How to Drink Coffee on Optavia
Optavia is a meal-replacement and lifestyle program created by Medifast to help people lose weight and develop healthy habits for living. Unlike traditional diets focused on restricting caloric intake, Optavia teaches sustainable eating habits that fuel the body and encourage lifelong health, wellbeing, and weight management. Although all participants are encouraged to begin by drinking eight glasses of water daily and steer away from sweet, sugary drinks, many people often ask: “Can I drink coffee on Optavia?”
Yes. Coffee is acceptable to drink while consuming Optavia, but it’s important to pay attention to the types of coffee preparations and ingredients used as not all are Optavia-friendly. Any beverage can easily become a calorie- and sugar-bomb when dolloped with cream, sugar, syrups, and excessive flavoring. Optavia encourages participants to enjoy coffee responsibly and to find ways to make the beverage work in an Optavia lifestyle. To help shed light on the topic, we spoke to nutrition and fitness experts Dr. Rachel Ward and Dr. Alex Dionne to get the lowdown on coffee and Optavia.
What Does the Research Say About Coffee and Weight Loss?
Coffee has long been associated with weight loss – but why is this? Dr. Ward explains: “It’s important to distinguish that the weight loss-potential of coffee isn’t necessarily from the coffee itself, but from the stimulant contained in coffee: caffeine. Caffeine has long been known to increase metabolic rate and decrease appetite, making it useful for weight loss.” Dr. Dionne further explains that different people may react differently to caffeine – some may not even notice a difference in energy or appetite-control when consuming it, while others may feel an immediate spike in alertness and a decrease in hunger cravings. But, Dr. Dionne reiterates that caffeine should not be seen as a ‘magic pill’ – instead, it should be used as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
When it comes to the weight-loss potential of coffee and Optavia, Dr. Ward believes it is important to consider the other ingredients you’re consuming alongside the black beverage. “Drinking coffee with cream and sugar will add extra calories to your diet that should be considered in your daily totals,” she warns. “Making coffee with skim milk or non-calorie sweeteners is one way to make coffee work for weight loss.” Dr. Dionne also recommends being mindful of extra additives like flavorings, syrups, and other sugary ingredients when considering coffee and Optavia.
What Is the Best Type of Coffee to Drink on Optavia?
The best type of coffee to drink on Optavia is the least processed form: black coffee. Black coffee is naturally calorie-free, has zero added sugars and carbohydrates, and contains antioxidants associated with a variety of health benefits. However, many people prefer to add cream and sugar to their coffee, in which case they should still be mindful of their total calorie and sugar intake. For those who are trying to add more flavor without the added calories and sugars, Dr. Ward recommends using flavored and natural non-caloric sweeteners, like cinnamon, allspice, or nutmeg, or even a calorie-free and sugar-free creamer.
Many Optavia participants also choose to purchase flavored coffees to enjoy on the program. While some flavored or specialty coffees are calorie-free, it’s important to be aware of ingredients like added sugars, syrups, and creamers, which can add up quickly. Just one tablespoon of flavored syrup can equal around 40 calories, so be sure to check the nutrition label and ingredient list before enjoying your favorite fancy frappuccino.
Can I Drink Decaf Coffee on Optavia?
Yes. Decaffeinated coffee is an acceptable beverage on Optavia and it contains virtually no calories or sugar. However, many commercial decaffs contain added sweeteners such as sugar, syrups, and creams, so participants should still be aware of their daily sugar and calorie intake.
The addition of milk and cream to decaf coffee can also lead to an undesirable spike in calories and fat. To keep calories and fat balanced, lighter creamers like skim milk are recommended for limit the caloric additions, but for those looking for a richer flavor and texture, Dr. Dionne recommends experimenting with a non-dairy creamer or trying non-caloric nut milks.
What Else Should I Consider Before Drinking Coffee on Optavia?
