THE TRUTH ABOUT OPTAVIA | Dietitian Reviews Optavia, Optavia Lean & Green Meals, Optavia Fuelings

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There is a lot of buzz going on around the Optavia diet, but is Optavia healthy? I'm sharing my dietitian thoughts on the Optavia diet, Optavia lean & green meals, and Optavia fuelings. As a Registered Dietitian I stand by the stance that diet's don't work and will typically lead more more weight gain, not loss. Weight cycling has been linked to adverse health and wellbeing.
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-Colleen
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WHAT I EAT IN A DAY: • What I Eat In A Day
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[@jaedo71]

I am in week 5 on plan and I have lost 28 pounds….I have lots of energy and focus and feel extremely motivated to continue!

[@kbatchelor27]

I've lost 145 pounds and maintained it for over two years. This program has been a huge blessing for me. The program doesn't prohibit fruit or high glycemic vegetables forever, just during the weight loss phase.

[@tessior621]

From the very first two minutes of this and totally based on her facial expression, I knew she would crap all over this amazing program. NO OTHER DIET has helped me shed weight and fat as this program. It isn't sustainable long term 100% but it IS effective if you want a effective start. One negative is that they do not encourage physical activity/workout during the first 5-1 meals. I don't like to just lose weight. I rather lose it proportionally. A pro is that you weight your food so you are conscious of what you are consuming and I became very conscious that my proportions were entirely too large.

[@YesWeCanSong3]

@@tessior621 Thanks for sharing your experience. I am a certified NASM trainer as well as a certified ISSA nutritionist. I was just interviewed for a possible nutrition coach position for OptaVia. The interviewer did not mention the lack of exercise, but that concerns me deeply. Movement is LIFE; motion is lotion. The body needs to move in order for it to be healthy. I also object to eating "packaged" meals - call them what you want, but 100 calories of pre-packaged food is not sustainable or enjoyable.

[@denisespies1757]

I just started it. First time in my life I’m 64 I’ve had to diet. I’m going to stick with it for a while. I’m not really hungry on the plan.

[@jessicasilverman4920]

I love the plan. Nutritionalist haven’t helped me personally

[@buddhastl7120]

@@tessior621 they discourage physical activity because your caloric deficit is so low eating 800-1,000 calories per day that you are not getting the carbs or nutrients needed to sustain any type of strenuous physical activity. This lady is spot on in this video. Surely, you'll lose weight being at such a caloric deficit. As for being healthy, this diet is a huge red flag. Proceed at your own risk.

[@sarahrabin1842]

So here's a story... I was on Optavia back in Fall 2019 (I actually ended the program like 4 days after you posted this video). For me, it worked really well. Until it didn't. With my crazy busy schedule, it was SO easy to follow. Having those fueling bars on me for when I got hungry was great (I still think they were really yummy and would eat them as small snacks if I could) and the lean and green meals were really easy to make. I rarely had to think too much about them. I was losing weight and honestly felt really good and really confident. When I had almost reached my goal weight I started the transition to 4 and 2 (4 fuelings and 2 meals). However, just after starting this transition, I was instructed by my gastroenterologist to not eat this food anymore. See, after about 2 months on the program I started to have really strange digestive issues. I couldn't stop going to the bathroom, constantly feeling sick, and by the end of November 2019, I barely wanted to eat and couldn't go to the bathroom without being in absolutely horrid pain. I went to see a gastroenterologist who looked at the nutrition for what I'd been eating and said that not only were the calories and nutrition too low but a preservative they were using in the bars (carrageenan) was known to cause gastrointestinal distress. I immediately quit eating the bars, but by that point, it was too late. After extensive testing and a multitude of doctor and emergency room visits, it was determined that I have Crohn's disease. The Optavia food hadn't given me Crohn's, but because of the extremely low nutrition and the preservatives they were using, it did cause my body to go into shock and start having symptoms, triggering a full flare-up. I had no idea I had Crohn's until this, and my doctors said that it had clearly started months, if not years before I started on Optavia. So in a way, although this is what caused my symptoms to flare up so extremely, I kind of have to thank Optavia for helping me find this condition and get help, and it also made me realize how badly I was treating my body by eating like this. I finally started learning more about real nutrition, learning more about how carbs and fats are GOOD for us and relearning how to properly fuel my body. I'm still working on it after many years of dieting and being surrounded by diet culture, but it's a process and we're getting there.

[@abbybradley6803]

Thank you so much for sharing this! I've had issues with the bars, and was dismissed by some 'Oh, it will subside.'...Um nope! Great to have facts put out there. I stopped doing most bars bc of it, but will now discontinue them. I think I'll be starting a modified Optavia plan to up my calories some...Is there anything else your doc said to watch out for? Right now, I rather use this plan, and then transition to normalcy with a different way of life plan!

[@sarahrabin1842]

@@abbybradley6803 I was dismissed at first too by the "coaches" who run the plan! They tried to say it was just my body transitioning or some other lies to get me to stay on the program (or in one case a coach saying my doctor had no clue what they were talking about because how could a doctor know anything about the nutrition behind Optavia 🙄 I still have that message from that person). It definitely makes sense to slowly transition out of with a modified plan! I was warned to stay away from foods with carageenan, of course, as well as any other foods with "natural" preservatives. We also found that eating high amounts of vegetables can also sometimes cause distress for my symptoms! I was specifically warned about corn, bell peppers, broccoli, spinach, and other similar veggies. Alcohol too is another one that we realized was triggering some symptoms.

[@niambi191]

This review and testimonial was very informative. Thank you. I hope you're better now.

[@JohnHulett]

I started Optavia on Nov 26, 2018 at 272 with high blood pressure, diabetes 2 and sleep apnea. I was at 199.4 May 26, 2019. September 2019 blood work revealed by A1C dropped to 5.0. My primary doctor removed Clonidine, a med for BP I had been on since 2000, He removed Metformin, since there were no longer markers for Diabetes 2 and I no longer use a CPAP, since I no longer have sleep apnea. I have been transitioning from Optavia now at 3 x 3 a day. My weight has stabilized at 190-195. Prior to Optavia I could not walk 100 feet without sitting down. Now I walk up to 3 miles a day. My layman’s assessment of Optavia-it saved my life. It took me 74 years to get 272 & only 6 months to get to 199.4. Now I am a health Coach with 7 clients who are getting similar results.

[@shannoncampbell2017]

Good for you, John Hulett! That is so fantastic.

[@innerbeautyfirst]

John Hulett OUTSTANDING!!!! I am so proud of you for sharing. I know it works too. I have lost over 40 pounds in three months!!! People on this program have kept the weight off for more than a decade and some even longer. This month I will finally be under 200 pounds for the first time in ten years. My joints no longer ache. Optavia is different than any DIET, because it’s a healthy lifestyle change with making healthy choices one day at a time. I studied Optavia for NINETEEN MONTHS before I finally said yes. It didn’t make sense to me at first either because it is COMPLETELY DIFFERENT than anything we have been taught before. I took that leap and Oh My ... IT WORKS! My coach and best friend who I watched closely is off of FIVE meds going on three years. It is worth the investment, instead of bypass surgery or the Merry Go Round of yo-yo failed dieting. Oh my, you move on to a new phase. I’m SO IN TUNE WITH MY BODY!!!!!!! I am also an Optavia Coach and have helped lives change.

[@garconimunster]

I'm 22 years old, 370 pounds, hardcore nicotine addict with high blood pressure, triglycerides, and I'm sure I'm pre-diabetic. I'm also on a CPAP machine. You sir, just won me over. I plan on signing up when the next paycheck hits!

[@innerbeautyfirst]

Grayson G. Hey Grayson. I just read your comment. That is amazing. Congratulations. I am so happy for you. Take lots of pictures and enjoy journaling, as you write down how you start to feel better. 🎊🎊🎊

[@JohnHulett]

Grayson G Grayson, thanks for your gracious comments. I am a health coach with Optavia and can help you with this program. Contact me at [e-mail].

[@genielhowe260]

I appreciate you posting this video. I love how you relayed the message with a positive attitude, while showing the pros and cons of the program.

[@catchingsfamily2784]

Yes - it is expensive, but so is eating out, the grocery store and Dr. hills! My doctor is watching my weight and blood sugar levels. After first reading about it and giving me the green light, she says to keep going as she’s very happy with the improvement in my numbers and so am I!

[@tessior621]

Awesome!!!

[@klassy40sgal]

My friend was on this plan for a year and has transitioned off it. She is now not only maintaining her weight but is also making healthier choices with eating after having 5 kids. She looks great and no longer has to be on medication or have other health issues she had before.

[@tessior621]

I think this is the biggest take off this plan...You learn to make better choices and maintain it even after leaving the program.

[@BrokenPaddleAdventures]

Exactly. @@tessior621

[@MikeJOnes-bs5dq]

Thank you for your thoughts. I have a family history of heart issues and I have fattened up to 285 during Covid. After 1 week on the program I’m down to 275. There were only 2 days I felt hungry. Staying alive and not a burden on my family is worth the $400 a month for the food. Yes is a sales company and expensive but worth it for me so far.

[@swulff8778]

Hi Mike, just spoke with a friend who just started this diet. How are you doing?? Just curious cause I looking into it too

[@moniquehester4940]

Same here Omg I was so unhealthy at a weight of over 300 pounds I’m now down to 219. I no longer have high blood pressure no more Congestive heart failure. I feel amazing and energetic. The Fuelings are very filling. My body had to adjust I was hunger the first few days, then I went into fat burning mode and the hunger left on day 3. I cannot be more grateful for this program. I wanted to live long enough to see my children and my childrens children grow and thrive.

[@tessior621]

Because IT WORKS.

[@MyraFlores]

I personally know of 4 people on this diet they all lost weight and feel great. I will be joining them next week.

[@luchoaragon3697]

​@@MyraFloresis it working for you?

[@kristinarudiger3563]

I have done Weight Watchers, Nutrisystem, spent thousands on 2 separate holistic nutritionists....and I have never been able to take off and keep off the weight. I have now been on Optavia and have lowered my cholesterol, moving towards a healthier BMI and waist circumference. It is the only diet that has offered me hope. I am NEVER hungry. My brain function is clearer than it has been in 10 years, and my energy level is high and consistent. I am a 25 year health ed teacher with a Master of Public Health degree. I can understand where some of your points come from, but your analysis does not properly examine the Habits of Health that accompany the program. There is a very comprehensive transition program and support to Optavia. The Habits of Health book and Lifebook are LIFECHANGING. For someone with insulin resistance and tons of triggers for emotional eating, I finally feel that I have FOUND MY ANSWER! I am drinking more water than ever, NEVER hungry, eating more fish and veggies than ever, and am no longer suffering from sleep apnea, prediabetes and lethargy.

[@gabbyconant4703]

same

[@Insoportable7]

Blessings! I wish you the best!

[@proxyfox-1930]

Thank you so much for the explanation! I started interning at a weight loss clinic recently and one of the clients was using optavia, I had never heard of it and I've been working on nutrition degrees for years. I'll have my masters in Nutrition & Metabolism soon and I hope to become an RD someday.

[@sveabryan9126]

Consider reading Habits of Health by Dr. Wayne Scott Andersen. You’ll likely find there is more “truth about optavia” in his book then I’m this video. And while you may decide that it’s not a good program, at least you will have better insight as to why people are choosing this program.

[@candyc.3163]

My sister in law lost 50 pounds on Optavia and now has switched to the whole food equivalent of the Optavia plan. She’s off all her insulin and BP meds. Was healthier for her. She’s maintained for a year now.

