Optavia Fueling substitutes are cost-effective snacks you can enjoy in place of the official Optavia Fuelings, especially when you’re following the DIY Optimal Weight 5 & 1 Plan. These alternatives include beef jerky, protein puffs, cereals, yogurts, and more, all of which have fewer than 150 calories and contain at least 10 grams of protein.
These substitute fuelings for Optavia not only save you money but also provide the freedom to customize your ingredients. Whether you’re following the 5 and 1 plan and have run out of Optavia Fuelings, seeking soy-free options, aiming for higher protein per serving, or simply want easily accessible choices at local stores without the hassle of ordering through an Optavia coach, they’ve got you covered.
For Optavia Fueling substitutes under 100 calories, try No Cow Marshmallow Crunchies with 7g of plant protein per bar. For a budget-friendly, high-protein option, choose Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake, offering 20g per serving. For top-tier, soy-free Optavia Fueling alternatives, Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein shakes with ProHydrolase are stomach-friendly and highly recommended.
These would be my recommendations if a close friend of mine were looking for cheaper alternatives to Optavia Fuelings. However, for more detailed product reviews and store-bought Optavia Fuelings, the following list covers 21 Optavia fueling substitutes. It also explains Optavia Lean and Green meal substitutes, how to find similar products to Optavia, and how to substitute Optavia snacks during the DIY 5 and 1 plan.
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1. No Cow Blueberry Cobbler Protein Bar
The No Cow protein bar stands out as a top choice among soy-free Optavia fueling substitutes. It’s not only less expensive but also contains up to 22g of protein per serving, depending on the flavor you pick. In addition to being soy-free, it’s also dairy-free, certified gluten-free, and non-GMO.
What I like about No Cow protein bars is that they are readily available from online retail stores like Walmart or Amazon, as well as on their official website. And unlike Optavia Fuelings, you don’t need a coach to get started. The only downside is they have twice as many calories as Optavia Fuelings, with 200 kcal per serving and around 25 grams of carbohydrates. In other words, one serving of a No Cow bar is comparable to two Optavia Fuelings, so I usually split it in half to match the serving size. This means each half, equivalent to one Optavia Fueling, costs only $1.35.
Unlike Optavia products, No Cow bars are made with pea and rice protein instead of soy protein isolate. They also use stevia, monk fruit, and erythritol as sweeteners. The taste is unreal. It’s kind of like you’re eating blueberry pie straight out of the tub but without the guilt and calories.
In my opinion, this bar is the most solid offering from No Cow, perfectly fitting the bill as a plant-based snack. It doesn’t taste chalky; instead, the flavor is pleasant and seamless. It’s fruity and sweet, yet the sweeteners are subtly balanced and don’t overpower the taste.
Honestly, I haven’t come across many negative reviews for these bars, which is why I’m giving them a solid rating of 4.7 EPS (Eat Proteins Score) points. For the most favorable deals, I recommend going to the No Cow website.
2. Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
The Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate stands out as the top protein shake for replacing Optavia fuelings. Each serving is under 100 kcal and packs over 22 grams of high-quality, grass-fed protein sourced from EU dairy farmers. This whey protein, from cows free of hormones and steroids, offers 24 servings per pouch and mixes exceptionally well.
It’s very low in carbs, making it versatile enough to blend with almond milk or plain Greek yogurt, pushing the protein content over 30 grams per serving. Add a scoop of avocado and 1/2 cup of cucumber, and you’ve got an Optavia Fueling substitute that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Momentous Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate received a rating of 4.5 EPRS points becasue boasts a clean label with only 8 ingredients, a stark contrast to the 34 found in Optavia Fuelings. While it offers a great taste, if you prefer to avoid steviol glycosides or other sweeteners, the unflavored option is a smart choice.
Now, Momentous isn’t the most budget-friendly compared to other protein powders. There are cheaper alternatives. Even so, its per-serving cost is still more economical than Optavia fueling. So, while you could just walk into your nearest Costco to find a similar product, everything about Momentous just screams quality and value.
