Optimal Protein Podcast with Vanessa Spina

This episode featured Dr. Dom D'Agostino- the world's pre-eminent ketone scientist! We discuss the concept of a PSMKD (Protein Sparing Modified Ketogenic Diet) to Optimize Protein Intake for Fat Loss & Protecting Muscle While Gaining the Benefits of Ketosis, Measuring Breath Acetone & More! His thoughts on breath acetone to monitor fat loss, having a glucose to breath acetone index, why having high BHB may not be optimal for health under certain scenarios, and much more!! Dr. Dominic D'Agostino is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of South Florida and Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC).  His laboratory develops and tests metabolic-based strategies for neurological disorders, cancer, and for enhancing safety and resilience of military personnel in extreme environments.  His research is supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), Department of Defense (DoD), private organizations and foundations. For more from Dr. D'Agostino, visit https://ketonutrition.org/ Some of the studies mentioned in this episode:  Measuring breath acetone for monitoring fat loss Study with measuring Acetone & Latency to Seizure George Cahill fasting study & what initiates ketosis. Ketones as a super fuel  Virta study long term BHB levels FAQ on the Acetone, Ketones & The Tone  Introducing the brand new TONE Device! Struggling to lose weight or reach your fitness goals? The TONE is a new breath acetone meter which lets you know if your body is burning fat!  All TONE devices are NOW SHIPPING Worldwide!! Order the TONE here. Now shipping worldwide!!  Order the Black & Gold TONE HERE Order the Black & Rose Gold TONE HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the facebook group for the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017506024952802/ Follow Vanessa on instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl - Prior to beginning a ketogenic diet you should undergo a health screening with your physician to confirm that a ketogenic diet is suitable for you and to rule out any conditions and contraindications that may pose risks or are incompatible with a ketogenic diet, including by way of example: conditions affecting the kidneys, liver or pancreas; muscular dystrophy; pregnancy; breast-feeding; being underweight; eating disorders; any health condition that requires a special diet [other conditions or contraindications]; hypoglycemia; or type 1 diabetes. A ketogenic diet may or may not be appropriate if you have type 2 diabetes, so you must consult with your physician if you have this condition. Anyone under the age of 18 should consult with their physician and their parents or legal guardian before beginning such a diet. Use of Ketogenic Girl videos are subject to the Ketogenicgirl.com Terms of Use and Medical Disclaimer. All rights reserved. If you do not agree with these terms, do not listen to, or view any Ketogenic Girl podcasts or videos.

This episode is featuring Dr. Dom D'Agostino- the world's pre-eminent ketone scientist! We discuss using breath acetone to monitor fat loss, understanding how to measure various ketones, fasting and ketosis, acetone's powerful effects on latency to seizure, acetone to BHB ratios and what determines the ratio of BHB to acetoacetate, why having high BHB may not be optimal for health under certain scenarios, and much more!! Dr. Dominic D'Agostino is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of South Florida and Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC).  His laboratory develops and tests metabolic-based strategies for neurological disorders, cancer, and for enhancing safety and resilience of military personnel in extreme environments.  His research is supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), Department of Defense (DoD), private organizations and foundations. For more from Dr. D'Agostino, visit https://ketonutrition.org/ Some of the studies mentioned in this episode:  Measuring breath acetone for monitoring fat loss Study with measuring Acetone & Latency to Seizure George Cahill fasting study & what initiates ketosis. Ketones as a super fuel  Virta study long term BHB levels FAQ on the Acetone, Ketones & The Tone  Introducing the brand new TONE Device! Struggling to lose weight or reach your fitness goals? The TONE is a new breath acetone meter which lets you know if your body is burning fat!  All TONE devices are NOW SHIPPING Worldwide!! Order the TONE here. Now shipping worldwide!!  Order the Black & Gold TONE HERE Order the Black & Rose Gold TONE HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the facebook group for the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2017506024952802/ Follow Vanessa on instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl - Prior to beginning a ketogenic diet you should undergo a health screening with your physician to confirm that a ketogenic diet is suitable for you and to rule out any conditions and contraindications that may pose risks or are incompatible with a ketogenic diet, including by way of example: conditions affecting the kidneys, liver or pancreas; muscular dystrophy; pregnancy; breast-feeding; being underweight; eating disorders; any health condition that requires a special diet [other conditions or contraindications]; hypoglycemia; or type 1 diabetes. A ketogenic diet may or may not be appropriate if you have type 2 diabetes, so you must consult with your physician if you have this condition. Anyone under the age of 18 should consult with their physician and their parents or legal guardian before beginning such a diet. Use of Ketogenic Girl videos are subject to the Ketogenicgirl.com Terms of Use and Medical Disclaimer. All rights reserved. If you do not agree with these terms, do not listen to, or view any Ketogenic Girl podcasts or videos.

