OPTAVIA is a nutrition program designed for rapid weight loss, although many experts, doctors, and dietitians do not recommend this approach. The program’s main benefit is touted to be weight loss, with most positive reviews highlighting success stories through before-and-after pictures and descriptions of life-changing transformations. Despite the many positive stories, OPTAVIA, like any business, faces negative reviews and complaints, including claims that the program ‘ruined my life,’ as well as concerns about high prices, side effects, and legal issues.
Interested in OPTAVIA? At Optimal Weight Plan, our experienced OPTAVIA health coaches prioritize creating personalized plans and supporting you throughout your journey. Let’s talk about creating a personalized plan. Book your free call today.
What Is OPTAVIA?
OPTAVIA is a weight-loss program centered around a combination of pre-packaged “Fuelings” and homemade “lean and green” meals. Following this diet plan, you’ll eat 5 small snacks a day, every two to three hours, mostly from the protein bars, shakes, and smoothies delivered once a month in your mailbox. And then, you’ll have an OPTAVIA “lean and green” meal. A lean and green meal is something that you prepare yourself at home based on the recipes available in the OPTAVIA app. The app provides not only recipes but also helps you make low-carb meals that are protein-rich. While the plan promises quick results and gives access to a supportive community, it relies heavily on processed foods and adopts a restrictive, low-calorie approach.
While some sources rank OPTAVIA highly and emphasize its potential for healthy weight loss, others question its potential long-term health implications. According to CNET, OPTAVIA is the best community-based diet program in 2024, and US Health News ranks it #11 in Best Fast Weight-Loss Diets. However, experts like Sarah Garone and Jaclyn London, M.S., R.D., CDN, raise concerns about the very low-calorie nature of the 5 & 1 plan, highlighting potential side effects and the need for medical supervision. They also express reservations about the reliance on processed “Fuelings” that contain additives and lack FDA regulation. “Consulting a physician before starting this plan is crucial, especially since protein powders may interact with medications or contain contaminants,” states London. So, how exactly does OPTAVIA program work?
How Does OPTAVIA 5 and 1 Work?
The OPTAVIA diet works by promoting rapid weight loss through severe calorie restriction (800-1,000 calories per day). But is this a healthy approach? It depends. Research into the long-term effects of rapid vs. gradual weight loss offers some insights. A 2020 meta-analysis in the British Journal of Nutrition by Damoon Ashtary-Larky from Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences found that while both approaches led to similar overall weight loss, gradual weight loss preserved more lean muscle mass and resting metabolic rate (RMR). Rapid weight loss, while initially showing greater fat reduction, can lead to a higher loss of fat-free mass. A 2022 review in Current Obesity Reports by Adam Fogarasi from University of Copenhagen suggests these differences equalize after a few weeks (15-30 days). Ultimately, they found that the long-term effects on weight regain and metabolic health were comparable regardless of whether weight loss was fast or gradual.
So, is OPTAVIA bad for you? While relying on processed foods raises valid concerns, the program offers more than just its restrictive Optimal Weight 5 & 1 plan. It encourages physical activity, good sleep habits, a supportive environment, and a focus on mental well-being. And while expert reviews often focus on the initial weight loss phase, the OPTAVIA program includes a transition phase to more balanced meal plan for long-term success.
What Are the OPTAVIA Reviews?
OPTAVIA diet reviews refer to the opinions and evaluations of the OPTAVIA weight-loss program shared by individuals who have tried the program or experts in the field of nutrition and health. OPTAVIA diet reviews are highly varied, which makes sense due to the program’s complex nature. In our coaching experience, we know that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work, and reviewing the OPTAVIA plan shouldn’t rely on a single perspective. That’s why we’ve surveyed healthcare professionals and, most importantly, current OPTAVIA customers to find out what are the pros and cons of OPTAVIA diet.
So, let’s start from the experts. What do doctors say about OPTAVIA? Medical opinions on OPTAVIA program are diverse. Dr. Eric Westman, an internal medicine doctor, obesity specialist, researcher, and a proponent of keto and real food-based diets, reviews the OPTAVIA weight loss program with a critical but open perspective. He acknowledges that 5 and 1 diet, a low-calorie, low-carb, and low-fat diet, could work for weight loss due to its structured caloric deficit, but he expresses concern over its sustainability and reliance on pre-packaged meals.