3. No Cow Mighty Treats Marshmallow Crunchies
No Cow Mighty Treats is the best Optavia Fueling substitute under 100 calories. They’re essentially a bite-sized version of the previously mentioned No Cow protein bars but with only 90 calories per serving. Unlike some of the Optavia Fuelings, such as the Sweet Blueberry Biscuit or Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix, which require microwaving, No Cow Mighty Treats are ready to eat. In my opinion, the primary advantage of No Cow Mighty Treats is their 7g of plant protein (soy-free) per serving, priced at under $2.00 each, compared to Optavia Fuelings, which cost $3.32 each. Each box contains 18 pieces, and they taste best when chilled in the fridge.
However, I’m not going to sugarcoat it—they’re quite small, even smaller than Optavia Fuelings. In my opinion, they don’t completely satisfy my hunger. But if you’re okay with the serving size of Optavia bars, these are just like them, only more budget-friendly.
With 7g of plant protein, zero sugar, and only 5g of net carbs, each bar packs just 90 calories, making them an excellent alternative to Optavia Fuelings. Like other No Cow products, they’re dairy-free, gluten-free, kosher, non-GMO, soy-free, and vegan. You can find No Cow Marshmallow Crunchies on their website, which often offers steep discounts. Just keep in mind that No Cow offers two different types of Mighty Treats – Marshmallow Crunchies (in a blue box) and Peanut Butter Cups (in a red box), with the latter containing twice as many calories.
4. Dr. Kellyann Bone Broth
Dr. Kellyann’s Bone Broth is a dietary product known for its potential health benefits, according to the Dr. Kellyann’s Bone Broth Diet. In my opinion, bone broth is an excellent Optavia fueling substitute for soup because it has only 70 calories and is packed with 16 grams of protein. However, I’m not gonna lie, at $60 for 2 boxes, it’s not the cheapest option out there, especially when compared to Optavia Fuelings.
On the plus side, Dr. Kellyann’s Bone Broth also contains zero sugar and only 5 grams of net carbs, which is half of the carbs in Optavia fuelings. Additionally, it includes ingredients like reishi mushroom powder, believed to have health benefits, as well as other ingredients such as chicken bone broth powder, grass-fed beef collagen, minced green onion, garlic powder, cauliflower, parsley, and turmeric extract, making it flavorful and savory despite its low sodium content.
A 2023 study by Ga Hyeon Baek and others suggests that collagen-rich foods like bone broth may help with weight loss by stopping the usual increase in obesity-related bacteria and encouraging the growth of bacteria known to help fight obesity. Personally, I’m not a fan of the texture of this bone broth. It tends to be clumpy and thick, with particles and powder often floating on top. If you’re particular about texture, these clumps might not be to your liking, and you might need to heat it longer for a smoother consistency.
5. Orgain Clean Protein Shake
If you’re looking for Optavia fuelings from the grocery store, the Orgain Clean Protein Shake is the perfect on-the-go low-carb option. It’s convenient and ready to drink wherever and whenever you need it. Unlike Optavia shakes, it doesn’t require mixing and comes in a recyclable cardboard bottle. Plus, it provides a substantial 20g of protein per serving with only 130 calories. Two things I don’t like about Orgain Clean Protein Shake are that it’s overly sweet, and I don’t find it satisfying in terms of taste, especially the vanilla flavor. And, this product only comes in two flavors, so you might want to skip the vanilla.
The chocolate flavor is okay, but it feels more like a protein drink than a shake, which leaves me feeling a bit hungry afterward. The aftertaste is also okay; it doesn’t taste like chocolate-flavored toothpaste with a horrible artificial aftertaste. This photo shows the full 12-pack of 20g Orgain Clean Protein Shake – creamy chocolate fudge.
The price is under $2.40 per serving, making it a budget-friendly substitute for Optavia fueling. These clean protein shakes are soy-free and made from plant-based or grass-fed milk protein. They contain only 9 grams of carbohydrates, are gluten-free for individuals with gluten sensitivities, and are also Kosher certified.
6. Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake
Muscle Milk Zero Protein Shake is the perfect substitute for Optavia Fuelings when you’re on a budget but still want high-protein options. I recently tried it, and it completely exceeded my expectations in terms of taste, satiety, and price. This shake has only 100 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 7 grams of carbs. Despite the name ‘Muscle Milk,’ it’s not just for athletes; I find it ideal as an all-around meal replacement. It deserves a solid 4.4 EPRS rating.
The taste is unbelievably good, and that’s coming from someone who usually finds zero-sugar shakes to be bland and artificial-tasting. In my opinion, all Muscle Milk protein shakes taste fantastic, but none of the others match up to Optavia Essential Fuelings in terms of calories. Muscle Milk Light Vanilla, for example, has only 100 calories and 20g of protein per serving, priced at just over $2.00, compared to Optavia Fueling at $3.32 per serving. In my opinion, it has the perfect texture, making it a great afternoon snack or creamy enough to use as a high-protein coffee creamer.
One drawback is that Amazon offers only one vanilla flavor, while chocolate and strawberry options are available elsewhere. If you’re looking for more variety, consider trying Mule Milk Pro, which offers four flavors. On the good side, despite being a Gatorade product, Muscle Milk Protein Shake contains minimal artificial ingredients; it’s free from soy, erythritol, and artificial sweeteners. In my opinion, this substitute is a great choice not only for Optavia 5 and 1 but also for the maintenance phase of the program, including 3 and 3.
7. Shrewd Food Protein Puffs
Shrewd Food Protein Puffs are Fuelings similar to Optavia poppers and crunchers but have more proteins per serving, and come with eight cool flavors such as Totally Taco, Nacho Cheese, or Brick Oven Pizza. I’m a huge fan of Shrewd Food Protein Puffs as an evening snack, mainly because they are low in calories and sodium. Unlike other snacks that tend to make me overeat, these keep me satisfied, though I can’t help but lick my fingers. If you’re conscious about your sodium levels, choose the Sweet Thai Chilli flavor, as it contains only 160 mg of sodium. Plus, they’re soy-free. I have multiple food allergies and I can’t just buy any snacks off the shelf with gluten and soy.
When comparing Shrewd Food Protein Puffs to Optavia fuelings, one 21-gram serving of Shrewd Food’s Brick Oven Pizza flavor offers 14g of protein (derived from milk protein isolate), just 2g of carbs, and 90 calories. This keto-friendly snack is not only low in carbs but also gluten-free and free from artificial flavors and preservatives. In contrast, Optavia Essential Zesty Cheddar & Italian Herb Crunchers contains 100 calories, 12 grams of soy protein concentrate, as well as tapioca starch, soy protein isolate, and soybean oil. Unlike Optavia crunchers, poppers, and sticks, one bag of Shrewd Food Protein Puffs costs $2.49 directly from the Shrewd Food website and $1.78 on the Amazon website.
8. Magic Spoon Cereal
Since starting the DIY Optavia diet, I’ve switched to Magic Spoon cereal as my go-to alternative for Optavia breakfast fuelings. Magic Spoon Cereal is a product from a company called Magic Spoon. They produce healthy, flavorful cereals without sugar, which are low in carbs and high in protein, primarily using natural ingredients. Instead of having Optavia Breakfast style Fuelings, I choose to have 1 cup (38 grams) of Magic Spoon cereal, which contains around 13 grams of protein—similar to Optavia’s Essential Apple & Cinnamon Spiced Oatmeal. The best part is that instead of paying $3.32 per serving, I rather spend $1.95 on Magic Spoon cereal through Amazon.
One serving of Magic Spoon Cereals contains between 140-160 calories, slightly higher than Optavia. However, it boasts a lower sugar content and avoids gluten, grains, and artificial additives. Although Optavia Fuelings has 10 grams of protein per serving, the protein is derived from soy protein isolate and soy protein concentrate.
According to a 2015 study by Stephan van Vliet published in The Journal of Nutrition:
‘Soy protein contains fewer essential amino acids (EAAs) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) than whey.’
