The Optavia 5 & 1 Plan is structured around consuming six small meals throughout the day, approximately every two to three hours. This frequent eating schedule is designed to help the body enter a fat-burning state and maintain steady energy levels. The plan incorporates five Optavia Fuelings and one Lean & Green meal daily. Establishing this consistent eating pattern is considered a key habit for long-term success.
The Daily Eating Schedule on 5 & 1
The core of the Optavia 5 & 1 Plan is eating six times a day, roughly every 2 to 3 hours. This consistent meal timing aims to prevent significant fluctuations in blood sugar, which can help manage hunger and reduce cravings. Regular meals provide a steady supply of nutrients, supporting energy levels throughout the day.
Your day will typically include:
- A Fueling shortly after waking.
- Subsequent Fuelings every 2-3 hours.
- Your Lean & Green meal, which can be placed at a time that fits your schedule.
- A final Fueling later in the evening.
Understanding Fuelings and Lean & Green Meals
The six daily meals are comprised of five Optavia Fuelings and one Lean & Green meal.
Fuelings: These are Optavia's proprietary, pre-portioned foods like shakes, bars, and soups. They are designed to be low in calories and carbohydrates, and high in protein, often fortified with vitamins and minerals. Five Fuelings are consumed each day.
Lean & Green Meal: This is one meal prepared by you, focusing on whole foods. The timing of this meal is flexible.
Example Daily Structure
While the exact timing can be adjusted to fit your lifestyle, a typical day on the 5 & 1 plan might look like this:
- Morning: Fueling 1
- Mid-Morning: Fueling 2
- Lunchtime: Fueling 3
- Mid-Afternoon: Fueling 4
- Evening: Lean & Green Meal
- Late Evening: Fueling 5
The flexibility in scheduling the Lean & Green meal and the Fuelings allows individuals to integrate the plan into their daily routines.
Comparison: Optavia 5 & 1 vs. Other Plans
| Feature | Optavia 5 & 1 Plan | Optimal Health 3 & 3 Plan | Traditional Calorie Counting | Intermittent Fasting (e.g., 16:8) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meal Frequency | 6 times per day (5 Fuelings + 1 L&G) | 6 times per day (3 Fuelings + 3 L&G) | Variable, often 3 main meals + snacks | 2-3 meals within an 8-hour window |
| Meal Type | Primarily pre-packaged Fuelings; one homemade meal | Combination of Fuelings and homemade meals | All homemade meals | All homemade meals within time window |
| Meal Timing | Every 2-3 hours | Every 2-3 hours | Flexible, often based on hunger | Within a specific feeding window |
| Calorie Level | Approx. 800-1000 calories/day | Higher calorie level for maintenance | Varies greatly based on individual goals | Varies based on individual goals and eating window |
| Primary Goal | Structured, rapid weight loss | Weight maintenance | Calorie-controlled weight loss or maintenance | Time-restricted eating for various health benefits |
Conclusion
To summarize, on the Optavia 5 and 1 plan, you eat six times daily, spacing meals and Fuelings approximately two to three hours apart. This includes five Optavia Fuelings and one self-prepared Lean & Green meal. This frequent eating schedule is intended to support the body's fat-burning state and help manage hunger and blood sugar levels. The plan emphasizes building healthy eating habits through this structured yet adaptable routine. By following this consistent pattern, individuals can focus on weight loss while learning about proper portions and meal composition. Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new diet. You can find more information in the official Optavia Guide.