“This is a classic low calorie diet which if you follow it it will work unless you have a really really slow metabolic rate but I would say that this is a reasonable thing to do. It’s very easy to follow if you’re someone who doesn’t have time to cook and just wants meals delivered then OPTAVIA makes a very easy for you,” says Dr. Eric Westman.
Does Dr. Eric Westman recommend OPTAVIA? No. Dr. Westman prefers a simpler, real-food approach to weight management and is wary of the potential for nutritional deficiencies and the cost associated with OPTAVIA’s products. In contrast, Dr. Stephen Weinman, MD, a board-certified family physician, states: “I recommend OPTAVIA… I cannot maintain any diet… but with OPTAVIA my weight reset maintains for many months… We have had two patients that lost enough weight to change their lives.” Dr. Weinman’s experience highlights the potential for both success and the challenge of long-term maintenance, common with many weight loss approaches.
While expert opinions are valuable, they only provide one piece of the puzzle. It’s equally important to consider reviews of OPTAVIA focused on specific areas like weight loss efficacy, food taste, meal plan structure, and coaching support from its customers.
What Are the OPTAVIA Weight Loss Reviews?
OPTAVIA weight loss reviews refer to feedback and evaluations specifically focused on the weight loss results achieved by individuals following the OPTAVIA program. So, how effective is OPTAVIA weight loss program? Kate, one of our coaching clients, experienced significant short-term weight loss but found the program expensive and difficult to sustain long-term. “You do lose a lot of weight very quickly… but if you go back to the way that you were eating before you are gonna start gaining weight back again,” she says.
“I was on OPTAVIA for about 8 months and lost about 55 pounds,” says Cindy, another OPTAVIA customer. “I believe Optavia is a good program and good coaching can be very helpful,” she adds, “but the cost is a major concern for me. I’m also ready to branch out and figure out my own approach to healthy living.” Having continued on her own, Cindy feels successful finding OPTAVIA fueling alternatives.
Here’s another example of weight loss results from Tiffany Underwood Howard, an Independent OPTAVIA coach (photo below).
And here.
We could share many, many, many more OPTAVIA before and after pictures and success stories of life after OPTAVIA, like Cindy’s and Tiffany. But apart from expert reviews and a few feel-good anecdotal stories from people who did OPTAVIA, surely we want some actual scientific proof this program works, right? Are there any rigorous, well-respected studies to back this up? Yep, we got one or two.
According to a randomized controlled trial published in Obesity Science & Practice Journal in 2018 by Linda M Arterburn, the low-calorie OPTAVIA 5&1 Plan significantly outperformed a self-directed, reduced-calorie diet in achieving weight loss and reducing body measurements in adults with overweight or obesity. Specifically, participants in the OPTAVIA group lost an average of 5 kg (11 lbs) more weight, 3.53 kg (7.8 lbs) more fat mass, 3.9 cm (1.5 in) more off their waist circumference, and 3.8 cm (1.5 in) more off their hip circumference than those in the control group over the 16-week study period, as shown in this diagram.
Oh wait… but this study was funded by Medifast Inc (OPTAVIA parent company). Are there any studies on OPTAVIA that weren’t funded by Medifast? Yep.
According to a 2023 clinical trial by Jennifer Dearborn Tomazos from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Yale University, the OPTAVIA Optimal Weight 4 & 2 & 1 Plan was effective for weight loss in overweight or obese patients with a recent ischemic stroke. Over 50% of OPTAVIA participants achieved more than 5% weight loss in 12 weeks, significantly exceeding the standard care group’s results. But while weight loss is important, what do people think of the actual OPTAVIA food products?
What Are the OPTAVIA Food Reviews?
OPTAVIA food reviews refer to evaluations of the taste, texture, variety, and overall satisfaction of OPTAVIA Fuelings. Unlike weight loss reviews, OPTAVIA food reviews can be subjective. You may have different taste preferences and expectations, and that’s what we’ve seen in our survey. So, what are the real people reviews about OPTAVIA Fuelings?
Let’s start with a detailed review from Caroline Igo, a wellness editor at CNET, who “taste-tested” the whole plan. She found most OPTAVIA bars and shakes okay, while savory snacks such as potato chives or honey mustard sticks “were bland, dry and heavily processed.” “I thought the bars tasted great, similar to cereal bars I would eat as a kid,” states Caroline. “There are various flavors including peanut butter, s’mores, chocolate mint cookie and raisin oat cinnamon. If you’re not a fan of chocolate, there are plenty of other flavors to try,” Igo adds. You can see how does the OPTAVIA bars looks like in this photo.