In contrast, Magic Spoon has 13 grams of protein per serving, using a milk protein blend that includes whey protein and casein concentrate. Additionally, among various Optavia cereal substitutes, Magic Spoon stands out as it is half the price compared to other brands.
9. Jack Link’s Beef Jerky
Many beef jerky products can serve as Fueling substitutes for Optavia, but after testing dozens of them, my favorite is Jack Link’s Beef Jerky Original. Unlike other processed meats like pepperoni, sausages, or hot dogs, this jerky is made from lean cuts of 100% beef, it has minimal sodium, fat, and additives, with no added MSG or nitrates. In terms of taste, I prefer the Original flavor as I’m not a fan of overly spicy meats. The serving size is around 80 grams, which keeps me satisfied for 2-3 hours until I start feeling hungry again.
In terms of price, Jack Link’s Beef Jerky comes to around $1.39 per serving, depending on the amount and discounts available. So even if you double your serving size to 160 grams, it’s still a more budget-friendly option compared to munching on Optavia Fueling. I have to confess that I’m a huge fan of dry beef (or turkey) snacks, and I often find it, well, challenging to stick to just one serving size.
While there are better jerky options available, such as Jeff’s Famous, Country Archer Jerky, or Brooklyn Biltong, they tend to be roughly twice as expensive as Jack Link’s. That’s why I prefer to order this one. I even received a special note with my order, which was a nice touch. However, the drawback of Jack Link’s is the spices; I found the jerky to be a bit too salty at times. Additionally, if you buy the large pack size, it tends to get dry and hard much faster if not eaten quickly.
10. Slate Milk
Slate Milk is an Optavia Fueling alternative that offers a unique twist on classic chocolate milk. It was originally presented on “Shark Tank” by founders Manny Lubin and Josh Belinsky, who aimed to reinvent chocolate milk for adults. Unlike traditional chocolate milk, Slate Milk is positioned as a “better-for-you” option with more protein and 75% less sugar, containing no more than 100 calories per can.
For me, the best thing about Slate Milk is that it’s lactose-free, contains 20g of protein, and has only one net carbs, with zero sugar. And the fact that it tastes great is just a bonus. It makes for an excellent snack option for the snack at the office, post-workout drink, or even a road trip. When it comes to flavor, I recommend classic chocolate because it offers fantastic taste and texture, along with the convenience of the can. Personally, I find it tastes best when chilled. Plus, it’s high in protein and doesn’t contain a bunch of fake sugars like some other protein shakes.
The drawback of Slate Milk is its cost; it’s quite pricey. As much as I like the taste, this one is over $3.10 per serving, which is not too far away from the cost of Optavia Fuelings. You can find some online deals, but it’s not too common. You can try some cheaper alternatives which I haven’t tried yet, such as Atkins chocolate milk or Gatorade Super Shake.
11. Atkins Protein Chips
Atkins Protein Chips are one of those snacks equivalent to Optavia fuelings for a fun Saturday night with friends, and they’re not your typical chips because they’re baked. They’ve got everything you love about a chip but without piling on the unwanted carbs. In my opinion, Atkins Protein Chips are not only tastier than Optavia crunchers but also manage to keep me fuller for longer.
One serving of Atkins Protein Chips contains 13 grams of whey protein isolate and milk protein isolate, with no soy or erythritol. However, it has double the amount of sodium compared to Optavia fuelings. The best part is that you only consume 130 calories per serving, which costs just $1.91 – almost half the price of Optavia snacks.
What I like most about these chips is their versatility. You can use them not only as replacements for Optavia fuelings but also to create low-calorie Lean and Green meals, such as nachos, casseroles, and chilaquiles. Whether you’re following a strict Optavia 5 and 1 plan or not, substituting regular tortilla chips with Atkins Protein Chips is a healthier choice in terms of carbs, calories, and sodium. One drawback is that they don’t come in a natural, unflavored option, unlike plain tortilla chips.