[@samarod234]

Me and my dad did Optavia together in 2019 when I was 18 years old. I never had any disordered eating habits during my childhood whatsoever, but I quite literally developed anorexia and body dysmorphic disorder BECAUSE OF THIS DIET. It has taken me THREE YEARS to repair my relationship with food through counseling, medication, and educating myself about proper nutrition, and even now, I wouldn't say I am 100% recovered. I was overweight when I started this diet, but near the end, I was practically killing myself from how thin I was getting. I was wasting away. I lost 50 pounds within about 4-5 months, but I lost the first 30 pounds or so within the first month and a half, which is definitely not healthy. I not only lost fat, but a significant amount of muscle mass as well. My hair was falling out so much that my hairdresser even noticed. My skin faded to a pale gray and my anxiety and depression worsened the longer I was on the diet. I was in high school at the time, and I was constantly exhausted, constantly shaking due to low blood sugar. I would never recommend that anyone do this. It is an MLM scam, and it is very, very dangerous, especially for young people and teenagers. It's really not worth it at all.

[@pilotswife06]

I KNEW it had to be an MLM. The MLM food companies and diet companies are incredibly predatory!!

[@eaglegirl7]

It looks like you got obsessed losing the weight and losing 50 lbs is a big achievement. You also had the option to stop at any point you wanted, no one forced you to continue. Also, you can become a coach only if you want to, this is not an MLM scam.

[@traciaustinmurdaugh2507]

I have experienced much of these same symptoms... Give, hair loss, muscles gone, afraid to eat, my skin looks like a saggy bagge elephant! But I'm thin 🤔 I stopped this week realizing after my family did research this is not good..

[@rachellee7735]

@@eaglegirl7 how in the world can you read this story and comment so insensitively? What is wrong with you?

[@bettetsouprake4435]

Lost 20 lbs in 3 months. No side effects like those mentioned above. Felt fine, and had good energy, no eating disorders developed but I was an adult over 50 and did not have so much to lose. So sorry for those who have had health problems from OPTAVIA!

[@jillianmoss5627]

Thank god I didn’t watch this video before I began my program!! 😅😅 as a dietician you may have talked me out of it....and then I wouldn’t have the life I have now..50 lbs lighter and feeling better then I ever have!

[@kristinarudiger3563]

This!

[@neverdunnthrifting9315]

Ditto!! I’m down 66lbs since July 14th. This is the most amazing program and journey I’ve ever been on.

[@susanriles1546]

Same. Down 40 lbs in 13 weeks and don’t want to run to my pantry.

[@TACSmom]

I just placed my first order. I won’t watch this video cause I’m excited and I don’t want to ruin that.

[@erics6177]

I lost 75lbs since july eating whole foods bought from aldi and sometimes a regular supermarket if i wanted anything sweet. Spent a lot less than you mlm supporters have. You don't need to spend $400/month on processed foods with additives lile maltodextrin plus dinner to be healthy. On the sweet items on their standard calorie restriction diet, the second item listed is sugar right behind soy protein isolate or whey protein isolate. I eat eggs, bacon, salmon, organic grass fed beef, lots of greens, and i can buy a meal at even a shitty gas station in a pinch. I even use real butter and bacon grease to cook with. Forget your "fuelings" going out for the day. Can't find your plan crap anywhere. Heck i can even make fast food healthier, even though their quality is garbage.

[@vanessajenkins6555]

It was designed by a cardiologist. After my husband's heart attack & surgery his cardiologist looked at the program and said it was the best he'd ever seen for losing weight in a healthy manner. Six months later, my husband is 100lbs lighter, 3 sizes slimmer, and cardio Dr is amazed! Food programs are not for everyone...you have to find what works for you.

[@Nan-59]

That is truly spectacular! I'm on the program, too! My daughter is coaching. I'm so happy for your husband. A person's weight makes a huge difference, health wise!

[@gemil9933]

Let me guess, you sell optivia? 🤣

[@vanessajenkins6555]

@@gemil9933 No😉, being a 24/7 caregiver, I wouldn't have the time or inclination to do so....and people don't "sell" OptaVia. It's a program you either choose to do or not. But it worked for us so I will recommend it as an option to be considered. My husband's surgeon said he should have died from his massive heart attack...we researched and made changes in his diet, exercise & work related stress. We asked our cardiologist to look at it to see if it would be safe to try...he was impressed by it. OptaVia just happened to work for us.

[@paulduval262]

It's a rebranding of MediFast, founded by an anesthesiologist turned greedy businessman.

[@Nan-59]

@@paulduval262 Yup. It's definitely not cheap, but the Optivia brownies keep me from buying & eating a regular pan of brownies.

[@gvhaley3377]

yep, did Optavia - lost great weight, felt great, went "off" the diet and gained all the weight back because I was craving food constantly! Definitely am feeling the whole intuitive eating idea and stopping the dieting madness. Going to try to give up my obsession with weight and just focus on health. Thanks for the support!

[@Nolasusan1]

I'm totally on board with just eating healthy and usig 'intuitive' eating. Our bodies will tell us what we want to eat and usually we are satisfied with our choice. Not having 'food rules' is very helpful!

[@holidayinnexpress2238]

Thank you. Yet this program has been beautifully successful for me. I have lost 45 lbs in 8th months. My energy is amazing. I am able to do many activities with my teen son. I am not hungry at all. My mind has shifted. And my body. I have actually come off of 2 medications. My cholesterol which was in a danger zone. Now I am out of the danger zone and healthier than ever.

[@ellechristie1111]

Congratulations on your success! Wishing you well

[@thebourg]

Me too! I love this program

[@heatherreliford4816]

Me too! Love it! Never hungry , never “running to pantry” ; the cereal is not comparable to ALDI cereal!! The fuelings are perfect and I do know what normal and healthy eating is and will be able to transition easily! If a five and one seems too big of a serving size, she forgot to mention you can split it up during your day! :) healthy fats are key! And water 💧!

[@Kokoro252]

So happy to hear such impressive results come out of this. Congratulations!

[@crystalsliger2026]

I am so proud of you keep it up.

[@MissBe737]

They aren't calling fuelings meals, they are calling them fuelings.

[@nanfrostsfashionfocusstyle6250]

I hate that they are calling food in the boxes they send FUELINGS. It's food. It just bugs me.

[@jcollwacko]

This diet was doctor recommended to my father as a last resort and it worked wonders for him. My mother got OFF of insulin completely. I understand some of the things you're saying but when someone becomes extremely obese they might need extreme measures to combat it and then slowly build back in a normal amount of calories after they are what they're doctor tells them is a "healthy weight".

[@celiachavez9543]

Doctor never going too recommended piece of shit

[@lucindaryan806]

I'm sincerely glad this is helping. The challenge, I believe, will be either staying on this plan indefinitely or trying to incorporate into "normal" eating.

[@kristinawhitlow4761]

Thank you so much for saying this. I am also on the program, and it is doing wonderful things to me too. Especially with my condition (Epilepsy). So, I do very much appreciate you standing up for it too.

[@W1relessRevlution]

I've been on the plan for almost 4 weeks and have lost 20lbs. I don't feel hungry at all. Energy levels have been good. This is a classic example of judging somthing without actually trying it.

[@karinthorsen2304]

Agreed!

[@debrathompson-ramey1477]

I've been on it for 2 months OST about 15 lb but I get hungry at night and when I get hungry I get irritated what should I do?

[@W1relessRevlution]

@@debrathompson-ramey1477 I do a pickle or two. Seems to work for me.

[@tinawelch4753]

Agree

[@salomecarrillo2296]

@@debrathompson-ramey1477 I drink water. I have been on it 10 days and I have lost 10 pounds so far. That is 1 lb per day which is amazing. I love it!!!!

[@DingoTheDemon]

All of these pro-Optavia people in the comments is very telling. My experience with certain diet cultures (more like diet cults) is that people get so wrapped up in them that they consider it a part of their identity, and any criticism about their diet program feels like a personal attack on them. I noticed this a lot in the Noom group I was in, and in the subreddit "1200 is plenty." They are so sure that what they're doing is correct - for them, maybe it is. But they hate it when someone says "well yeah, but that isn't going to work for everyone." I feel like I can never fit in to a health and fitness community if they are all so defensive and insistent about how they're right and everyone else is wrong.

[@BeaVizcarra]

Yes. Very culty behavior in Optavia

[@rootintobeing]

Amen!! The comments are very eye-opening! 😳

[@kellyradtke4885]

People, even dietitians criticize keto diets all the time though. This diet is insane 800-1000 calories is not sustainable or healthy. I'd love to have these optavia cult members check in around 5 years from now to see how long they keep this weight off.... I'd bet it's not many statistically. There are plenty of proven ways to lose and maintain weightloss you can access at your local library. Check out The Diet Fix or listen to the Half Size Me podcast to get started.

[@kimikeclark6873]

@Jessie Jay hey hey now, keto girl here I NOT eff with dairy lol

[@gamingawesomeness222]

They’re all cults. (26m, 350) I am on day 4 as no other diet has gotten me results so far, but my parents pushed this on me, and I saw through it right away. I’ll take what I loss can get but my ultimate plan is to replace the “feelings” with equivalently portioned “real food” and stick to 1500

[@Hanu108]

Thank you for this information. What resonates for me the most is what you shared about being able to eat or sustain this as a way of eating for the rest of your life. I wish my gf did not just start doing this and I don’t want to discourage her at the same Time from working on her health goals.

[@dispatchwolf]

As with any "diet" - the weight loss portion of the plan is low calorie. lean protein, low, good carbs. It is scientifically designed to help you lose weight fast (see Medifast). While losing weight, you also learn new healthy habits - increased water intake, increased activity, increased awareness of where your bad habits started. This video is very misleading and not at all a comprehensive view of the entire plan. I heard nothing here that "proves" this is bad. As with all health/diet changes - DISCUSS with your doctor - don't rely on Internet Opinion.

[@ajbarnett9345]

Angie Schell Medifast got sued over and over for damaging organs. They just change the name. They are going to change the name again. It’s not healthy. It’s deadly.

[@ajbarnett9345]

Angie Schell there is nothing good abjure Optavia. It’s filled with Chemicals like lead. You are eating lead when you eat any of optavias expensive crap. Ask the scientist about that.

[@movielover6840]

It's also not scientific. They were sued about that

[@brookesoares9979]

Optavia bought out Medifast. It’s pretty much the same diet.

[@ajbarnett9345]

Brooke Soares Medifast was not good and sued multiple times and they started optavia. It’s the second or third time they make up a new company when put out if business. MLM diet food. That says it all.

[@princessdoodlebugs]

My sister-in-law is on the diet now and she lost 27 pounds. She has about 10 more pounds to lose.She said she's enjoying it and it's easy for her. I appreciate your video and insight. I guess to each their own.

[@summern8157]

I've known several people who lost a bunch of weight on this...then gained it all back. Strict diets like this don't help you form sustainable healthy habits that fit your lifestyle. And like Colleen said, any diet that tells you not to eat nutritious fruits and veggies should be a red flag. Losing weight really quickly does not mean that a diet is healthy for you! You could eat 500 calories per day and lose an incredible amount of weight in a short amount of time, but it wouldn't be healthy at all! Weight loss is not a good indicator of whether or not your diet is good for your body.

[@ThePedsOT]

If someone gained the weight back after losing with this program, they did not do the whole program. Many people do not do the education part and then it is just a diet. The food part is only the tool that helps get the weight off. To keep it off the other 75% is the reading, journaling and community support that makes the changes lifelong.

[@darylgimbel2127]

All I can tell you is after menopause I gained fat around the middle I never had and for 3 years no matter what I did, cleansing, fasts, whole foods, carbs, all things I did my whole life that kept me lean and strong was not working anymore. This Optavia took all the weight off me in my first month. I only had 8 pounds but that 8 pounds hadn't budged in 3 years. So thank you Optavia. Once you get your optimal weight you do up your calorie income and while youre on the weight loss whether 5/1 or 4/2 your are taught from your coach and community and calls how to cook and provide yourself with healthy meals and healthy habits all around. Its an awesome program and so many people feel more energy, clarity in brain, and overall great health. So I think that says it all. Also they don't call it a meal! It is called a fueling. You fuel your body every 2-3 hours. So you are eating 7 times a day and burning the fat off your body fast. I appreciate your point of view but please be more accurate and knowledgeable before putting something down. It is not for "your entire life" . Your coach teaches you how to eat your own foods. That's all for now.

