Coffee creamer is a non-dairy product designed to add a creamy texture and flavor to coffee, as an alternative to milk, while also having a longer shelf life. It is typically made from a combination of water, sugar, and vegetable oil, and it is available in a variety of flavors.
An Optavia approved coffee creamer refers to a creamer that is low in calories, typically under 15 calories per 1 tablespoon, and fits within the guidelines of the Optavia weight loss program. These creamers are typically low in sugar and fat and contain minimum artificial flavors or sweeteners.
When asked what the best coffee creamer for Optavia is, I would suggest Nutpods due to its low-calorie content of 5-10 calories per 15 ml serving and significantly better taste compared to other brands like Walden Farms.
Although I prefer to drink my coffee plain, the benefit of adding creamer to coffee on the Optavia diet is that it can enhance the flavor of your coffee without significantly increasing your calorie intake, making the weight loss process more enjoyable.
However, a 2021 study conducted by Li-Juan Tan from Chung-Ang University found that moderate consumption of coffee creamer was associated with lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and higher fasting blood glucose in Korean male adults. This suggests that even low-calorie creamers could have potential negative health effects.
In this article, we will explore 10 Optavia-approved coffee creamers and touch on related topics, such as whether you can consume heavy cream or coffee creamer by itself while on the Optavia diet. We will also discuss the potential effects of adding excessive amounts of coffee creamer to your diet.
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1. Orgain Collagen Creamer
Orgain’s Collagen Creamer with Oatmilk is a non-dairy creamer that’s designed to give your coffee a nutritional boost. It contains 10g of collagen, MCT, and avocado oil. Collagen is a protein that supports skin, hair, nails, and joints.
This is a non-dairy creamer, so it’s lactose-free. Great news for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options. It’s described as creamy and blends well into coffee. According to my wife, the taste is “true vanilla heaven.”. For me, it has a sweet and pleasant aftertaste. Either way, expect a vanilla-flavored, creamy coffee experience.
Although it contains 10 g of protein, 10 g of collagen, and an impressive list of MCT oils, it also has 90 kcal per serving. For optimal flavor and creaminess, a full scoop is recommended to achieve this creamy effect.
The Orgain Collagen Creamer with Oatmilk is priced at $2.99 per serving. While this might seem steep compared to traditional creamers, you’re getting added nutritional benefits like collagen and healthy fats.
2. Orgain Almond Milk
Orgain Organic Protein Almond Milk it’s an almond milk product that’s jazzed up with 10g of organic, plant-based protein per serving. Unlike your regular almond milk, this one’s got 10x the protein and also provides 15-20% of your daily calcium and vitamin D needs.
It’s smooth and creamy, making it a solid choice for your morning cuppa. Expect a hint of sweetness and a richer, creamier texture. The almond base won’t mess with your coffee’s flavor but will add a nutty undertone.
This Orgain almond milk is priced at $26.99 for 6 cartons. That’s around $4.50 per carton. Traditional creamers can range from $2 to $5 per bottle. So, you might be spending a bit more, but you’re also getting added nutritional benefits.
It’s USDA Organic, so you’re getting the good stuff, no funny business. It’s like giving your coffee a protein-packed hug!
3. Vital Proteins Collagen Coffee Creamer
Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer it’s a dairy-free creamer made from coconut milk, collagen peptides, and natural vanilla flavor. Collagen peptides are short-chain amino acids derived from collagen protein, which is essential for skin, hair, and joint health.
Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer is designed to be mixed into your coffee, offering a creamy texture without dairy. In terms of taste, expect a richer, creamier coffee experience with a hint of vanilla. The collagen peptides are tasteless, so they won’t interfere with your coffee’s natural flavors.
You’re getting about 10 grams of collagen per serving, which supports skin elasticity and joint health. On average, Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer costs around $29 for a 10.6 oz container (12 servings). Traditional creamers can range from $2 to $5 for a similar serving size.
4. Nutpods Coffee Creamer
Nutpods is a dairy-free creamer made from almonds and coconuts. It’s designed to be keto-friendly, Whole30 compliant, gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, sugar-free, and kosher. The main ingredients include water, coconut cream, almonds, and some stabilizers like acacia gum and sunflower lecithin.