12. Orgain Protein Bar
Orgain Protein Bar is a great option for those seeking Fueling bars similar to Optavia, especially if you prefer plant-based choices. It’s dairy-free, soy-free, and lactose-free. While it does have slightly more calories than Optavia Fuelings, it did keep me feeling full, earning it a 4.3 EPRS rating. It claims to be low carb, but it generally has a bit more carbs than Optavia bars, with 19 grams per serving and only 2 grams of fiber.
In my opinion, the taste of this bar is fantastic, and it’s loaded with 10 grams of protein, meeting the expectations of a plant-based fueling alternative. It’s free from trans fats, cholesterol, gluten, and GMOs, and is Kosher-certified. The bar has a chocolaty and chewy texture without sticking to your teeth. It’s comparable to Optavia Bars, but it can get a bit soft and melty if left out of the fridge for too long.
My main concern is the added sugar (6 grams) and the presence of erythritol and sugar alcohols, which is something to keep in mind. So, if you’re not too concerned about extra carbs, and you just want something cheaper than Optavia but without soy or lactose, these are great choices. If you’re meticulous about your calorie intake, I would recommend opting for something lighter, like Greek or protein yogurt.
13. Oikos Triple Zero
Oikos Triple Zero is a great replacement for Optavia Fuelings because it’s affordable, very creamy, has only 90 calories per serving, and packs 15 grams of protein. The serving size is generous at 150 grams per full cup with zero grams of added sugar, so you feel satisfied for hours. If you asked me to choose just one type of replacement for Optavia Fuelings and call it a day, it would be Oikos yogurt because of how full it makes me feel. The only drawback I have is that, unlike Optavia Fuelings, I can’t keep yogurt unrefrigerated, so it’s not ideal on the go.
Oikos offers even higher protein yogurt options, like Oikos Pro with 20 grams of protein and Oikos Blended with 14 grams of Protein. These varieties come in dozens of interesting flavors such as Cherry, Vanilla Bean, and Blueberry. Taste-wise, I tried a few Oikos Pro flavors like mixed berry, peach, and strawberry banana. The mixed berry was a hit, but the peach and vanilla were just okay, and they all had that Stevia aftertaste I’m not too keen on.
If you’re not concerned about the extra 30 calories, I would suggest choosing Oikos Pro. With only 50 mg of sodium and 8 grams of carbohydrates, Oikos Pro yogurt is my go-to pre-workout snack when I need a quick energy boost without feeling too full or bloated. However, if you want to be precise and match ingredients with Optavia Fuelings, I recommend sticking to Triple Zero.
According to the article published in the online shopping publication SheFinds:
“Oikos Yogurt is the best morning yogurt for weight loss over 40”
14. Dannon Light + Fit Nonfat Greek Yogurt
Dannon Light & Fit yogurt is another yogurt similar to Optavia Fuelings. While it may not be as expensive as fancy brands like Oikos or Siggi’s, it tastes great and provides 12 grams of protein for 80 calories. The yogurt is pretty good, especially for a low-calorie option. It has a nice creamy and smooth texture, but it does have a slightly tart and chalky aftertaste. However, overall, it’s a tasty, cost-effective option that works well for my stomach issues.
Okay, now let’s talk about the pros. What I like most about this yogurt is its price—$3.98 for 4 packs, which is less than $1.00 per serving. That’s three times cheaper than Optavia Fuelings. I would argue that this is the cheapest alternative I’ve managed to find. Another advantage is the variety it offers, with over 20 different flavors.
My personal favorite is caramel apple pie. However, on the downside, it’s not always easy to find. I’ve tried searching for it on Amazon and it’s often out of stock, the same goes for Costco. And it contains artificial flavors. If artificial flavors are a deal breaker for you, make sure to check out other Optavia-approved yogurts from our homepage that use only natural sweeteners.
15. Seapoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame
Seapoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame offers a similar option to Optavia Fuelings but without a hefty price tag. It makes an excellent mid-day snack between meals. Unlike Optavia Fuelings, which are usually sweet, Seapoint Farms snack packs come with interesting flavors such as wasabi, sea salt, seaweed, and more. I’ve tried it all, and sea salt is my favorite; wasabi is too spicy. Unlike other salted snacks, Seapoint Farms Edamame has less than 150mg of sodium. Although it has 20 more calories than Optavia Fuelings, the price is $2.60 per container, which provides around 3 servings each, making it approximately $0.86 per serving.
