work on stress, sleep, hydration, activity, how to live a longer healthier and more energetic life.

[@supermanny73]

You mentioned the expense being excessive for the program. Did you take into account that this replaced eating out as well as other meals and groceries you would have paid for otherwise?

[@litcitycandles965]

I don't believe most people eat out to the tune of $400/month or more.

[@vollyfever]

it's gotten very expensive, I've done it through the years. I'm hoping to keep around just some snacks

[@SM-qh2mz]

Just like any diet pretty much.....it works BUT will you stay with this lifestyle? I have found WW very helpful in teaching about portions of the foods I actually like in real living and very sustainable when you stop the program.

[@coopercam5817]

When deciding on a weight loss program, you have to find one that will fit with your goals and be sustainable for the long term. Agree with you that Optavia is not a fit for everyone, but it's perfect for me. I'm a mom who works a demanding career and have reconciled that regular exercise is not going to be sustainable for me. Therefore, the plan I pick had to be effective independent of exercise. On an unmodified 5-1 Optavia plan, you are not supposed to exercise vigorously. Check. I don't eat out much, nor can I be bothered to prepare food during the work day. The fuelings are easy and quick to grab between meetings. Check. I have seen consistent progress since I started--nothing dramatic--but I'm over 50. 1 - 2 pounds per week is fine for me, as it allows my body time to slowly adjust to the changes. Check. So it's not for everyone, but if this sounds like you, and you won't "die" without bread /pasta/potatoes everyday, then it's worth looking into.

[@kristijacoby4157]

Bingo!! I recently lost 40 pounds and I have been on maintenance for 6 weeks. I still eat the Octavia food, but I supplement with what I want to want to eat as well. I only buy the food from them that I like which is a bonus because there are many of their food choices that I dislike.I even drink a glass of wine a couple nights each week. I exercise now and I pay close attention to the scale. If I go up 3 to 4 pounds I watch it for a few days and I'm back at my goal. I'm very committed and determined to stay at my happy and healthy weight.

[@louannschafer7565]

I totally disagree with your assessment. You do spend more money while you are on the weight loss part of the program but the whole point is to get you to transition and maintenance. At that point you aren't eating 5 pre-packaged meals a day. You shift to 4&2 and then you can choose if you don't want to purchase the fuelings any longer, there are other options. Listening to you, I am not sure if you did your homework while on plan. Dr. Andersons' Healthy Habits book is an essential part of learning the program and what comes next and how to live your best healthy life. Congrats on your weight loss. For many people, they have tried so many programs and may have some success or may not but the health you gain on this program is totally worth it. I know my coach keeps bars and shakes on hand as her snacks for the day but otherwise eats healthy meals. For any program to be successful long term, you have to change your habits. You can have a holiday meal but that meal can't turn into a week of holiday fun into a month of holiday parties. I have been on program for 6 months and am down 54#. In that 6 months, I took a 3 week vacation and did not stay on program. I let myself enjoy my meals but didn't have dessert every day and skipped the bread. I gained 6# on vacation and lost it in 1 week going back on program. This health plan is sustainable and it works - again and again.

[@carolhensley3857]

Well ive just ordered and plan to start January 1. Im excited but I also know I cant afford to do this very long. Maybe 3 months. So im hoping to find similar products when I can no longer afford it

[@dianec3469]

I am on maintenance on Weight Watchers, but would like to loose about 10 more pounds. Do you think this product would work for that if followed up with WW to sustain it?

[@stacyharrell4030]

I believe it would. That’s what our plan was before we discovered how transition works. The program teaches you how to eat without the fuelings, if you go through the parts of the Habits of Health. Your coach would help with that as well. Let me know if you want to learn more. You can find me on FB and IG

[@jewelsb9613]

I'm on it week 3 down 11 pounds and 24 inches. I split my protein at lunch and dinner. I try to choose the higher protein. So I'm able to eat 2 full meals at lunch and dinner. I'm not missing out. I actually sometimes forget to eat. You MUST TAKE SUPPLEMENTS. I take B complex and a few others. I do increase my protein on days I need it and I'm still losing weight and feel good and sleep better. Once I go through the steps with this I will eat healthy and keep it off. It all depends on how much you want it

[@stacyharrell4030]

According to the program information, there are probiotics and vitamins in the fuelings. Did your coach recommend vitamins? My coach said it’s all in there.