Skip to the start of the recap: 13:41 In today's Friday solo episode of The Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa breaks down the science of leptin — the hormone that determines whether your body will burn fat or protect it. Leptin isn't just about appetite. It's a metabolic permission signal, and when leptin signaling is disrupted, fat loss can stall even in a calorie deficit. 🧠 IQBAR – Try the Ultimate Sampler Pack: IQBARs, IQMIX, and IQJOE! Text VANESSA to 64000 for a 20% off discount code Vanessa explains how sleep, circadian rhythm, and light exposure affect leptin, why dieting can feel harder than it should, and walks you through a practical 7-Day Leptin Reset Protocol designed to reduce hunger, improve satiety, and make fat loss feel easier. This episode connects leptin science with protein-forward nutrition, calories in vs. calories out, resistance training, and circadian alignment for sustainable fat loss. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 20% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code VANESSA! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete Vanessa discusses how using the Tone Device is a proxy for fat loss and autophay on Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) days! 👉 Use code VANESSA for 20% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Catherine Clinton to explore how circadian biology, light exposure, and cellular electrical charge regulate metabolism, hormones, and fat loss — often beyond calories alone. We discuss how morning light impacts leptin signaling, insulin sensitivity, cortisol, and melatonin, why modern indoor living disrupts metabolic health, and how maintaining a strong negative cellular charge is critical for mitochondrial function. We also cover red and infrared light therapy, optimal timing, metabolic benefits, and key considerations during pregnancy — plus how to integrate protein intake, calories in vs. calories out, and resistance training with circadian alignment for sustainable fat loss. Topics include: Light exposure and leptin signaling Circadian rhythm and fat loss Cellular charge and mitochondrial health Grounding and infrared light Red light therapy timing and pregnancy considerations Balancing calories, protein, and training with circadian biology 🔗 Dr. Catherine Clinton's book Optimize: drcatherineclinton.com/optimize Get 20% off the Tone Device to try on a PSMF Day! Shop the collection HERE and use the code VANESSA Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl 🔴 Tone LUX Red Light Therapy Get 20% off the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the with the code VANESSA HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Skip to the start of the recap: 11:40 In today's solo recap, Vanessa unpacks the most important takeaways from her conversation with Dr. Nick Barringer—former U.S. Army officer, researcher, and Registered Dietitian—whose work with tactical athletes and elite military populations reveals what really happens to the body during fat loss, stress, and recovery. This episode explores why so many people lose muscle when dieting, how PSMF and ketosis fundamentally change the equation, and what most fat-loss advice gets wrong. 🧠 IQBAR – Try the Ultimate Sampler Pack: IQBARs, IQMIX, and IQJOE! Text VANESSA to 64000 for a 20% off discount code You'll Discover: Why cutting calories alone often backfires What makes PSMF different from standard low-calorie dieting The overlooked role of protein quality—not just protein quantity What elite military research reveals about recovery and resilience The truth about seed oils vs butter when you look at human data Why collagen may support more than just joints and skin The most common mistakes women make when trying to get lean If you're working hard but not seeing the results you expect—or you're tired of fear-based nutrition rules—this episode will change how you think about fat loss, muscle, and recovery. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 20% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code VANESSA! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete Vanessa discusses how using the Tone Device is a proxy for fat loss and autophay on Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) days! 👉 Use code VANESSA for 20% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa is joined by Dr. Nick Barringer, former U.S. Army officer, researcher, Registered Dietitian, and Chief Academic Officer at Lionel University. Dr. Barringer has led cutting-edge research on protein intake, recovery, and resilience under extreme physical and psychological stress, working with tactical athletes including Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, and West Point cadets. This conversation goes far beyond the military. Dr. Barringer breaks down how women and everyday high performers can apply the same evidence-based strategies to lose fat without losing muscle, recover more effectively, and avoid the biggest pitfalls of aggressive dieting. Together, Vanessa and Dr. Barringer cut through fear-based nutrition messaging and explore what human research actually shows about protein intake, recovery, seed oils, supplements, and collagen. Get 20% off the Tone Device to try on a PSMF Day! Shop the collection HERE and use the code VANESSA Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 20% off the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the with the code VANESSA HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Skip to the start of the episode: 11:52 In today's Friday solo recap on the Optimal Protein Podcast, I break down the most important takeaways from my recent conversation with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon — and why this episode has major implications for fat loss, metabolic health, and women's body composition. 