One serving of Seapoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame contains 130 calories and 13 grams of protein. While I’m not particularly fond of plant-based snacks, I find this brand appealing. They offer a variety of weight loss-friendly options, including fancy seaweed crisps, roasted peas, beans, chickpeas, lentils, edamame, and more. According to the Boston Globe Magazine, “Seapoint Farms Dry Roasted Edamame is the best plant-based snack to consider in 2022.“
The only downside to this snack is that the main ingredient is soy. However, the 8 grams of fiber found in each serving helps balance out the nutrition profile. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a healthier Optavia option compared to processed bars, shakes, or brownies, I suggest checking out this brand.
16. Tillamook Beef Jerky
Tillamook Beef Jerky is another addition to your Optavia fueling alternatives list. I have a serious weakness for Tillamook beef jerky; it’s hardwood smoked, contains no artificial ingredients, zero sugar, and 0g of total carbs per serving. The funny thing is, it hardly costs $2.50 per serving. In terms of taste, I’ve tried them all. Sea Salt & Pepper, Honey Glazed, and Spicy & Sweet top my list. This snack comes in handy when I want something light to munch on or a healthy replacement for processed Optavia bars. One serving of Tillamook beef jerky keeps me satisfied much longer compared to most of the Optavia Fuelings. With 10g of protein per serving, all-natural beef jerky might just become your new go-to snack on the run.
Although each serving of Tillamook Beef Jerky (around 3 sticks) has a whopping 500 mg of sodium, which is much more than Optavia Fuelings, it only contains 70 calories with approximately 14 grams of protein and 0 carbs. So, if you’re looking to reduce your sodium intake, it’s best to skip this one. To ensure I control my calorie intake, I don’t use any dips or sauces. I enjoy the taste straight from the pack. Apart from its unbeatable taste, I appreciate that you don’t have to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
17. Chomps Mini Beef Jerky Sticks
Chomps Mini Beef Jerky Sticks are one of the best Optavia 5&1 Fuelings substitutes for office workers who don’t enjoy sweet snacks and prefer a savory option. One serving is one stick, which makes it easy to portion. With only 40 calories per serving, although one stick may not be enough to satisfy your hunger. Unlike other processed meats like salami, chorizo, or sausages, these have less fat, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Each serving contains 4 grams of protein but also has 125 mg of sodium. One bag contains 12 sticks and is frequently available at Costco for $14.99, which translates to $1.25 per serving, making it one-third the price of Optavia fuelings.
In my opinion, Chomps Original Beef sticks are just as you’d expect them to be: slightly smoky and slightly spicy, packed with flavor, which earns them 4.3 EPRS points. I often opt for Chomps’ grass-fed mini beef jerky sticks instead of Optavia bars, especially at work when I’m in the office and don’t have the time or access to cook something. The convenience of opening a pack and popping one in my mouth when needed is a big plus.
18. Popcorners Flex Protein Crisps
Popcorners Flex Protein Crisps are the perfect substitute for Optavia fuelings, whether you’re snacking late at night, enjoying a movie night, or needing a quick, protein-rich bite during busy workdays. I recently discovered Popcorners Flex Protein Crisps, and I must say I am thoroughly impressed. For me, they taste like rice cakes but without the bland and dry flavor. They contain 90-120 calories, depending on the flavor you choose, and 13 grams of carbs per serving, which is the same as most Optavia Fuelings. The only downside, in my opinion, is that the 10 grams of protein are derived from soy protein concentrate.
So, for the most part, Popcorners Flex Protein Crisps are not much different from Optavia poppers or sticks. However, the significant difference lies in the price point, costing only $1.07 per serving, which is a third of the Optavia price. You can purchase the standard variety pack from Amazon (they contain 120 calories per serving). I prefer buying 13 oz bags at Sam’s Club, as each bag has 90 calories and the same 10 grams of protein as the variety packs.
