The Optavia program is a structured weight loss and maintenance plan that focuses on eating frequent, portion-controlled meals, called 'Fuelings,' along with one or more 'Lean & Green' meals made at home. While the food guidelines are clear, the rules about drinks can often lead to questions for people who are new to the plan or have been on it for a while. The good news is that there are many acceptable drinks beyond just water to help stay hydrated and feel satisfied.
The Importance of Hydration on Optavia
Staying properly hydrated is important for overall health and is highly recommended by Optavia. Drinking at least 64 ounces of water every day is a basic rule for anyone on the program. In addition to plain water, a range of drinks that are free of calories and carbohydrates can be included, but always in moderation.
Approved Drink Options
- Plain Water: This is the most important part of staying hydrated on Optavia. It has no calories and is necessary for the body to function.
- Sparkling Water: This is a good option for people who miss the bubbles of soda. Make sure it does not have any added sugar or calories.
- Infused Water: Add slices of approved fruits or herbs like lemon, cucumber, mint, or ginger to plain water for a refreshing taste.
- Coffee: Black coffee is allowed, typically up to two cups a day, as long as it is not sweetened. Approved additions include a small amount of unsweetened almond milk or artificial sweeteners like stevia.
- Tea: Unsweetened black, green, or oolong tea are excellent choices. Herbal teas are usually fine as well, but always check the ingredients for hidden sugars.
- Diet Soda: Sodas that have zero calories and zero carbohydrates are allowed in moderation, as they do not contain sugar. Examples include Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, and Pepsi Black. However, the carbonation can sometimes cause bloating in some people.
- Zero-Calorie Sports Drinks: Drinks like Gatorade Zero or Powerade Zero are sometimes allowed, but it's important to keep an eye on how many calories and electrolytes they have.
- Optavia's Own Drinks: The company offers various branded beverage mixes, like its frothy cappuccino and hot chocolate, that count as a 'Fueling'. These are designed to fit the program's nutritional requirements.
Drinks to Avoid on Optavia
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what you can drink. To stay in the fat-burning state promoted by the program, certain drinks should not be consumed, particularly during the weight loss phases.
- Alcohol: This is not recommended on Optavia. Alcohol adds empty calories and carbohydrates, which can stop your body from burning fat. It can also increase appetite and lead to bad food choices.
- Sugary Beverages: Any drinks that contain sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or other caloric sweeteners are not allowed. This includes regular sodas, sugary juices, and sweetened teas.
- High-Calorie Creamers and Add-ins: Heavy cream, sugar-filled syrups, and other high-calorie coffee and tea additions are not allowed, as they add a lot of calories and carbohydrates.
- Most Energy Drinks: While some zero-sugar options may exist, many energy drinks have high amounts of sugar and caffeine that can disrupt health goals.
Comparing Drinks Allowed and Not Allowed on Optavia
To better show the differences, here is a comparison table of common drinks and whether they are allowed on the Optavia program.
| Beverage | Allowed on Optavia | Primary Reason | Moderation/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Water | Yes | Calorie- and carbohydrate-free | Recommended daily minimum of 64 ounces. |
| Black Coffee | Yes | Low-calorie, zero sugar | Permitted unsweetened, limited to 1-2 cups per day. Approved sweeteners can be used. |
| Green Tea (Unsweetened) | Yes | Calorie- and carbohydrate-free, antioxidant benefits | A great hydration alternative to water. |
| Diet Soda (e.g., Diet Coke) | Yes (Moderation) | Zero sugar and calories | Carbonation can cause bloating; avoid excessive consumption. |
| Fruit Juice | No | High in sugar and calories | Contains concentrated natural sugars which can hinder weight loss. |
| Alcohol (e.g., Wine, Beer) | No | Interrupts fat-burning state, adds empty calories | Strongly not recommended during the weight loss phase. |
| Sweetened Iced Tea | No | High in sugar | Sugary beverages are strictly prohibited. |
| Milk | Condiment (restricted) | Contains calories and carbs | Unsweetened, low-fat milk alternatives are allowed in limited quantities as a condiment. |
Navigating Condiments and Add-Ins
For drinks like coffee and tea, it is important to use approved add-ins to stay on plan. The Optavia condiment sheet provides specific serving sizes for things like unsweetened milks and flavorings. Zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit can be used. For creaminess, a small amount of unsweetened almond or cashew milk is usually allowed as part of the daily condiment amount. Using a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or unsweetened cocoa powder is also a great way to add flavor without sugar.
Conclusion: Making the Right Drink Choices
Staying hydrated is a key part of the Optavia program, and there are many acceptable drink options to choose from. While plain water should be the main focus, unsweetened coffee, tea, and zero-calorie diet sodas can be enjoyed in moderation. The key is to be careful of hidden calories and sugars that can hurt progress and to strictly avoid alcohol and other sweetened drinks. By following these guidelines, beverage choices can support weight loss and overall health goals on the Optavia plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most recommended drink on Optavia?
The most recommended drink is plain water, with a minimum daily goal of 64 ounces.
Can diet soda be consumed on Optavia?
Yes, diet sodas with zero calories and zero carbohydrates are allowed in moderation, but the carbonation may cause bloating for some individuals.
Is alcohol permitted on Optavia?
No, alcohol is not recommended on the Optavia program because it adds empty calories, contains carbohydrates, and can stop the body from burning fat.
What can be added to coffee on Optavia?
Approved zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia, a small amount of unsweetened almond milk as a condiment, or a dash of unsweetened spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can be added.
Are sports drinks like Gatorade Zero allowed on Optavia?
Some zero-calorie sports drinks like Gatorade Zero are sometimes allowed, but it is important to check the label and moderate how much is consumed.
Can fruit-flavored water be consumed on Optavia?
Yes, infused water can be made by adding slices of approved fruits like lemon or cucumber. Optavia also offers flavored water infusers. However, it is important to use real fruit and avoid sugary flavorings.
Are Optavia's own drinks included in the daily beverage intake?
Optavia's branded drinks, such as shakes and flavored mix-ins, are 'Fuelings' or hydration products and are included in the daily meal plan, not just extra drinks.