[@jewelsb9613]

@@stacyharrell4030 I had no idea about that.. I'm taking vitamins as well.. I may be over doing it then...

[@stacyharrell4030]

@@jewelsb9613 I would definitely talk to your coach about the vitamins. Your coach could also get you info that you could present to your doctor for feedback. Optavia coaches are not medical professionals. It’s always good to talk with your doctor if you have other questions about vitamins. But I would run it by your coach to see how they can help get you access to that info.

[@jewelsb9613]

@@stacyharrell4030 I appreciate the advice and I'm doing so today. Thank you also for you ever notice your sugar ever dropping? I catch myself fasting and eating later and yesterday I started feeling nausea and dizzy and my sugar was 70 😱 I don't have issues but I think I'm not eating properly honest. I'm not eating enough veggies and not eating enough. It was a scary feeling. It came up once I ate some honey and had juice and I are a normal meal. But now I know what that feeling is

[@stacyharrell4030]

@@jewelsb9613 I had that happen one day when I put off eating in the morning and did yoga. Big mistake. Make sure you eat within 30 minutes of waking up and eat every 2-3 hours, whether you are hungry or not. You shouldn’t actually ever get hungry if you are in fat burn. If you do get hungry in fat burn, I would add a couple extra ounces of protein during the day. Maybe try eating your lean and green earlier in the day or splitting it I to two meals so you eat 7 times a day Instead of 6. Having a good coach makes all the difference. Make sure you work closely with your coach, and if they don’t know what they are doing, go to their coach.

[@dee27206]

$400 a month is actually a deal compared to 30/10 which was $1200 plus having to pay for you meats and veggies. That’s just me though.

[@ABC-rg4li]

Yeah I was paying for factor which was only 6 meals at 90$. And hello fresh is 3 meals/6 servings at 70some$ so it's literally the same if you were buying food with that amount of protein. And paying for vitamins and probiotics. But it's all included.

[@ABC-rg4li]

Well minus the lean and green. But still cheaper than. Fast food and way more sustainable than boxed Mac n cheese or burritos lol

[@SteelerFan1007]

The $400 is just for the snacks only, not for the lean and greens. And… that is for just one person. I have a family to support, not to mention, the snacks tasted horribly.

[@trustinggoddaily8133]

Thank you for your video and❤ add my questions to you as a is it possible to transition off if you’ve done it for let’s say six months and you’ve lost 40 to 60 pounds and you transition into eating healthy foods kind of like a Mediterranean low carb diet no sauce, no sausage no greasy foods you know just stick to more eating healthier him I want to know what you think. Would your thoughts on that are I don’t wanna do this and getting all the way back I want to stick to eating healthier after I’ve done this and that means they’re just gonna make a lifestyle change for my park so I stick to it. What are your thoughts?

[@michelebennett8566]

I thought I would try the program cause alot of my friends lost alot of weight. Yesterday was my first day and my last day. My body couldn't handle so much soy. I was so bloated and constipated last night and very nauseated and throwing up. I'm really upset because I really was hoping this would work but unfortunately I'm going to have to send the products back

[@heartstrings110]

I agree. It’s is not a lifestyle solution. It’s a short term weight loss solution.

[@melainagautier2359]

It is $400 a month but if you price out what you spend you find you may not be spending much more. I buy for my family so my lean and green comes with that, not buying extra snacks for me or certain things it comes out about the same. Once you lose they have other options that can be more sustainable. Keto can also be effective quickly but you too can gain weight, It’s a lifestyle choice if you do the other options; break it down it’s not that much when you are comparing apples to apples. I am not a coach, but you have to learn how to do that and there’s a way around it too. The pre packaged has vitamins and also has probiotics.