19. ParmCrisps
ParmCrisps Original Oven Baked Crisps are high-protein, gluten-free, and low-sugar snack. Unlike Optavia Fuelings, ParmCrisps are made with 100% aged parmesan cheese and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. In my opinion, if you enjoy cheeses like gorgonzola, parmesan, or brie, you’ll likely love this snack. It’s like eating a cheese jerky, but more crispy and less chewy. These crisps make a perfect anytime snack with a delightful blend of cheesy, salty, and crunchy flavors. They are naturally gluten-free, sugar-free, and low-carb, containing 13g of protein per serving, which is the same as most Optavia fuelings. However, ParmCrisps have 0g of dietary fiber, so they may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a high-fiber snack.
When it comes to flavor, I recommend Parm Crisps Original for its bold cheese taste, making it an ideal snack for those seeking a unique and savory flavor. Other flavors like Sour Cream and onion, Pizza, and Jalapeno are milder in comparison. However, if you’re not a fan of cheese, Original might be too tangy and salty. In terms of nutrition, it’s a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s a 100-calorie snack with 9 grams of protein per serving (19 crisps). On the other hand, it contains 20mg of cholesterol and 230mg of sodium. However, at $2.68 per serving, it’s still a cheaper and healthier option than Optavia meal replacements.
20. Kalahari Biltong
Kalahari Biltong is one of the best Optavia fueling substitutes, especially if price is not a concern. The key difference between jerky and biltong is the preparation method: jerky is cooked and heated for hours, whereas biltong is air-dried for up to three weeks, so it has a much richer flavor. I’ve tried all the flavors, and my favorite is Original.
However, I must confess that I don’t buy this pack very often because it’s pricier than other store-bought Optavia fuelings. Kalahari Biltong offers a premium taste that comes with a slightly higher price tag. One serving of Kalahari Biltong costs $7.50, twice as much as Optavia Fueling and nearly the same price as a Lean and Green meal if ordered online. And even if you eat half of the serving size (80 calories and 16 grams of proteins) it still won’t be cheaper than Optavia.
So yeah, it’s expensive, and one serving 2 oz (56 grams) contains a whopping 760mg of sodium and 80mg of cholesterol, which isn’t ideal for most people watching their blood pressure. However, you do get 32 grams of protein, so if you enjoy the occasional indulgence, it’s worth trying.
21. Veggies Made Great Spinach Egg White Frittata
Veggies Made Great Spinach Egg White Frittata is one of my favorite frozen snacks, comparable to Optavia fuelings, with just 70 calories per serving. Veggies Made Great is a company that sells a line of veggie-rich frozen and refrigerated items with clean ingredients and gluten-free options. One serving equals one frittata, which is about 56 grams. For me, it’s not enough to stay full, but for my wife, who calls them veggie cakes, she feels satisfied.
These frittatas are packed with egg whites, spinach, red peppers, and carrots, so they’re a filling breakfast or snack choice. They’re quick to prepare, taking only seconds to reheat and eat. While they may not have as much protein as Optavia fuelings (around 5 grams per serving), they are gluten-free, soy-free, peanut-free, and tree nut-free, making them a suitable option for various dietary preferences. Not to mention that Walmart’s price at $5.98 for 6 pieces, works out to a very reasonable cost of $0.99 per meal.
How to find Optavia Fueling Substitutes and cheaper alternatives?
The following list shows how to find Optavia fueling substitutes and cheaper alternatives in local stores, groceries, and online markets.
- Check the protein content: Look for bars with at least 10g of protein per bar.
- Check the ingredients list: Choose bars with simple and less processed whole food ingredients.
- Look for added sugar: I recommend avoiding bars with high sugar content. Aim for less than 15g per bar (or per serving if you choose to eat half).
- Check the fiber content: Ideally choose the bars with high fiber content, at least 3g per serving.
- Read online reviews: See what other people have to say about the bars.