[@CindaMurphyRealEstate]

I love hearing these young naturally skinny women, that have NEVER had to fight insulin resistance or lose 50 pounds, preach in such a condescending way to people who ACTUALLY had to struggle. A truly good dietitian knows about numerous ways of eating and how they benefit different groups of people. All she knows is HER way. And anyone that dares to look at things differently is a complete freaking idiot. I can’t stand watching this lady.

[@jodikennett1569]

I am more inclined to listen to a dietitian who is actually qualified to speak on this topic, versus a "coach" with ZERO credentials who only cares about making money in their downline.

[@cobrasmom]

A toddler isn’t sitting at a desk working 8 hours a day. Also, when you go through menopause, your metabolism slows way down. This diet works for some people. Can’t put everyone in a box.

[@dreamofmine]

I am on the tail-end of my Optavia journey. I started in April and have started eating real food again last month. Optavia was the only thing that worked for me as far as weight loss - but hear my whole story! I used to work out at the gym regularly, doing classes as well as circuit training. I got stronger, definitely, but not leaner and was still in larger clothes. Several years later, I tried Crossfit. Again, massive strength, that I loved, but no change to my size. I only lost 7 lbs. in the first year of Crossfit. Then a friend of mine got me on Optavia. Within my first 4 weeks, I was down over 10 lbs. I was always hungry, which was weird because my "coach" told me that I was in "starvation mode" before I started, but I don't remember feeling that kind of hunger - all the time. My gut was so messed up!! I had constant gassiness and weird bowl movements like a baby on formula (never a "real" bm). After I got to what I thought was my goal weight (I learned my scale is around 6 lbs off - it's very old), I met with a trainer who is also a fitness nutritionist. She had me slowly switch over to a nutrient-rich diet of real foods (she gave me a menu and measurements), but still eating 5 - 6 times a day, with one splurge meal a week (anything, any amount, once meal a week). I've gone back and forth to the Optavia as I travel and need that convenience, or when I can't pre-prepare my meals. Always, the Optavia gives me gut issues and hunger. The real food diet is better, but it's definitely an adjustment from my "old ways". I'm glad I did the Optavia diet, because I went from a size 12 pushing into a 14 back down to an 8, sometimes 6 (still have a post-partum belly, though, so fitting into clothes is still an issue, but at least I'm where I should be for my height). Would I suggest it to others? Only as a last resort, keeping in mind the trials and issues I had with it. Would I do it again? Only if a real nutritionist's program does not work for me. I do miss the carbs. I haven't had but one small slice of pizza in the last 5 months. Just a taste of Dr. Pepper and sweet tea (my fave). I do miss the fried foods, but I do love my new size. It's hard to know what your body will thrive best on, but take that journey. Go find out. I don't think that excessive hunger and gut wrenching should be along that road, though. That's distress. Good luck.

[@ThePedsOT]

If you were hungry, you weren't doing something right. 5&1 is meant for NO exercise. If you are doing more than a leisurely 20 minutes walk a few times a week, you need something different. Most likely you were not getting enough protein in this program. You probably need to find your coaches coach and ask questions. You shouldn't be feeling the way you describe.

[@dreamofmine]

@@ThePedsOT Oh, I didn't know that. I do find that if I try to stay more on a "meat & veg" diet, I get really bad hunger. I think I need a bit of carbs and fat otherwise all I can think about is when my next meal will be because I'm so hungry. I appreciate your feedback. (And I didn't exercise during my Optavia eating plan days.)

[@ThePedsOT]

@@dreamofmine I wonder if you are eating too many vegetables and not enough meat when you're doing a "meat and veg" "diet". Optavia is about teaching you proper eating habits. The books that come with the program are very helpful too because they explain the mental aspects, help you learn about your own situation and teach you about proper health and the reasons behind why this eating program and life changes are important, set up the way they are and work. Many people who try this are not "all in" and don't experience the program in it's entirety. That is the difference between people like me who have amazing success and people who do it for a while and decide it didn't work or isn't the answer. There is possibly a small percentage of people who this program is truly not for them, although I cannot imagine what type of person that it, but I am forever grateful that I found it and found health.

[@jessicamarriott6550]

I am a coach for Optavia. Clearly Colleen surfed the internet and found pieces of the program to get attention to increase her following. We have 1 MILLION people on the program around the world with weight loss success stories, documented BEFORE AND AFTER photos and shared stories from real people who yoyo dieted their entire life and healthily lost weight on Optavia and have kept it off when you work with a coach. I looked on Colleen's IG account and I see ZERO success stories of weight loss or healthy people living her message. If you (dreamofmine) were hungry all the time there are things coaches can help with eliminating hunger by finding and fine tuning what you are actually doing verses what is recommended. The 2 books supplied with the program were created by a doctor and dietitians. You should have not been hungry all the time. If you were working out more then coaches recommend adding 2 more things into your diet, 1. an amino acid and 2. adding another protein portion to your day. Plus there are snacks you can buy a the grocery store to add to your daily Fuelings & lean and green. Did you communicate often with your coach with your hunger issues? Both my husband and my teen age daughter did the program and lost 30+lbs and now eat 3 meals a day and 3 Fuelings. My husband did the 5&1 and hasn't been this healthy since high school. My daughter did the 4&2, which is 2 lean and greens and 4 Fuelings. All the Fuelings are BALANCED with CARBS, PROTEIN and FAT with 24 vitamins, minerals and probiotics. Optavia said correctly is Opta-via (optimal life/health) is not to be done alone so that no one feels alone, so there is accountability, 90% of people who use Optavia have sustainable health when done with a coach (speaking to clients weekly during weight loss), combined with the weekly Community calls that discuss portions of the book and our private Facebook group to ask questions. There is WAY more to the program as the food portion is only 1/4 of the program because we are a personal growth company to help people get past their reason for over eating, but I feel I have shared enough to balance out what Colleen misinterpreted and address dreamofmine being hungry all the time. Have an Outstanding day, xo.

[@dreamofmine]

@@jessicamarriott6550 ~ I did not exercise during my Optavia eating plan. I did express hunger (and gassiness) to my coach and all she could tell me was that "hunger" is "imagined" and just push through it. She also told me to use gas-x instead of letting me know that it could have been the high soy content giving me issues, and that there are alternative choices without soy. I am only learning the things you are mentioning now, a year after I started my program. Good thing is, I have been able to maintain after working with a trainer and getting coaching on real-food eating. (I grew up on hamburger helper and kool-aid.) Thanks for the information.

[@cody40131]

So i started April 24 of this year. 22 yrs old Male 323lbs I’m going on my second month and I’m down to 280lbs. Now I’ve changed things up on this diet. And i just listen to my body. But it in a sense has helped. I’ve just made this diet my own. And it has really helped. Key thing is LISTEN TO YOUR BODY NOT YOUR BELLY. Make healthy choices.

[@sherry7602]

I tried this diet as a friend was a coach. Within two days I was having reactive hypoglycemia from the extremely low calorie content. I was told I was just detoxing which is total BS. My BMR is over 2,000. 800-1000 is a starvation diet. Thank you for posting the truth about this diet. Wish I saw it before I tried it.

[@amyjacobson9114]

Truth!

[@shaeharper5652]

I went through a detox from day 2 thru 5 from the 5 and 1 plan. I was have foggy brain, muscle pain/weakness, headaches, sore throat, etc. I finally pulled out of it. I kept with it for over 100 days and only 5 pounds of weight loss to go. I have never been diagnosed with hypoglycemia, but I know I am borderline. This diet does highlight this issue! I like this video because I realize that being in tune what is healthy for you is more important than following rules to the point to where u r scared to eat. That’s just no way to live!

[@salomecarrillo2296]

I love this programe. I have lost 1 lb per day. I am down 11 pounds so far and I love it. I guess everyone is different

[@saphire1020]

I just started 4 days ago and I could not peg my symptoms down. It’s always drink more electrolytes. This is what is happening to me and it’s scary as heck!

[@ABC-rg4li]

It's supposed to fix your metabolism. Thats what helps your weight and health. 5:1 is NOT formulated for workouts, it also is formulated with a lot of vitamins, probiotics, and protein. This is NOT LONG TERM. it's for as long as you need it. Then you back off. They say to EAT ALL HIGHER CARB VEGETABLES AFTER YOU REACH YOUR GOAL

[@seekingtruth1110]

Why wouldn't you want to work and move your body? We are made for movement.

[@ABC-rg4li]

@@seekingtruth1110 because your metabolism is just as important. You need to establish healthy diet along with physical activity if you lose weight by massive workouts alone you'll need to keep those uo.for the rest of your life.

[@seekingtruth1110]

@@ABC-rg4li I don't do massive workouts as I simply don't believe our body needs them. I do daily activities such as walking and yard work. I do use weights but not more than 5 lbs. I'm a woman by the way. Some take me for a man because of my name. Silly I Know but they do.

[@ABC-rg4li]

@@seekingtruth1110 yeah working out is great! Its just when you're first trying to lose a lot of Weight the metabolism fix will help you most because it's a life style change and you're body won't get used to work you might jot be able to keep up on. But sounds like you're at a healthy activity level! But the massive weigh loss is for quicker weightloss. I tried every workout for months. Didn't lose weight till this program and lost 30lbs in 3 months and now I didn't follow it all summer and kept it off. Now I'm restarting. But it proved my metabolism was reset and I can now do different things and see results

[@seekingtruth1110]

@@ABC-rg4li well I'm happy for you if that's what works. I really do not work out a lot. I follow the Biblical Nutritionist on youtube. I enjoy the foods because they are not processed with added stuff our bodies don't need. To each their own though. By the way, I am 54 and have been in menopause for a long time now with an autoimmune disorder. I do not believe in putting anything into my body that is foreign such as what goes into processed foods. Read the labels and look up what you don't understand.

[@sherrryann]

I lost 50 pounds on it but eventually got off of it because of quality issues/concerns with the poor & concerning appearance of their fuelings as of 2021. In addition to it totally changing your body's process in a weird out of body experience way, almost every fueling is chalked full of soy (they use soy protein in the fuelings) so I literally bled like half of the month bc of the overload in estrogen creation. It was rough... But mostly/largely effective... -But I could never get down to my "ideal" weight of 155 to transition away from the fuelings & do just the small 100 calorie grocery store alternatives plus a lean & green, instead, so after plateauing in the 170's for the indefinite future, I just said... this isn't worth it... & my coach basically said I must be doing something wrong or different, which I took offense to, & then the poor quality packaging issues started happening & I said nope that's it CANCEL. & I completely shut it off/down.

[@nanfrostsfashionfocusstyle6250]

I don't like all the soy either. That is bothering me. I think I'm one month and done.

[@garconimunster]

I've gotten to a point where I don't feel like I have choice, i have to do something as drastic as this. I'm 22 years old and I'm out of control. I'm so tired of just existing. I want to live. I want to be able to go out and hike with my friends, go on a roller coaster again. I want to meet someone and fall in love, and I just can't do that in my current state. I just don't have a choice.

[@ColleenChristensen]

Grayson G is highly recommend meeting with a registered dietitian if you feel you need more support and guidance ❤️❤️❤️

[@erincampbell9608]

Grayson. I used to feel some of those same things. I totally hear you. My son was also 22 when he was at an all time high of 318 pounds. He has changed his life and he has actually fallen in love. I understand why you feel like nothing will work for you. Have you already started the program? Do you have a health coach yet? If not, get in touch with me if you are still looking for a way to change your life. I am here and I can help.

[@shannoncampbell2017]

Hey Grayson. That Comment from Erin Campbell was from me. She is my daughter and must have logged onto my computer.