[@NewYears1978]

What would you recommend to do after doing Optavia? Like using Optavia for 3 months to drop 25-40 lbs, then switching to a healthier lifestyle? Suggestions?

[@joyceweinstock9334]

I know this is now old, but how are you doing? have you landed on a healthy daily eating plan?

[@lilyt2216]

Thank you

[@debbiehardcastle3009]

I am curious about the nutrition in the products. In my book Diet is a 4- letter word that begins with Die, based on deprivation. I am not saying this to be negative-- but what a lot of people don’t realize is that our food sources are nutritionally bankrupt.

[@Poisonshady313]

You can easily look up the nutrition facts of optavia fuelings on google. The optavia 5&1 program is certainly low calorie, but I can assure you for the 22 months I was on it I was not deprived.

[@judithdelljohnston6706]

been on it 5+ weeks - down 18#. i walk 3m/day. i have to. puppy insists. so i got the kit (no real choices of what i might like - coach ordered it. shipping is painful - taking 2-3 weeks to get an order. i HATED some of the stuff but made myself eat it cuz it costs so much. when i got ready to reorder they were out of MANY things that are poplular and it’s been a month - still nothing they’ve been out of is back in stock (soy bean issues no doubt LOL). i was promised that i would love the mocha blast cuz i drink a mocha latte every morning (make my own). never got it the first time and STILL not available. i have a “source” for some of the smashed potatoe product (they are out of) but i can only get it cuz she has a storehouse full. i’m REALLY disappointed in this program for that very reason. i could be on it for a long time and glad to do the transition but this being out of product is absurd - STOP SELLING THE PROGRAM IF YOU CAN’T SUPPLY THE PRODUCT. i’m tired of what’s available and need some new flavors of shakes etc....when i am out of my current supply i’m going to go back to dr. hyman’s “pagan” diet “eat fat get thin”. just read an article on the DASH/MIND program - highly recommended by dieticians - especially for seniors. i needed a “new” program to remotivate me - and i’m motivated now to get back to eating the way i ate for a year on dr. hyman’s plan. btw - i just got lazy, covid hit and mom came to live with me for 10 weeks.....that’s why i left the “eat fat get thin” plan.

[@johncoffey6798]

I have been on the program for seven weeks and I have lost 20 pounds. This was mostly weight that I gained during the start of the pandemic. I have always been active, work out 5 days a week, and walk to work. I am about to transition from weight loss to maintenance and have many concerns about how this will go. Your review was insightful.

[@Poisonshady313]

I'm guessing you're still in transition. I've been in maintenance for 4 months and I'm doing fine. I'm making good choices, eating 6 times per day... sometimes i gain a little, sometimes i lose a little. I kinda slide up and down between 170 and 180. Seeing as how my goal was 190, I'd say this maintenance thing is going very well.

[@AKgalStamps-Donnamarshall]

Ok...so what happens after you meet your goal. Are you able to change your eating habits to be sustainable?

[@dcshewrn]

My best friend is doing it now. What i find perplexing is that 75% of all the foods and bars are full of genetically modified soy, including the "Select" options. Well known now that soy is dangerous to health and GMO soy kills lab animals. I could piece my plan together with the non soy options, there are a few. A company that would use soy in this day and age tho...

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

Yeah, soy in moderation is fine, but I agree in terms of the quantity on the program. As I said, it is effective in the short term, but I wouldn't necessarily use it long term.

[@kimcovington4395]

The soy in these products are non gmo

[@Poisonshady313]

There are a number of soy free products as well, especially among the "select" options.

[@tabythagoode9487]

What would you recommend for high quality foods at the grocery store? My husband and I have talked about spending more on groceries. I think I might could persuade him into getting higher quality foods? I’m desperate... I had talked to an old friend of mine about this he has a nutritionist as a career. So you’ve tried this. What foods should I push more for? Thanks so much I’m advance for your feedback!