Personally, I like Nutpods coffee creamers, especially the almond + coconut. Not only it’s a dairy-free creamer, but it’s also only 5-10 caloires per 15 ml serving. According to my wife, Emiliia, Nutpods coffee creamer is a game-changer. It has a rich, creamy flavor that adds a fantastic touch to her Optavia coffee.
Here’s the photo of her favorite flavor – Nutpods Caramel.
She likes to pick this one becasue it doesn’t contain sugar, gluten, soy, or dairy. Keep in mind that Nutpods coffee creamers have different calories per serving, depending on the type of flavors you choose. When it comes to price, I would not recommend buying directly from the Nutpods website.
Unless you sign up for their subscription, the price is $17.95 for a 4-pack (around $4.48 per container). Instead, it’s better you order one from Amazon or Walmart. They have a good deal for $3.97 per container.
5. Walden Farms Original Creamer
While I love Walden Farms salad dressings, I have mixed feelings about their coffee creamer.
On one hand, it’s calorie-free and a good option for those counting calories. However, its taste leaves much to be desired.
Here’s the photo.
This one has a sweet cream flavor, but it has an artificial sweetener aftertaste, which may be off-putting to some people.
The price of $8.54 for a 12 oz bottle is also not cheap, and you’ll likely have to use more than the recommended serving size to achieve the desired creaminess.
So while it may be useful for special occasions, I would not recommend this creamer as a daily staple.
6. Califia Farms Better Half Creamer
Califia Farms Creamer is a plant-based, dairy-free creamer made primarily from almonds and coconut cream. It’s designed to be a substitute for traditional dairy creamers, offering a vegan and lactose-free option.
It’s specifically formulated to blend well in coffee, providing a creamy texture without the dairy. Here’s the photo of Califia Farms Better Half – another creamer approved on Optavia.
According to the HuffPost article, this creamer is deemed “the best coconut-based coffee creamer” and it’s easy to see why.
The ingredients say it all – coconut cream and almond milk. I was pleasantly surprised by the flavor of the creamer. I mean, it is not as thick as the typical half-and-half, and the taste is significantly better.
Each serving is 30ml, double the size of Nutpods coffee creamer, and contains only 15 calories and zero sugar.
With its mere 1 gram of fat, Califia Farms Better Half Creamer stands out as one of the best sugar-free creamers available for the Optavia diet. The only drawback is the price. For one container, which has only 16 servings, you need to pay $3.49. (A bit disappointing.)
7. Splenda Coffee Creamer
Splenda French Vanilla Liquid Coffee Creamer is a flavored creamer made with non-nutritive sweeteners like sucralose (Splenda). It’s designed to add flavor and creaminess to your coffee without the added sugar.
Here’s the photo of another Optavia-friendly French vanilla coffee creamer that I can recommend – Splenda.
The main perk is the calorie-saving aspect. It is a lightweight sugar-free creamer with only 15 caloires per serving. Traditional creamers can pack in the sugar and fat, but Splenda’s version is often lower in calories and sugar-free.
However, it’s not a significant source of nutrients like protein or fiber. It’s also lactose-free and gluten-free, perfect for anyone who is following a gluten-free lifestyle.
Although I don’t find the taste of Splenda Coffee Creamer to be somehow superior to the previously mentioned brands, I like its price. Protein shakes can be pricier, averaging around $2-$3 per serving, while traditional coffee creamers can cost as little as $0.10-$0.20 per serving.
I mean, I can buy the container with 63 servings at Walmart for $6.49. So, even though it may seem expensive, you’ll actually be spending less in the long run.
8. Milkadamia Macadamia and Coconut Creamer
As a lactose intolerant, my wife has tried a multitude of coffee creamers, but Milkadamia was the one that finally hit the spot!
With its smooth, creamy texture and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a winner in our book.
Here’s the photo of one of her favorite – Unsweetened vanilla creamer.
I also tried this creamer. And, I must confess – the taste was out of this world. Unlike other creamers, it doesn’t curdle in the coffee and leaves a delicious aftertaste from every sip.