[@garconimunster]

Erin Campbell it’s no big deal

[@mellapella]

I tried it 2 years ago and I was starving! I am 68 and just lost 30lbs by eating 2 balanced meals a day and fasting for 16 hrs per day! If you want to lose your hair and mind then you’ll do great on this diet. No carb diets are NOT healthy. Eat what you like 2xs per day and Stop! Control your eating habits without denying yourself or you will eventually fail and want your favorite foods again. I’d rather control the times I eat other than what I can eat. I’m perfectly healthy now, no meds and feeling better than ever!

[@carolinalazcano21]

When you are overweight, lowering calories and carbs is good. This program is a good start for weight loss. Increases self esteem, motivates and encourages self control. All are wins for an overnight person. Thank you for your criticism. We don't have the same problems. So not getting deterred.

[@josephhardaway3]

I agree with you 100% .

[@Awesumpye25]

It worked really well for my mom!

[@ellenguarisco7638]

Thank you for this video, Colleen! I so agree that this diet is NOT sustainable long term. I learned this as a Certified Health Coach. I have a friend who is on this, and I'm curious to see how long she can keep it up. I knew someone else who was on a similar program (maybe Optivia), lost 40 pounds, and when she was done, gained every bit back and then some. So, glad you weighed in on this.

[@teresamorgan5738]

I am sorry that she gained all her weight back. I am a new Optavia coach and while I am still learning the program, I have always felt like lifestyle changes are for a lifetime. If she gained all of her weight back, that tells me that she probably went back to her old ways of eating. Any nutritional plan should be looked at as a lifestyle change. Optavia teaches people to eat every 2 to 3 hours. You can actually do that with regular food, but must watch the glycemic index numbers. They really make a difference. Best of luck to your friend

[@Happylivingguru]

This is not something you " keep up" this is something you learn to change your life with if you do just a little research as a dietitian and a person of health you would really see the beauty in this program. It's so different from anything I've ever seen and to cut it down and never have tried it. Yourself is the first problem the amazing blood sugar control that I have from this program has changed my life so before you start rattling off non-truths, you should really try it for yourself.

[@oliviab5795]

Optimal Health is defined in the published books. Clearly your homework was surface not detailed. It's based on the habits of health not just a diet.

[@BeaVizcarra]

Published books? Lady there’s a ton of books that don’t support this type of diets 🤣

[@bobbywilliamson8787]

@@BeaVizcarra Optavia has a published book... educate yourself before you troll everyone trying to get healthier, be supportive. Its ok if someone does something that other people wont do....

[@macreal65]

I lost about 20 lbs and have been on it for less than a month. I know that can be good and this lifestyle both physically and financially isn't sustainable. But it has taught me one thing if not anything. It taught me to space out my calories throughout the day instead of one big meal, like I used to do, and buy the best products that you can afford to buy and you can do this on your own if you really wanted to do it. I'm got a month left of fueling left, but after this batch I'm done.

[@Sunsun-ev2xd]

I’m glad you made this video , this is setting people up for a unhealthy mentality of eating 800-1000 calories is starving the body and ruining the metabolism

[@Sunsun-ev2xd]

Oh good look with your hair falling out with that low of calories

[@traceygregory9519]

Over half the people that go on it are eating fast food and pure junk so it’s a step toward Weightloss and healthier eating.

[@bikerbabe966]

Thank you for this video! So many people in my office are doing this plan now and I was starting to consider it. Not anymore though.

[@pateckstein7991]

I lost 8 lbs in a week , I do construction and I feel fine , I`m pretty pumped about Optavia , first diet I`ve tried that really works , after you lose the weight you want to lose you go back to eating regular healthy foods , I know a guy that did this two years ago and him and his wife can`t say enough about how great this is. I reckon as they say "The proof is in the pudding"

[@steveblack7923]

They're telling you its great because they are making money off other people. The average person does not maintain their weight. Come back in a year and tell us how you did on it. At worst, this starvation diet will ruin your metabolism and you'll be dependent on these products for the rest of your life.

[@pateckstein7991]

@@steveblack7923 I`ll let you know how it goes. The couple I know that bragged it up are good friends of mine that aren`t trying to make a quick buck off of people.

[@Darkskinyaya]

Hello I want to start it my friend did and lost weight as well, but I’m not getting any respond

[@gquesa]

@@steveblack7923 Thank you Steve for stating this. I know folks who are "coaches" and their life is so "wonderful" and they've lost SO much weight....BECAUSE THEY GET PAID! Holy cow.

[@whitneygarner4107]

@@Darkskinyaya Reach out to Brian and Vicki Martin on Facebook - they're fantastic!

[@crystalsliger2026]

I started the Optavia 3 months ago and only needed to loose 10 pounds so I lost that in the first week.I gained so much more than I lost. It helped with my hormones levels, my energy skyrocketed and I feel wonderful. You learn how to transfer into a healthy lifestyle and how to eat correctly while adding more carbs and calories!!!! ITS AN AMAZING PROGRAM.

[@itsnow385]

"I gained so much more than I lost." You don't mean weight right?

[@MsSogo100]

Once you get use to fueling up, you continue that process. This program allowed my blood sugar to level and keep cravings at bay! It is a wonderful program, and I have lost 85 lbs. within a year. So sorry it works!

[@mantra4ia]

Thanks for the info, I like the transparency which explains a lot more detail then my initial introduction to the plan.

[@ThePedsOT]

But this person has obviously not tried the plan, so how transparent can you be when you don't truly know it?

[@sroot1210]

FYI ... It also seems to be MLM based. Meaning, you go on the plan, share your transformation, become a “coach” and bring others into the plan, etc. I’m guessing as you become a coach you get discounted rates on the fueling supplies. While IMO all diet plans are a way to get our money, this recruitment setup doesn’t sit well with me (in truth, no MLM plans do). Thanks for the video!

[@ColleenChristensen]

Sheryl Root I’ve heard HORROR stories about the coaching side of it! Hurts my heart

[@shannoncampbell2017]

Actually , there are two main differences between us and the MLM that you are talking about. First, we, as coaches are not required to buy the food at all. Second, If we do choose to buy the food, and most of us do, we do not get a discount. We pay the same as our clients. Also, we don't need to keep any kind of stock on hand for clients, or deliver food to them. Oh yeah, one other thing that I forgot. We, as coaches, don't actually sell food. Optavia sells food. as a coach, I don't really sell anything. Yes, I do get paid based on orders of my clients, but it's not like that. I never feel the need to encourage clients to purchase anything. It's more about helping people. I just get paid to help people. It's actually pretty cool!

[@meredithpost1162]

I've been on Optavia for six months now. I have had many issues that no one in Optavia is willing to address. The thing that disturbs me the most is the induction into the occult with their "habits of health" zoom calls! These videos don't actually give tools to healthy choices, they only stuff satanic ideology down your throat!

[@steveblack7923]

@@shannoncampbell2017 You're a cult-member. Stop. You get paid when your "clients" order food from the company. You are incentivized to sell products to these people and to keep them dependent on them "for life".

[@shannoncampbell2017]

@@steveblack7923 I also own a bakery and I get paid when people buy our bread and other baked goods that we make. That is kind of how the world works. Most of us earn money providing goods or services to others. After we earn said money, we spend it on other goods and services that we need. I am not is place in my life right now where I am going to be a full time coach. Maybe someday, but now now. I have another full time family business. I really don't look at it as building a team. Some do though. I look at it as helping people get healthy. It's so wonderful!

[@Hastanamaste]

I’m on my 3 rd week of Optavia and love it. In 3 more weeks I’ll transition into the 4 and 2. I’m learning a lot about my cravings and poor eating habits.

[@celiachavez9543]

Check your blood optavia omost kill me it meke your iron low amd lots other vitamins

[@bm7654]

Agreed, vitamins and minerals are always smart to do.

[@JohnHulett]

1211 days now using using the physician led Optavia Habits of Health Transformation Program and I remain at my target weight.

[@roseannesaraceno4784]

SAME!

[@Franklinmoney]

I’ve been on Optavia for 4 months. The first two months were great. The last two months I hardly lost anything. What I find out was that the soy in the fuelings were kicking out my thyroid medicine and I became hypothyroid. I wish these coaches would learn a little more about metabolic issues.

[@Parkourred3]

Not to mention extreme low calorie diet protocols will also down regulate your metabolism function over time by themselves.

[@ilyseaugust7514]

@@Parkourred3 yes true. Here's some information on algae which I always try and teach. The number of 'essential' amino acids depends on how you classify them, but it is always at LEAST 9.... So rather than go into all the long details, there are 'about' 9 amino acids that HAVE to come from diet; all others can be created by your body. However, to do so, you need a balanced diet rich in micronutrients, so even non-essential amino acids are useful. The real issue is that most protein sources are 1. Incomplete, offering only a few essential AAs; and 2. Most sources are extremely long, complex amino acids chains which are difficult to actually extract from the food source. 3. Complete, whole food sources of essential amino acids are few. Edible microalgae are some of the best, most easily assimilated sources because the amino acid chains are highly desirable short peptides. 4. Of the 20 amino acids in your body's proteins, nine are essential to your diet because your cells cannot manufacture them: histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valin 1. we need all the good sources of protein that we can get. Did you know that 1 gram of algae is 60% protein?!! 5. Body is just that, algae, but not just any algae. It is organic wild edible blue green algae loaded with antioxidants, amino acids, minerals, essential fatty acids,etc.

[@moniquehester4940]

Hi I’m On the plan. My coach had me set aside my non soy fuelings to eat later in the day time. She made sure I knew to consume the soy free fuelings 45 minutes to an hour after taking my thyroid medication. I’m sorry for your experience. My coach was pretty knowledgeable. Thankfully.

[@tracylee193]

They aren’t coaches, they are simply sellers.

[@PeiPeisMom]

I love this plan. My blood sugar is stable finally, and my LDL is on the retreat without any supplements or prescriptions. So I'm loving it, personally. I recommend it.

[@bm7654]

With regards to vitamins/minerals, I feel they are always a good idea, especially d3, bc you can't get what you need from food bc most soil is deficient in nutrients.

[@rosiechristmann5371]

On the program 4 months now and lost 35 lbs. No other program or plan has ever helped me and I feel fabulous!! Lots of energy and a doctor (not a dietician) created this wonderful program. It’s not a diet. It’s a program that is scientifically proven to work. I don’t go hungry. I don’t crave carbs. I am satisfied and I don’t run to the pantry or fridge. Listen to Dr Anderson’s you tube videos explaining the details of the program.

[@lilywallahs-madeira6115]

Good luck when you get back to eat normal food!

[@heidinelson7858]

Do you have a video with what you do suggest for life long eating habits? I’m so not interested in logging my food either.

[@henrymartyn]

Just started Optavia. 1st week lost 10lbs. While you can’t maintain that weight loss, it helped me restart from a great foundation to eat healthier long term.

[@teflo2]

As in my comment above people, including this textbook "nutritionist" can't criticize without trying it herself. As much criticism as the Atkins Diet got, I lost 55 lbs in 3 months and kept it off over 30 years and I couldn't afford lots of beef and fatty meat like the rumors suggest. I ate mainly fish and chicken....baked! I've gained back twenty pounds in the last 4 years from cruising and not watching what I eat like I should. My husband went on the South Beach Diet which pretty much is the same as the Atkins Diet with more carbs after the first two weeks, and he lost 30 lbs. A textbook skinny nutritionist can't speak from experience, only from a textbook. Those who have tried weight management programs with success can speak from experience and no, many participants don't gain it all back. I didn't gain it all back, nor did my husband. The last thing people need in their diets are grains and dairy, but this textbook lady will tell you that you need them. That's the SAD unhealthy pyramid. That's why so many people have gut problems, allergies, IBS, MS and so many other autoimmune conditions. The medical profession is after the almighty dollar. I say do your own research.

