Can You Have Chicken Sausage on Optavia?

Optavia is a popular weight loss program that emphasizes lean proteins, vegetables and portion control. Many dieters wonder if foods like chicken sausage can fit into the Optavia meal plan or if they should be avoided. In this article, we’ll take a close look at Optavia guidelines and see if and how chicken sausage can be included.

An Overview of Optavia

First, let’s review the basics of the Optavia diet. Optavia provides pre-made shakes, bars, soups, oatmeals, and other convenience foods to help simplify weight loss. These products provide balanced nutrition and portion control.

In addition to the pre-made items, Optavia coaches clients on preparing lean protein and vegetable “Fuelings” for meals and snacks. Recommended proteins include fish, poultry, eggs, meat, and plant-based options like tofu. The diet favors leaner cuts of meat.

There is an emphasis on non-starchy vegetables for fiber and nutrients. Starchy veggies, grains, fruits, dairy, oils, and fats are limited, especially in the initial rapid weight loss phase of Optavia.

The Benefits of Lean Protein on Optavia

Lean proteins are encouraged on Optavia for a few important reasons:

• Provide satisfying protein to prevent hunger and cravings
• Help maintain and build muscle mass during weight loss
• Less calories and fat compared to fattier cuts of meat
• Nutrient-dense, providing vitamins and minerals

Chicken and turkey sausage made from lean ground meat can fit the criteria for healthy Optavia proteins. But dieters need to be mindful of preparation, ingredients, and portions.

Optavia-Approved Chicken Sausage Options

Not all chicken sausages are created equal. Here are some smart choices within Optavia guidelines:

• Fresh, uncooked chicken sausage with minimal added fat
• Lower-sodium options
• Lots of veggies mixed into the sausage
• Minimal added sugars or unhealthy preservatives
• Reasonable portion sizes of 3-5 oz per serving

Some specific products that fit the bill include:

• Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage
• Applegate Organics Chicken & Spinach Sausage
• Trader Joe’s Chicken Apple Sausage

Checking labels to verify ingredients and nutritional content is advised.

Tips for Preparing Chicken Sausage on Optavia

It’s not enough just to choose a healthy chicken sausage. Proper preparation is also important:

• Cook without adding extra oils, butter, or fat
• Pair with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, peppers, etc.
• Incorporate into Optavia “Fuelings” balanced with veggies
• Watch portion sizes and stick to recommended serving sizes

Grilling, baking, or sautéing in a non-stick pan are all great ways to cook chicken sausage while keeping calories and fat low.

Avoiding Unhealthy Chicken Sausages

Some chicken sausages don’t align as well with Optavia plans. Here are some to be wary of:

• Sausages with cheese or other high-fat ingredients
• Products with too much added sugar or corn syrup
• Higher sodium options
• Pre-cooked or smoked sausages
• Large serving sizes exceeding 5 ounces

As a general rule, minimized processed ingredients is best. And less sodium, sugar, and fat is key for keeping chicken sausage as a healthy Optavia option.

Incorporating Chicken Sausage Into Optavia Meals

To enjoy chicken sausage within a balanced Optavia meal plan, here are some delicious meal ideas:

• Chicken sausage omelette with veggies
• Sheet pan meal with chicken sausage and roasted vegetables
• Stir fry with chicken sausage and riced cauliflower
• Chicken sausage stuffed peppers or zucchini boats
• Chicken sausage with wilted spinach salad

You can also chop up the sausage into crumbles and add to soups, salads, or eggs for a flavor boost while keeping portions in check.

Benefits of Chicken Sausage Within Optavia

Eating healthfully prepared chicken sausage in moderation offers benefits:

• Provides satisfying protein and flavor
• Can prevent boredom with plain chicken or fish
• Adds variety to Optavia meal plans
• Offers option if red meats don’t agree with you

The key is sticking to lean, minimally processed sausage options and eating reasonable portion sizes as part of balanced Optavia fuelings.

Should Vegetarians Avoid Sausage on Optavia?

Those following a vegetarian or vegan diet can also enjoy sausage on Optavia by choosing plant-based options. Many brands now offer vegetarian and vegan chicken-style sausages made from soy, wheat gluten, or other veggie proteins. These meatless sausages can be incorporated into Optavia plans the same way as traditional chicken sausages – focusing on lean, low-sodium options in sensible portions. Going with organic, minimally processed varieties is best for vegetarians and vegans too.

Chicken Sausage Can Complement Optavia Weight Loss

At the end of the day, lean chicken sausage in moderation can be a tasty addition to Optavia meal plans. Sticking to healthier varieties and preparation methods, while limiting portions, allows dieters to enjoy the flavor and satisfaction of chicken sausage while still achieving their weight loss goals. With so many delicious options for incorporating chicken sausage, Optavia clients don’t have to totally give up this protein favorite. A little can go a long way to complementing an Optavia diet when chosen wisely.