If you didn’t find the substitute you were looking for, use the list above on your next grocery shopping. Alternatively, I suggest checking out online places like eBay or Facebook where you can buy Optavia Fuelings for lower prices. People often sell their products (sometimes expired though) so you can find some good deals. Plus, you can always consider experimenting in the kitchen by trying to do a DIY Optavia diet at home, with foods that you already have.
How to create DIY Optavia Fuelings?
To create DIY Optavia Fuelings, focus on replicating their high-protein, low-calorie, and nutrient-rich profile using whole food ingredients like lean meats, whole grains, and vegetables. Experiment with recipes for protein-packed snacks, balanced smoothies, or low-carb meals, ensuring they align with the Optavia plan’s nutritional guidelines.
How can I replicate the Optavia Diet at home on my own?
To replicate the Optavia Diet at home on your own, prepare meals and snacks that are high in protein and fiber but low in calories and carbs, using ingredients like lean meats, non-starchy vegetables, and whole grains. Focus on creating portion-controlled recipes that align with the nutritional balance of Optavia’s 5&1 plan, such as homemade protein bars, vegetable-based soups, and smoothies.
What are the best soy-free substitutes for Optavia Fuelings?
The best substitutes for soy-free Optavia Fuelings include high-protein, low-carb options like Greek yogurt, nuts and seeds, lean meats, and dairy-based protein shakes.
Hi there!
I have been doing the Optavia plan for 6 months now and the customer service and shipping times have been horrible! I would love to replicate this program on my own with healthier Optavia alternatives and access to purchase directly from stores. Are there any online forums or groups out there that you know of? Thanks for your suggestions!
There are heaps of Optavia alternatives and forums available. Check out Reddit and Facebook
Learned so much from your experiences..thank you for the easy to understand format and presentation…I have struggled for years to come up with workable, affordable, solutions so great to have so many at one site!!!!
Great Optavia Fueling substitute list. Just left Costco and got a 12 pack of Chomps for $17, $1.41/serving. And a 10.8 oz bag of Whisps parmesan crisps, 11 servings, on sale for $6.79, 62 cents/serving. And a 23-pack of pure protein bars for $24, which I’ll be splitting in half, 53 cents/serving. What a way to save on fueling options!
I cannot afford the OPTAVIA, but I am wanting to get back healthy and happy. The evening lean and green I can handle and determine what needs to be in the serving. However, I am struggling with the Optavia fuelings substitutes during my day.
I appreciate your list. When I ran out of fuelings this list kept me going.
You’re welcome, Mitzi!
I was so excited to see your list. I discussed with my coach and was advised against alternatives listed. I am a bit conflicted. Not wanting to be out of fat burn, continuing to progress in weight loss while also wanting alternatives for both my wallet and tastebuds. I thought having half an Atkins bar and/or Chomps in place of a couple of Optavia fuelings a day would be great…..HELP!
Assuming Coach can’t suggest off brand items even if they do work?
I’ve had multiple clients try to substitute and NONE of them reached their goal. They started to stall and blamed the program. We don’t suggest off brand because they don’t work. The substitutes given out by coaches during pandemic shortages confused people and were only meant to sustain what loss you’ve already had while waiting for fuelings to arrive and get you back into fat burn. I hope you stuck with your coach and had success. I don’t know why people feel it is expensive. I had more mouths to feed and still saved money because the whole house cut back on empty snacks (two 16 year olds who had been getting free meals at school, breakfast and lunch for one and all meals for the other prior to the shutdown) and ate the lean and green for dinner. If your health is truly a priority, the price is CHEAP! I surpassed my goal, did you make it to yours?
Thanks for putting this together! I really liked some aspects of the 5/1 plan, but it was a disaster for me when I went back to “real” food.
I picked up several of your suggestions today, and look forward to seeing some results.
Thanks!!
If it was a disaster I am suspecting you didn’t transition properly or follow the habits of health you were supposed to be learning throughout weight loss. Good luck, but the nutrition content does not compare and there truly is nothing that will give you the results of the 5&1. I honestly don’t feel that for the quality, the cost is high. I saved money, lost 140 lbs, and I’m keeping it off over 2 years after paying my goal loss.