[@JohnHulett]

1211 days now using using the physician led Optavia Habits of Health Transformation Program and I remain at my target weight.

[@elizabetht6901]

I just started this diet, an the food it give you filling is only the first day that is a little uncomfortable,. But yes I have concerns about the ingredients becouse they actually give more energy and I take all the vitamins that I find, and never has given me this lift that I feel now.

[@Great2BATennesseeVol]

So thankful for you, Colleen, and this review.

[@teresahart2987]

I have been on this program for a year and I feel so good! My mind is clearer and I am sleeping so much better! This lady really doesn't know what the heck she is talking about. She needs to do more research! This program has helped millions of people lose weight! It's not a diet! It's a lifestyle change.

[@wackaer25]

you're only saying this cause you're.. most definitely a coach. your coach recruited you to be a coach and now you're gonna be a shill for the company too. The point is, the weight loss is not sustainable.. eating that low calories is not good, and you don't need to pay someone a shit ton of money per month to lose weight. you can go keto and lose the same weight youre just not tied to buying shitty products from a multi level marketing scam like octavia. youre gonna gain all those lb back as soon as you stop octavia.

[@seekingtruth1110]

This food IS PROCESSED GARBAGE! She knows her stuff, you however, do not!

[@corycraft3701]

@@seekingtruth1110 I have been on for a month and get severe cramps and diarrhea everytime I eat the fuelings. I have lost 47 lbs but the pain and inconvenience is t worth it!

[@seekingtruth1110]

@@corycraft3701 oh wow. That doesn't sound good at all. Is it a lack of nutrients?

[@corycraft3701]

@@seekingtruth1110 I have no clue...it is awful though

[@KathyWasden]

You have obviously never tried this program. I have been on it for a year and a half and am down 180 lbs from my highest weight. At first I was skeptical at seeing the total calories, having tried low calorie diets in the past and failed at them. This one, however, is different. You eat every 2-3 hours so you don't really have a chance to get hungry, and the fuelings have a great balance of nutrients plus vitamins and minerals, so comparing a $3 fueling to cheaper boxed cereal is really not a fair comparison because you don't get anywhere close to the same level of nutrition. If you add in the fact that you don't buy as many groceries, and in my case don't stop for fast food any more, my monthly food bill actually went down. Eating one meal a day that you prepare yourself is a great way to teach portion control and good food choices while still providing the convenience of pre-packaged bars and shakes for the rest of the day. The consumption of 800-1000 calories is only meant for the weight-loss phase. If you don't have weight to lose, pick another program. If you do, burning your own fat makes up the difference. So saying you are only eating enough calories to sustain a toddler is not a valid argument - a toddler is growing. In my case, I have plenty of stored energy in the form of fat and need to burn it to become healthy. After the first 3-4 days of adjustment to the program, I have not been hungry. One amazing benefit you didn't mention is how eating small meals every 2-3 hours helps regulate your blood sugar. I went from pre-diabetic to normal blood sugar pretty quickly and it has remained solidly in the normal range. I am off most of my medications. I have tons more energy than I ever did on any other low-calorie diet or even the non-dieting phases of my life when I was not eating healthy. The fuelings have enough carbs to avoid the keto brain-fog, so even though the lean and green meal is very low carb, the whole diet has just the right amount. And you didn't even mention the other parts of the program such as the educational materials that help you transform your mind as well as your body, or the community support, or the personal coach that is included with the program.

[@ChamberOfHearts]

I agree!! I lost 100 pounds in six months. Took three months off to maintain. I started again 3 weeks ago and I’m already down 15 pounds. There’s that entire book by Dr.Anderson I believe that explains it all. A lot of details about the program are missing from this review. I have had great success in keeping the weight off even when I eat normally.

[@danacook8605]

Amazing! I start this program in a few days

[@kimberlyjordanrdcdecsowm1294]

Thats awesome you lost weight, however she makes the point that our bodies need more than 800-1000 calories a day. yes a toddler is growing and needs more, but as adults we need enough to sustain our bodies. The biggest issue I have (as a dietitian, diabetes education and certified board specialist in obesity and weight management) is that this program is not teaching you healthy eating for when you can no longer afford their products. For diabetes you need healthy carbs to maintain blood sugars. not only am I an educator but I'm also a type 1 diabetic so I know what I'm talking about for that. Low calorie restrictions work for fast weight loss but as she said, can you eat this way the rest of your life? for 99% of people the answer will be no. You can lose just as much weight by eating healthy, cutting out fast food (like you did) and making your own "fuelings" to eat small meals every 2-3 hours. Thats what most people dont realize. They also dont realize that research has proven we need at least 120g healthy carb for proper brain function. so low to no carb diets are not healthy. we need over all balance not restrictions. If you want some chocolate go for it, pick a small piece of dark chocolate instead of king sized snickers. Meet with a dietitian for guidance.

[@angierennie9078]

@@kimberlyjordanrdcdecsowm1294 - regarding your biggest issue, “that this program is not teaching you healthy eating for when you can no longer afford their products”, you must have missed the rest of the program. There are different stages, & the purpose is help wean you off Optavia foods. One learns to not only incorporate healthy portions & choices, but eventually how to do it completely without their packaged food. You start on the 5&1 (5 packaged foods, 1 Lean & Green), then as you get closer to goal weight, transfer to 3&3, & eventually to eating completely on your own. The workbook is a game changer - it helps educate about foods & metabolism, plus the most important factor for most of us who are overweight - the emotional why’s of my eating habits. Not only does one learn portion control, you learn emotional control & mindfulness. Thanks for reading. Good health to you!

[@brianbrister]

You have said so many things in here that obviously show that you haven't done enough research. I've lost 145 pounds on one of the programs and my doctor said "Whatever you're doing, keep doing, keep doing it! This is the healthiest you've ever been!" Also, the things you're doing on program you do until you're reach your health goal, while learning how to eat healthy and then you transition to Whole Foods again. Optavia also recommends that you partner with your medical provider to determine your healthy weight. I also do not find myself hungry like you're saying I will be. I was for the first couple days, but I haven't after that. 13 months in and I couldn't be happier.

[@anti1training]

Losing weight, does not mean healthy

[@ajbarnett9345]

People starve themselves to lose weight. Is it healthy? The doctors I know said don’t use optavia and eat sensibly and healthy. Optavia is putting unhealthy ingredients in their food. It’s pretty sad that people are so ignorant they have to pay a fortune to lose weight. Eating healthy, whole,unprocessed foods was around before Medifast/optavia. This hoax may make you lose weight, but it’s not healthy.

[@anti1training]

@@ajbarnett9345 You are correct! Congratulations, you have earned my respect!

[@brianbrister]

Losing weight absolutely does not mean healthy, but I am and my doctors is so amazed and has taken me off of all of my medications due to the weight I lost. I will never say that Optavia is for everyone, but it was absolutely for me. Also, Optavia doesn't put unhealthy ingredients in their food. Just by eating their fuelings, you get all 24 vitamins and minerals, and extra serving of vitamin D and a probiotic. There are a number of doctors, nurses nutritionists and dieticians who became coaches with Optavia because they believed so much in what Optavia is doing.

[@ajbarnett9345]

Brian Brister you may have lost weight but you didn’t lose weight healthy.

[@gregneedham389]

This is bs. There is a transition phase after the Weight loss phase where you transition back to regular meals. I've battled weight all my life. This is the easiest way to lose weight I have found I'm 3werks in on the plan and have lost over 17 pounds. Couldn't be happier with Ootavia.

[@rickheredia4560]

She is spreading misinformation on a program she know less than nothing about. And she believes she’s a dietitian lol

[@miranda.currier]

So I did a little digging on her credentials, as one should with any provider before listening to advice on social media. I encourage anyone to do that. Her background checks out- take a look at her LinkedIn, and you’ll see that she is in Michigan. As of 2014, Michigan repealed licensure requirements for dietitians and nutritionists, and they follow the education and experience requirements for the Commission on Dietetic Registration. This means that she has completed the education and experience for accreditation. are you a registered dietitian? If not, you have nothing to back up your statement. She absolutely knows what she’s talking about, whereas the guy who started Optavia was NOT trained in dietetics and nutrition. Just because you disagree doesn’t mean she doesn’t know what she’s talking about or that her information is misinformation.

[@ThePedsOT]

@@miranda.currier so an MD doesn't know what a body needs. Maybe you should do your research. When we say she doesn't know what she is talking about, we mean she does not know the program. I have lost 135 pounds on this program and feel wonderful. I am healthier than I have EVER been. There are transition phases to get back to a more normal easy of eating that sustains Optimal health. The weight loss phase is just too get you to your goal in a controlled manner while you learn to adopt healthy habits to continue for a lifetime.

[@miranda.currier]

@@ThePedsOT A general MD doesn't receive the *in-depth dietetics and nutrition* education and experience that an RD has to go through in order to be accredited. Just because someone has an MD at the end of their name doesn't mean that they're a good one! I DID do my research into Colleen, Dr. Wayne Andersen, and the Optavia program; just because it's probably not the research you would do doesn't mean I'm wrong. It's wonderful that you have achieved your goals and feel great and healthy. There are definitely ways to do exactly what Optavia is doing without shelling out $$$ on highly processed foods or becoming a "coach"! The coaches in Optavia don't actually have the correct training necessary to advise their clients on their health; that should only be done by one's dietician or primary care provider!!! I would NOT trust someone who calls themselves a "health coach" from an MLM company that is a health-based business who does not have the credentials to advise me on MY health. Because I HAVE done my research, I am very wary of (and will speak out against) MLM companies that make health claims.

[@ThePedsOT]

@@miranda.currier we do not advise anyone on their health. We actually refer people back to their physician to get approval before beginning this program. Whether or not they do that, is up to them. I have had clients who reported increased difficulty with controlling their blood sugars (they also admitted to drinking a milkshake because someone from the office got them for everyone), but rather than point out the obvious, I sent them materials about the various programs to share with their physician and suggested questions to ask about whether they could remain on program with modifications or if it was best to stop the program. Coincidentally, that individual did not continue with the program and after I made suggestions (based off of information from the dieticians we can ask questions of for this reason) and they chose not to follow any of the suggestions, I did not badger her or bother her any further. I only offered support and let her know that her wellbeing was my concern, whether or not she remained on program and I wished her well. That is who I am. I am not every coach out there, and I am sure there are some coaches that are not great. I just know that I am trying to help people and this program is offering me the opportunity to do that in a way I had not done previously and I find enjoyable. For this, the company shares with me some of their profit. This is just a different form of compensation for my services. As for processed food... Do you grow all of your own food, prepare it all from scratch with nothing you get from another source? If the answer to that is no, you eat processed food also. People love to throw around catch phrases and "processed food" is one of them. These foods are all natural. There are no artificial ingredients, so I do not understand what the problem is. As for ways to do exactly what Optavia is doing without shelling out $$$. Great, you do that and I do this and we are all happy. No need to criticize me in what I am doing. I happen to disagree (as one who has tried many other things and either flat out failed or hit a plateau and struggled to stick with something that was not working). This program has helped me exceed my goals and expectations and did not cost me much different that what I was spending on food prior to signing up. It was just a shift in where I was spending the money. I am beyond excited about what I have achieved with this program and I want to share that excitement with others. I want to help others the way I have been helped. This takes time and effort and for that, Optavia compensates me. I do not hide that fact. Coaching people in this program is a "job" just like many others. Some jobs require extensive training, some require experience etc. You might be surprised at how many jobs do not require any knowledge of what to do until you get there. At least with this, I understand how to be successful, because I have experienced it. Optavia has chosen to reward individuals who work hard while benefitting from their products rather than spend money on buildings, electricity, marketing and other overhead. It is just a different business model than other companies that do the same thing. Different does not equal wrong (I think you pointed that out above).