[@Poisonshady313]

The whole point of the program is to not go back to your old ways of eating. The 5&1 is a weight loss program. It's not meant to be "sustainable". It's meant to last until you hit your goal, then you transition into a customized meal plan where you still eat 6 times per day, but you no longer need the meal replacements. If you were under the impression that you were meant to be on the 5&1 forever, than either you had a terrible coach or you failed to pay attention. And i doubt very much that you read the books. The 5&1 allows you to lose weight quickly and safely while you learn healthy habits and how to make healthier choices. Seems like you were made aware of the first part of that last sentence, and were left painfully oblivious to the second part. It might not be your fault... i hope you can learn from those of us in these comments who are telling you what your description of optavia is lacking.

[@lucym5698]

My hair started falling out from a ingredient they use. Is not a sustainable use for gut health long term I was advised

[@TheHexedLibrary]

I'm curious too about how you felt physically. I did Nutrisystem several years ago for about two months. I lost like 30 pounds but all I ever did was sleep. Pretty much I'd eat all of my meals at work and then sleep until it was time to go to work again because I didn't have the energy to do anything. Half the time I was falling asleep at work too! and I was allllways hungry.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

After the first couple of weeks my energy was actually pretty good. I did supplement with a little more fat than recommended (avocado, olive oil etc.) which might be part of why. The problem was if I got off track I felt terrible. And actually, what I'm doing now is more high fat low carb and that seems to be working well for me and I'm not hungry!

[@california3716]

Oh my goodness gracious $400 a month I will stick to IF. Thanks for this review

[@alexachenbach821]

First time watching

[@Kadee82]

I COMPLETELY agree. I did the program for one month. It is not sustainable. I’ve had similar results eating real food.

[@rachellehouse2899]

The Optavia fuelings are only a tool. Optavia is not a diet, is NOT a weight loss program. If you stay in touch with your coach, you will change your habits.

[@kialharris]

Did you transition.

[@jgkrus]

I started 2 weeks ago and down 12 pound. I think its good for the short term but longevity i don't think so..Im riding about 10 miles every other day, i can tell you this low calorie is too low for active people... I do wish they take in account for men. Pos is that the meals are done and only have to worry about 1 cooked meal .. I follow the plan but I get hungry often and I drink 3 32 oz bottle of water everyday. If you workout in some fashion everyday the calories is too low for what you're doing. The soy bothers me alotvas in gas and bloded.. My Dr. is not a fan of soy. I'm Learning more and more about how I eat. Its about choices... Look I am going to eat ice cream when I get to my weight which this keeps up it will be by March. Now do I need 3 scoops or one.. if I eat a donut do I need 4 or just one... Its about choices and portions control. Iam looking as comparisons on the bars and shakes to that of Optaiva. If you look around you can find a lot of variety out there. Like I said I comes down to moderation, portion control and what you are eating..

[@Poisonshady313]

Jeff, there is consideration for more active people. It's called the 4&2. It's not a secret, you can easily read about it on the website. Im a man. I used the 5&1 for 5 months and did just fine. Lost 100 lbs, and was never bothered by the calorie count. I just stuck to the plan and it worked.

[@thelastminmom5251]

Sooo it’s good for a wedding or high school reunion or something. But not for every day. I think just eating clean and in moderation is the key.

[@standingupforwomen71]

May I ask some questions about your maintenance? I’m finishing a 50lb loss.

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

Sure!

[@standingupforwomen71]

Thank you. 1. What type of workouts have you found most effective? How long are they? 2. How many carbs do you eat each day? I appreciate your help

[@BeautifullyBookishBethany]

No problem, and congratulations! As far as workouts, I honestly haven't had time in my life at the moment with two young kids to fit in traditional workouts. However, I live in a city where I walk almost everywhere and I'm on my feet with my kids a lot. It's not uncommon for me to spend 2+ hours in a day walking to do errands. For carbs, I am currently doing a high fat, moderate protein, low carb diet. On a typical day I probably eat around 30g of net carbs (total carbs minus fiber) with most of that coming from vegetables and nuts.

