Can I Eat Turkey Bacon on Optavia?

The Optavia diet emphasizes lean proteins, vegetables, and smart carbohydrate choices With its pre-packaged “Fuelings” and structured meal plans, Optavia provides convenience while promoting weight loss through calorie control.

But what about everyone’s favorite breakfast meat – bacon? Is there a way to enjoy the smoky savory flavor of bacon while sticking to the Optavia guidelines?

Let’s take a closer look at whether turkey bacon can be part of an Optavia diet.

What is Optavia?

Optavia is a commercial weight loss program that replaces most meals with nutritionally balanced, pre-portioned “Fuelings” – shakes, bars, soups, puddings, and more. These provide protein, vitamins, and minerals while limiting calories, carbs, fat, and sodium.

Participants supplement Fuelings with one self-prepared “Lean and Green” meal each day. The Lean part contains 3-7 oz of lean protein like chicken, fish,eggs or plant-based proteins. The Green part includes non-starchy vegetables taking up half the plate. A thumb-sized portion of healthy fats like avocado, nuts or olive oil completes the meal.

Optavia also provides support from personal coaches and an online community. The program aims to help participants learn long-term healthy eating habits.

Can You Eat Turkey Bacon on Optavia?

The good news is that yes, turkey bacon can be included in an Optavia diet plan.

Turkey bacon fits into the “Lean” protein part of the daily Lean and Green meal. With around 20 grams of protein per serving, turkey bacon provides a good protein boost.

Compared to pork bacon, turkey bacon is lower in total fat, saturated fat and sodium. Two slices of turkey bacon contain about:

• 60-80 calories
• 3-5 grams fat
• 450-800 mg sodium

This more closely aligns with Optavia’s guidelines to limit fats, sodium and excess calories.

However, there are some caveats to keep in mind:

• Stick to just 1-2 slices per day. Don’t overdo your bacon intake.
• Opt for the leanest turkey bacon you can find. Look for lower fat and sodium varieties.
• Avoid any added sugars or chemicals like nitrates. Read labels carefully.
• Round out your meal with veggies and smart carbs. Don’t make bacon the star.

Overall, enjoying a serving of turkey bacon occasionally can add flavor and satisfaction to your Lean and Green meals. Just be mindful of portions.

Benefits of Turkey Bacon for Optavia

Including turkey bacon in your Optavia plan offers several benefits:

1. Provides lean protein. Turkey bacon delivers about 8 grams of protein per slice, helping you meet your daily protein needs.

2. Adds flavor. The smoky, savory taste of turkey bacon makes Optavia meals more delicious.

3. Good source of nutrients. It contains niacin, vitamin B6, zinc and iron.

4. Low in fat. With 70-80% less fat than pork bacon, it aligns with Optavia’s guidelines.

5. Fewer calories. Each slice of turkey bacon contains about 40 calories vs. 60-80 calories in pork bacon.

6. Lower sodium. Roughly 25% less sodium compared to regular bacon.

When enjoyed in moderation, turkey bacon can be a tasty and lean protein option on the Optavia program.

Tips for Adding Turkey Bacon to Optavia

Here are some tips for incorporating turkey bacon into Optavia meal plans:

• Use it in your Lean and Green meal. Add 1-2 slices along with veggies and complex carbs.

• Try turkey bacon lettuce wraps. Wrap slices in lettuce leaves with avocado, tomato and mustard.

• Crumble it over salads or soups for a smoky bacon flavor.

• Include in omelets or egg scrambles along with veggies.

• Mix with vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans or asparagus.

• Add to casseroles or baked dishes for extra flavor.

• Enjoy a few slices as an occasional snack.

• Use it in place of pork bacon in any recipe.

The key is moderation. Don’t overdo your portion sizes and avoid making bacon the focal point of every meal. Vary your proteins and make vegetables the star.

Optavia-Friendly Turkey Bacon Recipes

To help add variety to your Optavia Lean and Green meals, here are some recipe ideas featuring turkey bacon:

Turkey BLT Salad

Chopped turkey bacon, lettuce, tomato, avocado and light dressing.

Turkey Bacon Egg Scramble

Eggs, turkey bacon, onions, spinach and mushrooms.

Turkey Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts topped with chopped turkey bacon.

Turkey Bacon Fried Rice

Cauliflower rice stir-fried with turkey bacon, eggs, peas and carrots.

Turkey Bacon Avocado Toast

Whole wheat toast topped with mashed avocado and crispy turkey bacon.

Turkey Bacon Wrap

Turkey bacon, lettuce, tomato and light salad dressing wrapped in a whole wheat tortilla.

With a little creativity, you can definitely still enjoy the delicious taste of bacon while following your Optavia meal plan. Moderation and healthy preparations are key for keeping turkey bacon as a lean protein option.

Other Lean Protein Options for Optavia

If pork and turkey bacon don’t appeal to you, Optavia offers plenty of other lean and delicious protein choices:

• Skinless chicken or turkey breast
• Fish like salmon, tuna, cod or halibut
• Shellfish including shrimp, scallops or crab
• Eggs and liquid egg whites
• Lean beef cuts like sirloin or 95% lean ground beef
• Pork tenderloin or 96% lean ground pork
• Tofu and tempeh
• Edamame and lentils
• Whey, vegetarian or plant-based protein powders

Aim for a 3-7 oz serving of lean protein with each meal. Varying your choices helps provide nutritional variety while supporting muscle maintenance and keeping hunger at bay.

Is Turkey Bacon Really Healthier Than Pork Bacon?

While turkey bacon is often touted as the “healthier” bacon option, the truth is a bit more complex. Here are some factors to consider:

• Turkey bacon is lower in fat and calories than pork bacon. But both remain high in sodium.

• Preparation methods matter. Pan-frying in butter or oil adds extra calories and fat.

• Nitrates used to cure turkey bacon may pose health risks when consumed in excess.

• High intake of processed meats like bacon has been linked to increased cancer and heart disease risk.

Ultimately, all bacon should be eaten in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet. Stick to the serving guidelines and enjoy turkey bacon as an occasional treat if it fits your dietary needs.

The Bottom Line

Thanks to its lean protein, lower fat and sodium content, turkey bacon can be incorporated into the Optavia diet in moderation. One or two slices can add lots of flavor to Lean and Green meals as part of a vegetable-focused plate. Be mindful of portion sizes, and complement turkey bacon with healthy whole grains, veggies, fruits and plant proteins. With some creativity and planning, you can still enjoy a touch of bacon while sticking to your Optavia meal plan goals.