🧠 IQBAR – Try the Ultimate Sampler Pack: IQBARs, IQMIX, and IQJOE! Text VANESSA to 64000 for a 20% off discount code One of the biggest themes of our discussion was that muscle is not just about aesthetics. It's a metabolic organ, and preserving it is foundational for long-term health — especially for women as we age. I also connect this conversation to the new protein recommendations reflected in the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines, which now align far more closely with modern protein science. For the first time, official guidance is moving beyond minimums designed to prevent deficiency and toward intakes that actually support muscle preservation, metabolic health, and satiety. We also cover a brand new study on weight loss drugs and fat regain. In this recap, I cover: Why we don't have an "overfat" problem — we have an undermuscled problem Why midlife fat gain is not inevitable (and not just about hormones) How carb tolerance and activity level influence fat storage Why excess carbohydrates quietly work against fat loss when muscle demand is low The overlooked role of muscle blood flow and intramuscular fat Why under-eating accelerates muscle loss in women How weight loss drugs can worsen fat regain if muscle isn't protected Why strength training is non-negotiable — but must be appropriate Why protein isn't just calories, but a signal for muscle and metabolism If your goals include fat loss, body recomposition, and aging strong, this episode will help you rethink how protein, carbs, and muscle fit together — and why preserving muscle is the real long-term strategy. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 20% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code VANESSA! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete Vanessa discusses how using the Tone Device is a proxy for fat loss and autophay on Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) days! 👉 Use code VANESSA for 20% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon to break down the muscle-centered strategy every woman needs for fat loss, metabolic health, and long-term strength. We unpack why muscle — not hormones alone — is the key driver of body composition, why midlife fat gain is not inevitable, and how protein intake, movement, and muscle blood flow shape metabolism as women age. Dr. Lyon also explains her much-discussed concept of carb tolerance, how to "earn your carbs," and why excess carbohydrates can quietly work against fat loss when muscle demand is low. Get 20% off the Tone Device to try on a PSMF Day! Shop the collection HERE and use the code VANESSA Dr. Lyon also shares key insights from her new book, The Forever Strong Playbook, including her 24-hour muscle-building framework and why strength training is not optional at any age. If your goals include fat loss, body recomposition, and aging strong, this episode will completely reframe how you think about muscle. Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 20% off the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the with the code VANESSA HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast Mentioned in this episode: Website: https://drgabriellelyon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgabriellelyon/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa Most people don't fail at their goals because they lack discipline — they fail because they were never taught how to set goals that actually work. In this New Year solo episode, Vanessa shares a powerful, step-by-step goal-setting masterclass inspired by Tony Robbins and Brian Tracy, applied specifically to fat loss, body recomposition, strength, energy, and long-term metabolic health. You'll be guided through the actual Tony Robbins Priming Exercise, learn how to set identity-based goals that stick, and discover how to turn motivation into simple, repeatable systems that work even on imperfect weeks. In this episode, you'll learn: Why most health goals fail by February How to set goals from the right nervous system state Tony Robbins' RPM Method applied to body recomposition Brian Tracy's framework for turning goals into daily action How to create motivation-proof plans for fat loss and consistency This episode isn't about perfection — it's about building systems you can repeat all year long. 🎧 Listen now and set your 2026 goals with clarity, intention, and confidence. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 25% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code HOLIDAY25! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete Vanessa discusses how using the Tone Device is a proxy for fat loss and autophay on Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) days! 