And this.
Moving on to Megan, one of our OPTAVIA coaching clients, she reported positive feedback, finding the Fuelings easy to incorporate. She specifically enjoyed the cinnamon crunchy cereal and the creamy chocolate shake mixed with coffee. ‘I actually like this better than the caramel macchiato even though that one’s good,’ says Megan. However, she noted challenges with certain products, like the Zesty Cheddar Italian Herb Crunchers, which she described as having an ‘odd aftertaste.’
OK, but what about the new OPTAVIA protein powders and amino acid products? In our opinion, and based on surveys and reviews, they taste similar to other whey protein or amino acids you would find at GNC or Walmart. While the orange mango and strawberry lemonade flavors are surprisingly pleasant and don’t taste artificial, you’ll need to either order them separately on the OPTAVIA website or speak to your coach about enrolling in the OPTAVIA ACTIVE diet program.
What Are the OPTAVIA Coaching Reviews?
OPTAVIA coaching reviews refers to assessments and opinions focused on the guidance, support, and effectiveness provided by OPTAVIA health coaches. At Optimal Weight Plan, we are a group of certified OPTAVIA coaches, and we understand experience with Optavia will be highly influenced by your coach. Tamera Conwell, one of our head coaches at Optimal Weight Plan, says that “When I started, I had a great coach who was a certified nutrition-coach, personal trainer, and writer and was passionate about health. I have heard negative reviews from other people that they did not have good coaches. However, just like church, you cannot blame God for messed up people.”
This shows the importance of a positive coach-client relationship. But what do other people who did the OPTAVIA plan think about their coaches? John, one of OPTAVIA’s clients, says that his results after losing 72 pounds with OPTAVIA remain stable, 4.5 years later, and “my certified OPTAVIA Health Coach was key in my return to health success. I eat now mostly normal food but order OPTAVIA for snacks I like. I’m not blind to the fact that this is an MLM. I have no interest in a side hustle or becoming a coach myself.” John is 79 and according to his primary doctor he is “one of the healthy patients she has for my age”. John adds “Optavia didn’t ruined my life. Optavia saved my life.”
However, not everyone has a positive experience. Jessica, one of OPTAVIA’s former health coaches, states that “I have done Optavia on and off then ended up coaching. The coaching was the worst decision ever. I had no personal life.” Jessica also mentions pressure from higher-tier coaches that made her treat her friends as “time robbers”. She adds that a desire to further her education was criticized and questioned because “I don’t need to for OPTAVIA.”
Ready to achieve your health goals with OPTAVIA? Connect with our experienced coaches for personalized support and guidance. Book your free consultation today!
What Are the Complaints about the OPTAVIA Diet?
The OPTAVIA company has received over 470 complaints at the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Out of those, only 59 have been resolved in the past 12 months. The company’s average BBB review score is a concerning 1.52 out of 5, based on 119 reviews. Additionally, OPTAVIA is not accredited by the BBB. This track record has led to legal issues and raises concerns that potential customers should consider before deciding if OPTAVIA is right for them. The most common complaints about OPTAVIA are listed below.
- Lawsuits
- Billing Issues
- Wrong Orders
- Refund Complaints
- Pyramid Scheme and Multi-Level Marketing (MLM)
- High Costs
- Side Effects
1. Lawsuits
In 2022, OPTAVIA faced an action class lawsuit for allegedly enrolling customers into an automatic renewal plan, “Optavia Premier,” without their explicit consent, leading to unauthorized charges of over $500 per month. This practice, accused of violating California’s Automatic Renewal Law, demands clear and conspicuous disclosure of subscription terms before purchase and a post-purchase confirmation email detailing the renewal terms and cancellation policy. Jamie Zeller, one of the plaintiffs, was unknowingly enrolled in OPTAVIA Premier and charged for unwanted products. The lawsuit aims to hold Optavia and its parent company, Medifast, accountable for their “sneaky” enrollment processes and non-compliance with legal requirements for automatic renewals.
2. Billing Issues
Optavia faces frequent complaints about billing issues on Trustpilot and BBB. Customers report significant overcharges compared to initial quotes. One customer was charged $339.63 instead of the agreed-upon $50, leading to a $253.85 overdraft fee. Even after returning products, refunds are sometimes not issued. Lengthy hold times or disconnections add to the frustration. These billing problems hurt customers financially and tarnish Optavia’s reputation.