Plus, it has only 10 calories per serving and 32 servings per container. So if you’re on the hunt for a lactose-free creamer, we highly recommend giving Milkadamia a go!
9. Premier Protein Shake
A good Optavia coffee creamer hack is to use low-calorie protein shakes, such as Premier Protein.
Plus, it’s an effective way to add extra protein to your diet while still enjoying a delicious and creamy cup of coffee.
Here’s a photo of how I would combine the two.
I like to use Premier Protein shake with Starbucks blonde roast coffee, but it works well with any other coffee. With 160 calories per bottle, it may seem like a lot to add to your coffee.
However, you can easily control the amount you use by portioning it out, much like you would with other coffee creamers. Instead of using a full bottle, try using one or two tablespoons to add just the right amount of creaminess to your coffee.
By doing this, you’ll be adding only 15 calories to your coffee, but also 3 grams of protein, which can help you feel fuller and more satisfied throughout the day. It’s a quick, easy, and effective way to enjoy your coffee and get the protein you need to fuel your day.
10. Starbucks Zero Creamers
Let me be clear – Starbucks Zero Creamer is not low-calorie by any means. In fact, it has 40 calories per serving and 6 grams of carbs.
Despite its higher calorie and carb content, this creamer is definitely worth trying for its fantastic taste.
Its rich, creamy flavor adds a delicious boost to your coffee, making it feel like you’re having a homemade Starbucks coffee in the comfort of your own home. At a price of $5.68 for 40 servings, it may be a bit more expensive than other options, but the taste more than makes up for it.
What types of coffee creamers are recommended on the Optavia diet?
Optavia generally promotes low-calorie, low-sugar options. Unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk are often recommended as creamer substitutes. Avoid creamers with added sugar or high-fat content.
How do coffee creamers impact coffee’s nutrition on Optavia?
Adding high-sugar or high-fat creamers can quickly turn your coffee into a calorie bomb, which is not ideal for Optavia’s low-calorie focus. Stick to low-calorie, unsweetened options to keep your coffee Optavia-friendly.
What types of coffee are recommended on the Optavia diet?
Black coffee, espresso, and Americano are the types of coffee recommended for the Optavia diet. These options should be limited to up to 15 kcal per serving to align with the diet’s guidelines. So, if you’re a coffee lover, sticking to these low-calorie options can help you enjoy your coffee on Optavia without derailing your weight loss goals.
Can you use Optavia fuelings as coffee creamer substitutes?
No, Optavia fuelings are designed to be low in calories and high in nutrients. While not specifically made to be coffee creamers, some people do use them as a creamer substitute to add flavor and nutrients to their coffee.
What Are The Most Affordable Coffee Creamers To Buy On Optavia?
The most affordable coffee creamers to buy on Optavia are those that offer a high number of servings for a low price. One such option is Splenda Coffee Creamer, which is available at Walmart for approximately $0.10 per serving, making it a budget-friendly choice for those following the Optavia diet.
What Happens When You Drink A Heavy Cream On an Optavia?
If you consume a heavy coffee creamer on Optavia, it can significantly increase your calorie intake, which may hinder your weight loss goals. It is generally not recommended to add high-calorie creamers like heavy cream, such as Land O Lakes, while on Optavia.
Instead, you can opt for low-calorie protein shakes like Premier Protein or Atkins shakes as a coffee creamer alternative. Another option is to use calorie-free sweeteners like Splenda Naturals or Monk Fruit to enhance the flavor of your coffee without adding extra calories.
Is It Safe To Have Coffee Creamer On The Optavia Diet?
Yes, it is safe to drink coffee creamers on Optavia, as long as they have low calories (under 15 calories per 1 tablespoon). That’s less than half of what you’d get from popular varieties like Nestle Coffee-mate French Vanilla or International Delight.
What Happens When You Drink Too Much Coffee Creamer On Optavia?
Drinking too much coffee creamer while on the Optavia diet could potentially interfere with your weight loss progress. Even though some creamers are low in calories, consuming them in large amounts can still add to your daily calorie intake.