[@malaikaquick1094]

I did this diet (which they adamantly deny that it is) and I unfortunately found out the hard way that everything you’ve said is true. After stopping the diet, I gained weight because my body was being starved. And everyone is right, it’s a MLM. It’s not about willpower, it’s biology.

[@burninglegion4327]

Sounding very weak

[@ibrahimgure1658]

Burning Legion 😂😂😂😂

[@KollegeKay]

That is how they keep you on their "program"... Keep your body starving and continue buying their products. They get to continue because they sell products that aren't real food, I'd rather eat cardboard. 👍

[@ChamberOfHearts]

I lost 100 pounds in 6 months on optavia last year!! I ate out 6 times a month, enjoyed my holidays, and so on. You’re not supposed to but I did. I took three months off to maintain and eat regular but healthy food. I just started again 3 weeks ago and I’m already down 15 pounds! Low carb is the way to go. Some people can eat a lot of carbs with body types like the woman in this video. I have had trouble with my weight since the third grade. If I eat more than 130 total carbs a day I am gaining weight. Optavia is 80-100 total carbs a day which is a lot compared to more extreme options like keto. Also fruit and certain veggies are higher in carbs which is why they suggest in the weight loss phase you don’t eat them. This is just common sense lol although I still eat berries and oranges. I don’t know everything about optavia but it worked for me after nothing else did. I honestly had a hard time getting all my food in. It’s so filling once you get past the first week. Plus I know I can transition back into normal healthy eating once I’m done☺️

[@alyssarazo2650]

100lbs in 6 months?????? So crazy. I’d like to ask you maybe we could exchange emails? I have questions lol

[@ajbarnett9345]

Did your doctor suggest that you lost too much too fast?

[@jaymanmason2444]

100 in 6 months is extremely unhealthy

[@an-qo6by]

why did u go back on it?

[@crowmedicine3890]

It is NOT common sense. There are differences between carbs. Anyone, any DR. Or health professional that tells you not to eat fruit should not call themselves a Dr. or medical professional. It's that simple.

[@vanessajunkins2351]

When I was in my late 20s, I went on this plan, which used to be called Medifast. It was the same concept as it is now. I was able to lose somewhere around 25-30 lbs but I was afraid to do it long term because at some point I was going to want to eat normal food again and didn't want to gain all the weight back. (I did and then some, over and over again for the next 15+ years, so there's that). After being on the program, I switched to Weight Watchers and lost more weight. I developed IBS after doing this plan in addition to so many different allergies and food intolerances. I truly feel like this program with its restrictions and odd ingredients wrecked my gut forever because I never had the problems with eating before I did this program. Now here I am watching your videos and trying to pick up the pieces!

[@lorriebundy366]

So what plan do you recommend. Please post specific information like optavia provides. If 2 lbs per week is a safe rate, isn't that 1000 calories less per day? So if 2000 calories per day is maintenance, then 1000 per day sounds right, right?

[@om-boi]

Best this to do is 1. drink a lot of water 2. whole food plant based diet (stop eating animal flesh, animal secretions, animal ovulation) 3. quit soda, added sugar, alcohol, cigarettes, and other obvious unhealthy stuff we shouldn't do 4. exercise regularly 5. good sleep schedule

[@brittneemiller7778]

This is just about as effective as telling a meth addict to just stop doing meth. If it was that simple then millions upon millions of people wouldn't be torturing themselves and wasting billions of dollars in the attempt to lose weight. It's okay to not understand addiction, how could a non addict even begin to understand? It's not, however, okay to belittle or downplay the experience of those who are struggling and desperate.

[@emilynash4529]

I actually function better on my optavia 5 & 1 plan.

[@marianmiller9948]

me too!!

[@dawnessick]

Me too! I love it

[@mrskrobs]

How long have you been on the plan?

[@marianmiller9948]

One month. I havent had this much energy in 30 years. I've lost 8 lbs

[@nauidiver227]

@@marianmiller9948 how much do you weigh now?

[@tingting6889]

I am on it now and stopped at this video to just check it. Just a few points. There are quite a bit of carbs in the feulings and the one lean and green meal is just to train you psychologically on how to cook healthy food. I also have a coach for the cost and my particular coach happens to be a registered nurse as well. Only for my first four days did I have any unpleasant symptoms and I actually had worse symptoms when I was on a keto diet. It is a drastic measure to create a calorie deficit that big but the RDIs for calories and macros is based on reccomendations for people who are of normal weight and need to just eat better. Sometimes a calorie deficit is prescribed to get weight off fast in order to avoid progression of major disease. Also you are not supposed to exercise on this plan. There are multiple optavia plans for different lifestyles. The 5&1 works the fastest but they also have 4&2 and then finally 3&3. The program works on psychology and making better decisions. The science of this program are to put you into mild ketosis while supplementing your muscles with lots of protein to prevent muscle breakdown. Also it’s not all about calories and the need for too many calories can sometimes be in your head. I have had stable blood sugars throughout.

[@Janelegant]

I'm so sorry...as someone that has had over 100 lbs. to lose, I can tell you that I do not understand what normal eating looks like. While I understand that OPTAVIA 5&1 doesn't seem sustainable; it's created to get people down to a health weight. What I learned from my first week is that my portion sizes were so out of control. I'm going on week 2 of the OPTAVIA 5&1 plan and I can say I am not hungry and I do not feel deprived. I believe this is because the fuelings provided are a really good mix of what my body needs in order to sustain itself and burn the fat my body has in order to provide my body with the energy it needs. I have not had cravings. While in quarantine I don't have to think about going out to eat or parties. In order to enjoy the parties, holidays, etc. I will need to make a decision to go "off" plan and then get right back on or when I go "off" plan, choose the healthy choices I am learning when creating my lean & green meals.

[@eastwingmb]

And yet, I am on week SIX, have not lost significant weight, have lost only ONE HALF INCH at my waist and have never stopped feeling starved all the damn day. The only time I am not thinking about OMG I am famished is when I am ASLEEP. I am furious about what I consider to be a massive and expensive FAIL.

[@Andria520]

Melinda Bates are you drinking enough water? Weighing you proteins and veggies out? Counting up all your extras? Have you talked to your coach?

[@deshia1471]

I completely agree with you. My sister bought this program for me and I started it without doing my research. I'm literally drained because of the extreme calorie deprivation. So much so that I've not been feeling well. I'm going to start adding more calories today with vegetables or something.People keep saying how much weight you lose on this program and you will lose weight.... but you're literally slowly starving to death so if course youll lose weight.. I'm sure that once you try to switch to a more sustainable diet...you'll gain it back because your metabolism is screwed up.

[@shaeharper5652]

I am on day 105 and still have 5 pounds to go. I keep being told we r not supposed to be hungry, but I have been! When I add some 2-3ozs protein throughout the day, it does help w that. We have to listen to our bodies!

[@DrChristopherMueller]

You're wrong in every way sorry babe

[@tessior621]

Not true. Such false information.

[@tessior621]

@@shaeharper5652 So stop it. Don't do it. No one is forcing you to do this plan.

[@dwighttadlock6947]

I follow the plan and I've lost 17# ,I don't get hungry like you say and there is plenty of success examples of Optivia.

[@kulaniwarner2424]

Are you a coach or working for the MLM?

[@ashleighhandley6826]

@@kulaniwarner2424 it's not an MLM

[@beckydawson7697]

@@ashleighhandley6826 Yes. They are. mlmcompanies.org/optavia/

[@victoriaholland877]

Just started yesterday and I am not hungry at all. I actually feel great. You drink a lot of water on the plan and for the learn and green there are alot of options. The fuelings actually taste good as well.

[@dawncarrasco8320]

The fuelings should not cost as much as they do especially since they don't have much nutrition in them at $400.00 month. As much as I love Dr. A. He's def making a lot of money from this.

[@diannemaurer1688]

Yeah, when I get my box, I always imagine what the contents of it would look like, crushed up in a bowl and think to myself - Wow! $400 worth of what?? But, it's working, so that's good. I do think it's way over-priced.

[@ThePAsilverback]

Do the math on what's spent a month on eating out or buying junk food. You're saving a ton of money

[@ThePAsilverback]

@@Zelda_Kitty cost me $12 a day. Quick shop at the Grocery buying nothing but healthy food store cost me $100 a week.

[@larissaalcorn3406]

It's an MLM. Because the company is structured that way, everything needs to be marked up to support their compensation plan.

[@melanieevans9206]

Ive done it all! I am on week 6 on Optavia. Love it BECAUSE IVE DONE IT A aLL. Toddlers are growing exponentially. So its not just “size” for calories. I am rarely hungry because Im eating all the time. The “fuelings” are just that. Fuel. They are not calling it a “meal.” They are calling it a “fueling.” The transformational portion is in Dr. Anderson’s text for the program. Its a great program IF youre mindset is right. The fuelings are portable like any food.

[@jenretzlaff213]

I was on this DIET for about 9 months. I lost 35# during the time. But, in the last 3 months I was on it I started to notice a huge change in how I was feeling. 2 things that happened to me... I felt crazy because of all the soy that was in the prepackaged food made my hormones go crazy. Plus I was obsessed with food. Probably because I was not eating enough to fuel my body. I started working with a therapist and nutritionist to gain back mental and physical health. My biggest issue is they tell you it is a lifestyle change and it is not it is a diet. Plus when I told my up line what was going on I was completely shut out. So sad after 9 months of talking every day I was shut out. I would personally not recommend this plan at all. Thank you for doing this video.

[@erics6177]

A real lifestyle change is keto, paleo, vegan, carnivore, etc. Im glad you talked to other people other than that dr a propoganda book or your "coach" who is heavily invested in you buying their "foods" . dr jason fung and dr sten eckberg helped me a lot and many other doctors agree with them and none of them have a financial interest in selling me on anything. I can buy healthy stuff anywhere. Even a gas station.

[@rootintobeing]

Omg 😱 thank you for this comment! Your experience really reveals the real dangers of this product, of the mlm culture, of eating high-soy, of what it can do to your mental & emotional health. Thank youuuu! 💕

[@Nan-59]

Im sure sorry to hear this.

[@Nan-59]

I'm 62. I've been obsessed with food since I went on my first diet at 15. To me it's something you live with, not get over!

[@teflo2]

@@erics6177 Dr. Fung is really good. He helps people to understand that calorie restriction is not equal to starvation. People have negative mental programming about eating all the time. Many of us didn't eat like this growing. I'm old enough to remember the "pre" fast food days. We ate two meals at home and lunch at st school or work using real, whole food. No snacking was allowed. People were healthier. The problem is the stuff that's been added to dairy and grains. They're toxic nowadays, but we don't need them anyway. Thanks for the tip on Dr. Eckberg. I'll check him out.

[@thebourg]

I was skeptical when I first started it but I dropped 25 pounds last year and have kept the weight off *which was all I needed to lose as I weighed 200, and I'm 5'10). And it's much more than just weight loss as they provide you with the tools and resources to support you. (And no I'm not a coach nor do I work for this company, I'm just a grateful customer.) Edit: Update I am 4 years in and down 10 more pounds while adding muscle.

[@itsnow385]

A customer too. Working wonderfully for me. The only part I am scared about it transitioning back to normal diet after 5-1. Any suggestions?

[@carolyntrana4621]

ItsNow Talk to your health coach! They are there to hold your hand through this process. I’m not a health coach but my coach has been a wonderful wealth of knowledge and guidance for me. Good luck! You can do this!

[@teflo2]

Congratulations!

[@JohnHulett]

1211 days now using using the physician led Optavia Habits of Health Transformation Program and I remain at my target weight.

[@thebourg]

@@teflo2 thx!