3. Wrong Orders
Customers also frequently complain to the Better Business Bureau about receiving the wrong OPTAVIA orders. OPTAVIA claims they “strive to prioritize client satisfaction” and will take corrective action, but customers still report difficulties getting replacements. Some customers were unable to resolve the issue even after providing correct credit card information, leading to concerns about OPTAVIA’s practices.
4. Refund Complaints
According to online forums such as Reddit, ConsumerAffairs, and Imamother, customers report struggles in getting OPTAVIA refunds. One customer canceled on January 31, 2023, yet was charged $416.92 six days later. Despite providing proof of cancellation, they have been waiting a month for a refund, with the company only stating that they are investigating.
5. Pyramid Scheme and Multi-Level Marketing (MLM)
OPTAVIA is often criticized for its multi-level marketing (MLM) structure, which some liken to a pyramid scheme due to its high-pressure sales tactics and misleading use of the “health coach” title. So, is OPTAVIA a scam? While OPTAVIA shares similarities with MLMs, such as recruitment emphasis, commission-based income, and sales of proprietary products, it remains a legitimate business. The problem lies in how customers report feeling pressured by friends or family to buy products or become distributors, contributing negatively to the program’s perception.
6. High Costs
The financial aspects of the OPTAVIA program, including the costs of meal replacements, groceries, and additional products, contribute to its negative reviews. The monthly cost of the OPTAVIA diet is $415.05, which averages out to $14 per day. In comparison, other popular diets like Nutrisystem, Jenny Craig, and Bistro MD range from $11 to $31 per day, positioning OPTAVIA as a mid-range option.
So, is the OPTAVIA diet expensive? Compared to average American food spending, yes. Data from the United States Department of Labor shows that in 2022, the average household spent $9,343 annually on food ($778.58 monthly). A significant portion (61% or $475.25 monthly) was allocated to food at home. According to a Statista report, average annual household food expenditure in the United States increased by almost 28% from 2020 to 2022.
7. Side Effects
The OPTAVIA diet carries the possibility of side effects, affecting both physical and mental health. Insight from a 2018 study in the Obesity Science & Practice Journal reveals that these side effects are not uncommon, with 36.9% (24 out of 65) of participants in the OPTAVIA group reporting adverse events. The primary issues encountered include gastrointestinal problems, with diarrhea and constipation affecting a small number of participants, and upper respiratory tract infections emerging in more than 5% of the group.
Ok, but this was a 16-week study. What about the long-term side effects of OPTAVIA program? Common short-term side effects reported by freelance wellness writers on sources like Healthline, US News Today, and Livestrong include digestive issues (gas and bloating), hunger, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. There are also numerous blogs, negative reviews, and anecdotal stories from people claiming that ‘OPTAVIA ruined my life,’ saying they’ve regained the weight, lost muscle mass, and stopped doing things they loved.
At Optimal Weight Plan, our experienced OPTAVIA health coaches understand these concerns. We prioritize creating personalized plans and supporting you throughout your journey. Our focus is on helping you achieve your health goals in a sustainable way, addressing potential side effects and building habits for lasting success.
If you’re considering OPTAVIA, let’s discuss how we can work together. Schedule a complimentary discovery call today.
Is OPTAVIA a Good Diet?
It depends. According to SaVanna Shoemaker, a registered dietitian and freelance writer, the cost of OPTAVIA isn’t justified. Following the OPTAVIA diet requires purchasing fuelings from the company, costing between $400-$450 per month.
In our opinion, the MLM portion of OPTAVIA aside, the 5 and 1 program does work. However, like any weight loss plan, it takes time and requires accountability and the development of permanent habits for long-term success. Many clients join the program solely for weight loss, not to start a business. Many OPTAVIA coaches are registered dieticians and nutritionists and absolutely have the qualifications to help. However, with regards to concerns about coaches’ experience and education, ultimately this is your journey. It’s important to research and determine what best suits your individual needs. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for weight loss.
Long-term weight loss is about training your body and mind on creating healthy habits. It is a lifelong commitment, not a quick fix. If you’ve decided OPTAVIA is the right path for you, we’d love to be a part of your weight loss journey.
If you’re ready to explore OPTAVIA, we’d love to support you. At Optimal Weight Plan, our experienced coaches provide personalized guidance and accountability to help you reach your goals. Book a call today to learn more about how we can help you on your weight loss journey.
