Science

Discover the role of lean mass in achieving a healthy body composition When it comes to achieving a lean body composition , we often focus on the number on the scale — but what really matters is what that number represents. True progress is improving body composition through fat loss that preserves what’s most valuable: your lean body mass. Lean body mass plays a key role in metabolism, mobility, strength, bone health and long-term wellness, making it essential for a health

Most Americans feel the daily effects of poor metabolic health — low energy, stubborn weight, disrupted sleep and challenges with weight management — yet a new national survey shows many don’t fully understand what metabolic health actually is.* The findings reveal a clear gap between Americans’ perceptions of metabolic health and their actual awareness and understanding of it. Here’s what the data uncovered, why it matters and how small daily habits can make a meaningful dif

You can’t see visceral fat, but it can quietly affect how your body feels, functions and even ages. In this post, we’ll explore what visceral fat is, why it matters and how you can reduce it through simple, science-backed habits—and how OPTAVIA’s comprehensive system supports a strong, targeted fat burn for quality weight loss.

Drinking enough water isn’t a magic bullet for weight loss, but it plays a key role in appetite, energy and metabolic health. Learn how hydration supports your goals and simple ways to stay hydrated.

Discover the latest breakthroughs in metabolic health — OPTAVIA’s Scientific & Clinical Affairs Team shared fresh insights at ObesityWeek 2025 on how science, structure, and behavior can help restore balance and support long-term weight management.

Metabolic health is more than a buzzword — it’s the foundation of how your body functions, from energy levels to long-term health. Understanding the key drivers of metabolic health, recognizing poor metabolic health and learning how to improve it can transform how you feel today and in the future.

Menopause marks a major transition — one that goes far beyond hot flashes and mood swings. Hormonal changes during this stage can slow metabolism, affect sleep and even change how your body stores fat, making it harder to manage weight. If you’ve been wondering how to lose weight during menopause, the answer starts with understanding what’s happening inside your body. This phase isn’t about giving up — it’s about adjusting, learning and finding balance again. 

Ever feel like your body’s working against you? You’re not alone. More than 90% of U.S. adults are metabolically unhealthy — but new research from our Scientific and Clinical Affairs team shows it’s possible to get back in sync. Discover how Metabolic Synchronization™ helps realign your metabolism, reduce harmful fat and support lasting health from the inside out.

Feeling tired, foggy or just not yourself lately? You’re not alone — more than 90% of U.S. adults are living with some degree of metabolic dysfunction.* When your metabolism is out of sync, everything from your energy to your mood can take a hit. Learn how balanced nutrition, movement, sleep and daily habits can help your body find its rhythm again — and why science shows it’s never too late to restore metabolic health.

Feeling off? When your metabolic health is out of sync, everything else follows. More than 90% of U.S. adults are living with poor metabolic health — often without even realizing it. That’s why OPTAVIA put science to the test, and the results are groundbreaking: our 5 & 1 plan® was linked to improved metabolic health and 98% lean mass retention in a clinical study.

OPTAVIA Fuelings are convenient, science-backed nutrition tools, precision-crafted to support your goals. Each one is meticulously formulated, calorie and portion-controlled with an optimal balance of protein, carbohydrates and fats — plus essential vitamins, minerals, fiber and probiotics — to provide the macro and micronutrients your body needs while keeping your metabolism on track.

If you're asking yourself, "what is OPTAVIA?" you've come to the right place. OPTAVIA is more than just a diet. It’s a structured, supportive game plan for your goals — from losing weight* and building better habits to getting the tools to help keep the weight off.  

When it comes to weight loss, creating a calorie deficit is what directly drives fat burn — but what you eat within that deficit makes all the difference. Protein doesn’t directly cause fat loss, but it plays a crucial supporting role: helping preserve lean muscle , promoting satiety and supporting your body during a calorie and carb-controlled plan.  At OPTA VIA, we build our structured nutrition plans around the science of protein for weight loss * — and for good reason.

Fat burn isn’t about cutting everything out — it’s about giving your body the right tools. This high-protein, lower-carb meal plan is designed to kick-start fat burning, protect lean muscle mass and support your weight loss results. If you’re ready to move beyond short-term diets and want something simpler and more supportive, this structured plan could be your turning point.