[@dostagirl9551]

I work in a school system where the stress, hours of sitting at a desk planning and grading, and constant exposure to high calorie kids meals and candies have the majority of teachers overweight or obese. Right now Optavia is the trending diet and more and more coworkers are ordering it. I've seen some stunning results but have been looking at KZbin to get a better idea of the nutrition and information before I jump on the bandwagon. I've tried low carb many years ago and it caused such an awful mind-fog and lethargy - not to mention nausea. Not sure if I can do this, but I have a problem with portion control and snacking and want something that takes the guesswork out of things, especially as I'm having some issues controlling my type 2 diabetes. Is there an alternative that is similar that's more realistic? Nutrisystem? Jenny Craig?

[@hiedi720]

Look at the ingredients in the fuelings! Not great, and one web site, truth in labeling, reports that it has more lead....yes lead, than most protein shakes. And how do you feel about glycerin? Yep, that's what they make some soaps out of, and it's a favorite ingredient in these foods too. This crap is HIGHLY PROCESSED! My immune doc immediately took me off the diet after 2 weeks, because my inflammation markers spiked! And in the PRIVATE group's on Facebook, you'll be kicked out if you question anything about the science behind it, or what's in the fuelings. Total censorship! My MIL lost 100lbs on this plan, but at what cost long term? She plans on staying on their products for the rest of her life.... just like the MLM wants you too. Do some online research and find out what the coaches are supposed to tell the clients that have questions. The Dr that conceived this little scheme, is making a fortune! Funny how more Dr's don't come out raving about this program, if it's so healthy...😂

[@AnnaAnna-lx6uf]

I got nauseous from the bars . First day it was ok. Second day I start vomiting after each meal. Everything is very sweet to my taste. I stoped for now. Not sure why I can’t eat fruits. Did not work for me so far. I will give another try in few days.

[@r.b.johnson5269]

GOD, that's AWFUL!!!

[@jaredmanes9407]

I am on day three of this program. I have been low key depressed and kind of sick (head ache, diarrhea, Charlie horse, low energy). They say it is the "detox" phase...I don't think I am going to continue with this.

[@candk2678]

Just keep trying! I heard the first week is hard. You can do this!

[@roxannapicos1609]

You need electrolytes that’s why! Gatorade or Powerade zero to help with the symptoms you are experiencing. Stay on! I’ve lost 30 lbs and I am not starving! This review is biased because she’s never tried it.

[@reneeclay301]

I've been on Optavia for 3 weeks lost 20lbs, I have no energy and brain fog, plus I get heartburn from the fuelings while some taste terrible . Even though I have great weight lost I think it has dropped down at an unhealthy rate. I hate this diet because I miss my Fruits & Vegetables! I miss real food that I can cook therefore, I am going to transition to Weight Watchers where I can eat real food again and have the energy to exercise.

[@summern8157]

20 pounds in 3 weeks is far too fast! That's my main issue with this diet plan. I've seen so many people drop weight crazy fast and that just isn't healthy or sustainable. Doctors typically suggest losing 0.5 to 2 lbs a week on a diet. You're probably feeling unwell because you're underfed!

[@marram2852]

I'm not sure I can even make a whole month. I also miss real food. The food tastes terrible and I have diarrhea at least once a day. I have lost a bit over 5 lb and this has helped jump start me trying to lose more weightl. I need to lose another 10-20, so we'll see!

[@Poisonshady313]

@@summern8157 i lost 100 lbs in 23 weeks using optavia. I stuck to the plan as well as anyone could hope for, and I never felt ill or unwell during any of it. Two months later, the weight is still off. Some people may have a rough experience with this, but it's not because it's too fast. A month into this program my doctor was thrilled that i was losing an average of 5 lbs a week. Just saw my doctor again recently and he didn't tell me I was underfed or lost 100 lbs too quickly. He congratulated me.

[@lisaadams2118]

@@Poisonshady313 amen!! I’m so happy to receive my first box next week....great job!

[@Poisonshady313]

@@lisaadams2118 thank you! Congratulations to you on your approaching "Day 1". I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I'm sure you'll do great!

[@noreenelizabeth6617]

Thank you for this honest look at the plan.

[@adriadri7107]

I’m so happy I didn’t hear you before joining. I’m never hungry. And you are allowed to eat vegetables in the 5-1. The fuels have carbs.

[@taunichurchill4633]

While I am happy with those that have lost weight with this. 800-1000 calories per day? And no fruit? Plus it's processed food which is really bad for you. Eating correctly is mostly a mental process. I have been successful by changing my eating habits, portion control. I eat plenty of fruit, veggies and meat. Guess what happens when you deprive yourself of things, you'll typically binge eat.

[@taunichurchill4633]

Plus why would I spend $400 a month for processed food, gross! Eat clean, eat more veggies/fruit, watch your fat intake, cut back on sugar, drink water.

[@chelskl]

i’m currently starting optavia & came across your video. love your honest opinion, but i also say don’t knock it till you try it. optavia is a bit “extreme”, but i see what it’s trying to do in the long run. it’s more so about building healthier habits...eating smaller meals every few hours, drinking your daily doses of water, cooking healthier, etc. that’s why as you transition into the different eating programs as you get the hang of it. coming from someone who was doubtful when starting...i was afraid the fuelings weren’t going to make me full, but honestly...they are very filling especially when you’re eating every 2-3 hrs. i’m not planning on staying on optavia forever, but i’ve noticed myself making healthier decisions already which is already a pro in my book.

[@ColleenChristensen]

Chelsea L. Hey girl! I do believe everyone has their own right to eat however they like! As a dietitian and based on science and the biology of the body I just can’t get behind it!

[@candiwithcarmen897]

Hi Chelsea! Keep up the great work! I too am on Optavia and I LOVE IT. We are all different, so of course its not for every single person. While Colleen does present using only some facts about the program, and while I also respect we all have opinions, I was only disappointed to find that at the very end of the video it was a plug at her own health business. Anyways, best wishes to you :)

[@ColleenChristensen]

@@candiwithcarmen897 Sorry you feel that way Candi! I do stand behind my no food rules philosophy and if that's just not a right fit for you I totally understand that!

[@Ididntwantayoutubehandl]

Curious how you can love something where you eat bbq “crunchies” covered in “probiotics” that are literally (simple google search) yeast in dry form. How many calories are you eating daily? You falling asleep from lack of energy from lack of caloric intake? Lol. You’re HARMING your amazing body by trying to starve yourself to lose weight. It wasn’t designed for that. If you need to lose weight, do it right. I know it’s not easy but this isn’t doing you any favors and people are making $$$ off you for falling for it. I say this hoping it’ll wake you up. I can’t stand seeing people fall for these MLM gimmick bull crap fad diets.

[@jasonadams8961]

Plug into all the resources. Optavia changed my life, I lost 60 lbs 5 years ago and am still keeping a healthy weight 👏🏼

[@walleye555555]

My friend has lost 85 pounds and his doctor says his numbers are great. Now he is learning to eat healthy and stay at his weight. He loves this program.

[@theresakeeling3884]

I could tell where this review was going before it started just by the smirk on your face.

[@PMTSTULSA]

omg so true

[@luvsyb]

Indeed👍

[@MysteryMan159]

Thank you for this. My wife and I are on this and yes we have lost weight, and it works BUT probably every few weeks I just start to STARVE. And feel like I need to eat everything in my pantry. The coach says “I probably kicked myself out of ketosis” which I’ve questioned the healthiness of from the start. I hate that they demonize fat too ... drives me NUTS. Take away sugar. I don’t care. Don’t take my fat!!! Haha. My job is mentally taxing and hence ... I generally suspect I need more carbs and fat that’s. also if I hadn’t been on this so long I’d probably be living in a bigger house right now ... I could have used that money to consult a dietician ...

[@Poisonshady313]

For 22 weeks on 5&1, i never felt hungry. What do you suppose you could have done better? Because I have a hard time beliving you stuck to the plan yhe way it was meant to be done.

[@MysteryMan159]

@@Poisonshady313 honestly it’s when I stick to It the way it’s “intended” to work that i starve. Eating a bar every 2-3 hours and 1 lean and green. I just spend my entire day hungry and cranky, honestly just feels like torture. And I also have suspicions about it because it is literally set up as a pyramid scheme (which they deny) and anything with that structure is suspect to me ... feels a tad cultish to me.

[@Poisonshady313]

@@MysteryMan159 I'm sorry you felt like you were starving. I keep hearing from my clients about how surprisingly full they get from what seems like such a small amount of food. As for this pyramid stuff... literally all business run by more than 4 people have fewer people at the top than they do at the bottom. Literally all of them. Being a pyramid scheme means something very specific, and people jumping to the conclusion that optavia is a pyramid scheme either A: don't know enough about pyramid schemes B: don't know enough about Optavia C: don't know enough about either. Not all direct sales businesses are pyramid schemes. No clients ever have to become coaches, and coaches don't need a minimum number of recruited coaches before they start earning money. Gyms aim to get people healthy. They sell goods and services to people with memberships. Employees make less than owners. They also benefit from opening up multiple locations. The goods optavia sells are fuelings, and the services are guidance on how to successfully use the program. I don't have to buy fuelings in order to sell them. Coaches can be coaches without becoming clients. So tell me... how do you figure i have lied to or scammed?

[@esmith7381]

Have looked into counting macros? I have dieted my whole adult life and purchased a macro book from Lauren Gleisberg on a Friday and started counting the next Monday. I didn't have to make any special trips to the store for diet food. I eat almost 2000 calories a day now and have learned how to fuel my body correctly. I was eating 1754 cal to lose weight...and have lost over 20 lbs. It was slow and steady but we'll worth it. I eat real food and eat guilt free...carbs, fats and protein!

[@MysteryMan159]

@@esmith7381 looks interesting though the only troubling thing is that it’s based on Bmr. Which I have issues with becuase I think it’s a fundamentally flawed measurement of health. Literally every other metric I have on my scale tells me I am healthy except for BMR. So scientifically that tells me that that’s a bad metric. ...

[@jenniferchandler6511]

A coworker of mine just started this program. She's full of anecdotal evidence that her sister lost 16lbs in a month (who is already thin), another woman lost 20lbs, etc. When she told me about the plan I was like WHAT?! Your body needs fuel, but she said it kicks in fat burning. I would think she would lose muscle mass. I hate these fad diet programs that are absolutely not sustainable in the long term. Just like Keto. Yea you lose weight fast, but once you start eating regularly, you gain it back and then some. I prefer to eat clean, unprocessed foods as much as possible. I can't imagine the ingredient lists on those "fuelings."

[@Cocoa05081]

I actually looked up each ingredient in some of the fuelings and could not find any real red flags, no worse than the crappy processed foods that we eat everyday. I am using the plan to lose some weight, and LEARN to eat more healthfully, not shovel goldfish crackers, or sweets into my body. It is easy to follow and start onto a lifestyle change path for the long haul. Not sure how long I will continue, but I asked my doctor what calorie range I should be in, and I will supplement whole nutritional foods along with this plan as I go forward.

[@elainevickers.633]

Just wait until you get to Menopause. You may love carbs and so will your hips, thighs, and middle. Eating protein helps keep you from being hungry. Carbs burn quickly, so you will be hungry sooner.

[@Echostrikes]

When I first watched this while doing optavia: whats she talking about?? Its so affective!! Me and my entire family lost weight, +60 lb each and its working!! :D 9 months later: everyone in the family gained 1/3 of their weight back. While I only regained 15 (outta 80), i have a hard time dealing with my relationship with food and am now scared of 90% of foods

[@StarryKitten_8]

I love the info you gave in this video! However, I found all the edits a bit distracting. I will not be purchasing the Optavio meal plan though! I completely agree with you.

[@toribaeyens785]

I started the program and I’m starving alll day and I’m so moody I’m About to be done

[@DustinChecketts]

Keep at it! You're likely going through a huge change in diet, so it'll definitely effect your hormones and mental state for several days. But after 3-7 days, you'll be amazed at how you feel, how alert you are, and how NOT hungry you are considering how little you're eating compare to life before. FWIW, I'm not a consumer of the Optavia product, but I do Keto on and off and can definitely testify of the Keto flu while your body adapts to the change. I feel so much better once I push though 2-3 days of misery each time I fall out of Ketosis and have to push myself back into it.