[@standingupforwomen71]

Beautifully Bookish Bethany that’s motion. Don’t deny that parenthood is a work out !!

[@juliehager9092]

@@standingupforwomen71 this plan recommends & advises NO EXERCISE so you can get into a gentle fat burning state. Also no alcohol which has a huge impact on initial weight loss. I was on plan over a year intending to lose only 10 #. I always exercised so #1 it killed me to not exercise #2 I am in my mid 50s so to not workout is NOT an option for me particularly with my family history of osteoporosis #3 I don't care for pre packaged / processed foods #4 i have ALWAYS eaten healthy I lost 25# in 2 months and started coaching 2 months in my "journey" Gained it all back & more-! Plus my blood work did not reveal my imported health in fact numbers were not as favorable as b4 I'd started plan This is a deftly a MLM and sold as a lifestyle change. I am no longer on plan for several months now & won't go back. I am doing other things & now feel better than ever including daily exercise which help with feeling so well!

[@nesmoney]

Hi I am curious because you are not suppose to use the fueling for ever and I was taught how to replicate them. you basically learn how to eat 100 calories for each fueling. I no longer order the fuelings because I am at my optimal weight. Also you can do a 4-2 program or 3-3 program

[@yexuslover1]

The whole point of Optavia is to teach you how to eat healthy if you want to lose weight and once you’ve reached your healthy weight, you’re suppose to use what you’ve learned to know how to maintain your healthy weight. If you go back to your old ways of eating before you started, of course you’re going to gain all the weight back. Plus, once you get to a healthy weight, I imagine you should be exercising regularly. It’s about a lifestyle change, not I loss the weight so I get to indulge again!

[@royalrachel329]

I just started the program and I hate the food 😫 I hate it! I don’t know what to do

[@BJane58]

I have a friend who lost around 40. She is so afraid of gaining the weight back, she still eats their soy bars instead of food. To stay really thin, you can't eat much. She will go on candy binges and gain 5 pounds and then get back on the diet bars to lose it. Lose and gain lose and gain. She also refuses to eat fruit cause it has sugar. She leads an obsessed lifestyle.

[@justjess-zl3pm]

Yeah. Ur weight varies by five pounds. I mean when she sees herself gaining she deals with it. For some reason people think they shouldn't deal with weight gain until it's a big issue. I keep track and I will do something when I hit ten pounds. Gaining five pounds a year isn't a big deal at first but that's avg. So by the time ur forty u are fifty pounds over weight.

[@BJane58]

You are right. I was one of those who didn't think five pounds was a big deal. Fast forward 6 years and i now have 30 to lose. Wish i had will power of my friend. I'm working hard now tomlose 2 a week.

[@HappierHeadstones]

That is her journey, you make your own journey. It sounds like she is maintaing tho....

[@melissareynolds56]

I'm on optavia but I'm not obsessed with it I've lost 20 since Nov 15 i use my fitness pal to track my nutrition values like disasters carbs etc. I've lost every well i have a cheat day on the weekends.I'm not logging my life all crazy like that it's too short. I watch my portions and calories when i do go off plan. I'm losing about 1-2 lbs a week and in satisfied with that outs a safe amount of weight loss at that rate.

[@sarahcasteel2594]

i'm in law school and i'm scared to represent the class action law suit when the medically hazardous amounts of soy give everyone cancer, but it will also definitely vindicate the personal harm it has caused me... i got so many blackouts when i went into fat burn that i had to go to the hospital. your friend is probably constantly feeling shitty and guilty. optavia gave me basically not officially, but what looks like, an eating disorder, with the way that they guilt you about even eating a piece of fruit. two years later and i still experience deep guilt eating literally a bite of an apple or a noodle. i feel bad for her. you either get sucked in or you "fail" at the program. i lost 25 lbs in like 5 weeks (i was not morbidly obese so that's a ridiculous amount) and i was "successful" and here i am two years later still feeling like shit every time i eat a bite of food becasue of what their coaches/group/philosophy did to me.