Due to the stimulant effects of caffeine, Dr. Dionne recommends consuming coffee in the morning and avoiding caffeine after lunchtime, as caffeine may interfere with sleep and rest.
Dr. Dionne also encourages mindful consumption and making sure participants are aware of what they’re consuming. She recommends using caffeine to enhance and optimize one’s experience, but not as a crutch to cope with exhaustion. Furthermore, Optavia participants should be aware of the recommended daily intake levels of caffeine, usually 400 milligrams – which is the equivalent to two or three cups of brewed coffee – as consuming too much caffeine may lead to jitteriness and other health issues.
How Can Coffee Work for Optavia Participants?
Coffee can work for Optavia participants but it’s important to be mindful of the type and ingredients added. For those who want to enjoy black coffee, there’s virtually no restriction – just stick to one cup. Those who want to add creamer and sweetener should use non-caloric options, such as skim milk and stevia, or opt for naturally flavored, calorie-free coffees.
In addition to being mindful of type and ingredients when it comes to coffee, Dr. Ward also stresses the importance of creating positive, sustainable habits. She encourages experimenting with different coffees and flat whites to create Optavia-approved coffee drinks and make the beverage work for one’s lifestyle.
What Should I Know Before Drinking Espresso While on Optavia?
Espresso is a concentrated coffee that packs a lot of punch and can be like rocket fuel for those looking for a caffeine boost. Dr. Ward recommends listening to one’s body to determine how much is a safe amount – as espresso is more concentrated than regular drip coffee it is generally easier to over-consume caffeine from drinking espresso. Dr. Dionne also encourages being mindful of the size and type of espresso being consumed as they vary greatly and can easily tip the calorie scales.
Participants who opt for a cappuccino on Optavia can also be mindful of their drink’s calorie and fat count by looking out for added ingredients like sugars, flavored syrups, and heavy cream. Skim or plant-based milks and calorie-free sweeteners are encouraged for healthier options.
What Are the Benefits of Drinking Coffee on Optavia?
The benefits of drinking coffee on Optavia depend on the ingredients and how the beverage is prepared. When made in its purest form – black – coffee is naturally calorie-free and can provide participants with antioxidants to support their health and wellbeing. The addition of non-caloric and antioxidant-rich ingredients like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg can take coffee to the next level, while providing additional health buffer benefits.
For those looking for a calorie-free energy boost, caffeine found in black coffee may be beneficial and can help increase metabolic rate while possibly diminishing one’s appetite. However, Dr. Ward notes it’s important not to drink caffeine in excess as it may cause jitters, insomnia, and headaches.
What Should I Know Before Drinking Instant Coffee on Optavia?
Instant coffee is widely available and often a go-to for those looking for convenience. Instant coffees usually contain fewer calories and sugars than those bought from coffee shops, but participants should still read the labels and be aware of the type and ingredients of their preferred instant blend. The addition of creamers and sugars can take instant coffee from a zero-calorie beverage to a ~200 calorie drink, and should be judged as any other coffee for calorie considerations.
For those looking for a healthier version of instant, Dr. Dionne recommends trying a powdered instant coffee with no added sugars, syrups, or creamers. Coffee beverages made from brewed coffee can also work as an Optavia-friendly instant and are a great way to ensure that ingredients meet expectations.
What Should I Know Before Adding Sweeteners on Optavia?
For those who love adding sweeteners to their coffee, there are ways to make the addition beneficial for Optavia. Non-caloric sweeteners like stevia, Swerve, and Splenda are great options to add sweetness without adding extra calories into participants’ diets. Some artificial sweeteners, however, contain ingredients like aspartame that are linked to health risks and participants should always monitor their intake to ensure they are consuming within the recommended limits.
Some natural sweeteners like honey and maple syrup contain subtle nutritional benefits, however, they should be consumed in moderation as they are relatively high in sugars and calories. Flavourings like cinnamon and allspice are also good, calorie-free options to consider and can be a great way to add an extra layer of complexity to Optavia-approved coffee drinks.