[@toribaeyens785]

Dustin Checketts no thanks I stoped I joined weight watchers and I’m Doing so much better with this program 😃

[@francesmorris9978]

I was the same way. And honestly quit after three weeks. It's not for everyone. But I do think its good to teach people what a balanced meal is and to not keep eating when. You're full.

[@godlovesyou3932]

I am on optavia right now. The books and tools that they give you are great. Making habits and changing your mindset. I just still feel sus about the calories. I know it’s not healthy but I don’t know what to do.

[@Poisonshady313]

As someone who did the optavia 5&1 for 5 months, I can tell you that it is perfectly healthy. My doctor didn't tell me otherwise when I was 1.5 months into it, and he didn't tell me otherwise after I hit my goal. And when you transition you gradually increase your calories until you're in maintenance and you figure out with your coach the appropriate daily calorie intake for you.

[@viridianasanchez90]

My “coach” was confused because I had really bad headaches and nausea and no energy no cravings and extremely emotional the first week... she kept saying that it wasn’t typical so I don’t know I’ve lost 6 pounds and a few inches but I’m still kind of skeptical. This was helpful!

[@ThePedsOT]

Those are some typical reactions when detoxing. Unfortunately not all coaches realize that. If you have headaches, it is because of the low sodium in this plan, or decreasing caffeine quickly. Eating dill pickles, drinking power aid zero can help with that. The other symptoms should go away as you get further in. If you are hungry, you need more protein. If you are not getting helpful suggestions, ask to speak with your coach's coach. You should not be uncomfortable while doing this. And read the materials that came with your program. They help with the mental part.

[@daynamelendez3205]

I am so happy I didn't base my decision of joining Optavia on your video. I look forward to my journey. I hope others really do their research and don't just watch this video

[@Woodiness]

Thank god I’m seeing so many comments like this. Both my mom and my grandad have done this, they have both lost like 50 pounds. I start tomorrow 💪🏼

[@Insoportable7]

@@Woodiness ME TOO! IM ORDERING MINE TOMORROW!!

[@lenajohnson1256]

Me too. They think we are in a cult because we see results and are excited about it. lol I think that is funny.

[@shellyjohnson8491]

I tried this for 2 months. I was starving and the food was unsatisfying. Thanksgiving came and I let myself enjoy it. I COULD NOT go back to optavia. My body refused. I'm on nutrisystem now and it's so much more realistic! Real food that doesn't taste like cardboard.

[@lizmitchem9334]

I was on nutrisystem for 10 years switched because this one fits my life style and there are more options

[@jillyncomstock2284]

What is your take on Low Fodmap for IBS. Seems like sometimes restricting certain food is necessary. What do you suggest for someone that is triggered (-craving and addictive behavior) by carbs of all kinds.

[@richardgibbs1527]

Is there a recommended diet you approve of for type 2 diabetes? I have issues with high and low blood sugar levels. Does eating more frequently help?

[@epflrz1625]

So I was temporarily successful on Optavia. I lost 97 pounds and felt great. I was never hungry, and felt quite satisfied. The issue is that when I went off, I gained almost all of it back and have ended up with a really unhealthy relationship with food. I am at a loss at this point.

[@BlandinaMott]

So sorry. I'm on Optavia now and this is what I'm afraid of.

[@janewilliamson6917]

Those that use this as a "diet" and don't change their relationship with food to a healthy relationship and healthy habits around food do not transition well... meaning they go back to the same lifestyle that had them unhealthy in the first place... that is why this is a Healthy Lifestyle Transformation...

[@kimhannan4892]

I have lost weight on many diets actually...and then comes the transition off. I lost a ton on Jenny Craig, loved the food, etc but as soon as I tried to get off of the expensive meals-boom. I don't know what the answer is. I can't find anything that seems to help or if it does, as soon as I try to transition it's all back. I'm not naive that I am the problem in this equation. I don't really know what healthy eating is anymore.

[@m.a.9194]

Did this program for almost 3 wks. I had to stop as I found myself obsessing over food, labels and calories. I am on the verge of developing an eating disorder. It may be good for obese people who are desperate. That’s where most of transformations are evident. It is definitely a Cult. I deleted myself from all their social media. I am happier now. But working on reversing the damage.

[@kimcorrick9886]

I love it! But I am obese and desperate. I tried e wet diet. The support on this program is incredible

[@decbabygem4eva]

@@kimcorrick9886 go vegan you can eat all the fruits and vegetables and eat all your favorite meals just without the animal products which lead to all the health issues like: diabetes, high cholesterol, and cancer. Our bodies where designed to self heal and lastly medication do not heal they just ease the symptoms and in the long run so not reverse the illness. When you eat clean/vegan no animal products You do not count calories or servings Because it’s healthy eating.

[@rogeliosshow8313]

I think this was more of a personal issue than the program issue. Hope you are doing good!

[@TheOnlyLauryn]

I LOVE THIS. Also, I shop at Aldi too! And as a marathon runner I NEED CARBS. I eat about 2000+ calories a day and burn off a ton between running and doing horse chores. Thank you for sharing this!

[@amygrove9635]

Thank you! Exactly what I needed to hear!

[@jenniferdiener4140]

I have been on this plan for 9 days and have never been more miserable in my life!

[@ThePedsOT]

If you are miserable, you are not doing something right. You need to talk to your coach and if they can't help you, talk to their coach. There are lots of variables.

[@jwilson3902]

I quit after 4 days because I felt so sick. My stomach was in knots and my hands would not stop shaking. I would get hunger pains 10 minutes after eating a fueling. I knew this diet was a bad idea and if I didn’t stop I could have serious side effects. And yes, I followed the program exactly and I was in constant contact with my coach. Thankfully you can send your food back for a refund, which is what I did. Live and learn!!

[@ThePedsOT]

@@jwilson3902 it sounds like you were detoxing. That happens when your diet was completely wrong for your body. You had a particularly strong reaction.

[@Woodiness]

@@ThePedsOT nah you just need your stomach to shrink... which can take a week or two

[@ThePedsOT]

@@Woodiness yes, I guess that could be partly, but that is, I think, more mental than physical because if there is food in the stomach, you shouldn't have "hunger pains 10 minutes after eating a fueling". I had always been obese, had gastric bypass, regained most of the weight and now with this program, I'm down to a healthy weight. My BMI is now 25 for the first time in my life. When I'm "hungry", I think about it, take a drink of water and decide if I'm "hungry" or bored, anxious, upset or whatever the ton of other emotions that trigger me to eat. It is almost NEVER hungry. That is one of the things this program teaches, to figure out the reason you want to eat, and choose what to do about it rather than reflexively eat. I LOVE THIS PROGRAM! It has given me my life back.

[@leakovacs6306]

This was so funny and informative! I’ve never seen a video deconstructing a diet like this...subscribed :) ❤️

[@ColleenChristensen]

Lea Kovacs glad you like it!! Any other diets you’d like to see let me know!!

[@kelligrennan6133]

I tried this diet out of curiosity. The coach ghosted me after the purchase. (After a month she apologized. Thankfully she was fine and admitted she just dropped me. ) I tried to reach out to the company a number of times to get further assistance and they never responded. That being said, if you don't want food and just eat the packaged "meals" (many don't taste fab but some are tolerable, you will probably lose weight, temporarily. It is not a plan for me as I like fruits and vegetables other than greens.

[@yexuslover1]

I’ve been on Optavia for 2 months now and have loss 31 pounds. I’m only 39 years old. I was morbidly obese, had high blood pressure, anxiety, and heart palpitations. I was on the road to a heart attack or stroke. Optavia saved my life. I’m not a health coach, but there’s nothing wrong with making money and helping others to live healthy. People have to make a living and pay their bills. I’m also not the type to say “this works and all other diets or programs does not!” Try it; if it works for you, great! If not, move on.

[@valangstatolbert6775]

How will 31 lbs. save your life? ...if you have all of these medical problems and if you're morbidly obese? Learn to exercise and pick your meals. You can't stay on this forever. Blessings

[@yexuslover1]

@@valangstatolbert6775 because I had absolutely no discipline, motivation, and interest to eat healthy and exercise. No matter how hard I tried on my own, it just didn’t stick. This program is teaching me how and it’s forcing me to build healthy habits. Sometimes when one has been overweight for a long time, they have built unhealthy habits, like an addiction, they can’t stop. They need to humble themselves and admit they need help. 31 pounds brought my blood pressure to normal, no more anxiety and heart palpitations. That says enough.

[@mollyburns8946]

Sure, this “lifestyle” works for weight loss. How could it not? You’re calorie intake is so low. But take it from me - it’s not all it’s cracked up to be once you hit you’re goal weight. I lost 120 pounds in eleven months. I stuck to it 100% and did not cheat once. I also followed the transition exactly as my “coach” presented it to me. I hit my goal weight three years ago and my life has sucked since then. You don’t have to count calories while you’re on program but you sure as hell do once your off. Especially if you don’t want to continue to spend an exorbitant amount of money on the products which taste like crap. (I would know. I ate them for over a year and then still continued to do so once I learned I had to to keep the weight off.) About a year ago I felt like I finally got a handle on my work out routine and found something that worked for me (or so I thought). A mix of cardio and weight lifting. So I threw out my scale and the remaining products I still had. And started living a true 80/20 lifestyle and actually trying to enjoy my life. And guess what? I immediately gained weight. I couldn’t fit into my clothes even with exercising 4-5 days a week and eating whole healthy foods 80% of the time. Which yes, includes fruits! And sweet potatoes! Can you believe that?? How shocking. So I’m trying to learn to be happy with how I am now but this “lifestyle” with it’s dumb name has mentally messed me up. So if you are prepared to spend your money and eat their crap on their every three hour schedule for the rest of your life than have at it! Good luck!

[@bethneiman4895]

Sorry your experience wasn't good. I happen to like most of the fuelings, not all. Perhaps 120 PhD is not a sustainable weight for you. I know my optimal weight is about 155 lbs where it can be maintained. 120 sounds great but not realistic for everyone. Transitioning to a nutritionist or a Weight Watchers style program helps keep weight off while teaching us the correct amount of foods to eat each day/meal. Hope your journey becomes smoother

[@mollyburns8946]

@@bethneiman4895 thanks Beth. Things have gotten better. But I didn’t say I weighed 120 pounds. I lost 120 pounds. I weigh what would be considered a “healthy” BMI since according to the almighty Dr. A and his Habits of Health book this is what you should aim for to be healthy. Why should I have to spend more money and join another program to teach me about portion size when first - I’ve spent THOUSANDS, yes THOUSANDS, of dollars on this program? And second - isn’t that one of the things I’m supposed to learn from the program anyway? My portions are very controlled by the way. And with the way weight watchers works now, I would for sure gain. I eat most of their “free” foods on a daily basis. I can’t imagine how my body would react if I started eating the food that actually counts towards their point system. But that’s the reality of this program - you eat so few calories and your body adjusts to that. They want you to continue to eat how you do in the last week of transition which is still in a calorie deficit. I’m just trying to give people a more accurate account of what it’s like years after you hit your goal weight. I rarely hear any truthful accounts. I really only hear from the people who are now coaches and they now make money off the program. If I even dare try to post anything like this on their Facebook page, my comment would be deleted immediately. My coach says I am her biggest success story but if I continue to be a success it won’t be because of this program. Also, coach is a ridiculous title for them. Buying a $99 kit in no way makes you a health expert. They tried to get me to do this multiple times. Thank god I refused.

[@r.b.johnson5269]

@@mollyburns8946 I wonder if this plan causes our metabolism to slow waaaay down from such low caloric intake.

[@stevegibson1628]

I am on my 3rd week and I plan on getting rid of all of this stuff and go on my own I can't afford to go bankrupt on this program dam