👉 Use code HOLIDAY25 for 25% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In today's episode, I'm continuing our Best of 2025 series with a powerful follow-up to Friday's episode. Instead of an interview, this is a curated masterclass pulling together the most important breakthroughs of 2025 in body recomposition, fat loss, and protein metabolism — especially for women navigating perimenopause and midlife metabolic change. You'll hear standout moments from conversations with Dr. Hannah Cabré, Dr. Arny Ferrando, and Dr. Mike Ormsbee, alongside a solo deep dive into one of the most exciting human randomized controlled trials published in 2025 on high-protein diets, accelerated belly-fat loss, and autophagy. Full Episode with Dr. Hannah Cabré Full Episode with Dr. Arny Ferrando Full Episode with Dr. Mike Ormsbee Full Episode on New Study on Protein Fasting Mimicking and Autophagy/Longevity OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 25% off the Tone Device to try on a PSMF Day! Shop the collection HERE and use the code HOLIDAY25 Get 25% off the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the with the code HOLIDAY25 HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Study takeaways start at 18:00 mark Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this special end-of-year solo episode, Vanessa shares a brief personal announcement, followed by the five biggest scientific takeaways from 2025 that reshaped how she thinks about fat loss, longevity, and metabolic health. This episode highlights the studies and expert conversations featured on the Optimal Protein Podcast that had the most meaningful impact this year — including new research on autophagy and protein intake, the real drivers of longevity benefits, menopause-related body composition changes, resistance training, and long-term fat loss maintenance. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 25% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code HOLIDAY25! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. Vanessa discusses how using the Tone Device is a proxy for fat loss and autophay on Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) days! 👉 Use code HOLIDAY25 for 25% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa is joined by Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner, bestselling author, and women's health expert, for a deep dive into why fat loss and muscle maintenance become more challenging during perimenopause and menopause. Cynthia explains how hormonal shifts drive anabolic resistance, reduce blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscle, and accelerate changes in body composition. We discuss how to adapt intermittent fasting for female physiology, why over-fasting can backfire in midlife, and the critical role of protein intake in preserving lean mass. The conversation also explores key insights from Cynthia's upcoming book, The Menopause Gut, including how gut health, inflammation, and hormonal balance are deeply connected—and why optimizing the microbiome can improve metabolic health, body composition, and overall vitality in midlife. OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 25% off Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the at https://ketogenicgirl.com with the code HOLIDAY25 HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa What if the real driver of skin aging isn't wrinkles or sun damage — but "zombie" senescent cells hiding in your skin? In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa sits down with Dr. Alessandra Zonari, PhD — a stem cell biologist and longevity scientist — for a fascinating deep dive into the new peptide science behind skin aging, inflammation, and biological age. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 25% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code HOLIDAY25! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete You'll discover: What senescent "zombie" skin cells actually are — and why they don't just age themselves, but affect the surrounding tissue How inflammation in the skin can quietly accelerate collagen breakdown and visible aging Why skin aging speeds up during fat loss, perimenopause, and menopause How scientists are now measuring the biological age of skin, not just how it looks The surprising role of peptides in signaling skin cells to behave more youthfully Why some common "anti-aging" approaches may miss the real drivers of aging What makes lip skin biologically different — and why it tends to age faster than the rest of the face Why nighttime repair, autophagy, and even red light therapy may matter more than you think This conversation goes far beyond skincare routines. It explores the mechanisms of aging at the cellular level, how lifestyle choices influence skin health, and why skin may be one of the most overlooked markers of longevity. If you're interested in skin health, peptides, collagen, inflammation, fat loss, or aging well, this episode will completely change how you think about your skin. Mentioned in this episode: OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. Vanessa discusses how red light therapy supports mitochondrial health, muscle recovery, circulation, and skin health as part of an evidence-based approach to fat loss and metabolic optimization. Explore the Tone LUX red light therapy collection at 👉 Use code HOLIDAY25 for 25% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa Why do so many people lose weight — only to regain it later? In this episode of The Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa Spina sits down with Dr. Holly Wyatt, physician, endocrinologist, and longtime researcher with the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR) — the world's largest and longest-running study of people who have lost weight and kept it off. Building on the audience-favorite episode with Dr. James Hill, this conversation focuses on what the data from over 10,000 successful maintainers actually shows — and why staying in fat-loss mode forever is one of the biggest reasons diets fail. OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. In This Episode, You'll Learn: • Why losing weight and keeping it off require completely different skills • The exact reason staying in fat-loss mode too long backfires • What 10,000 successful maintainers had in common • The identity shift that makes maintenance stick • How environment beats willpower every time NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 25% off Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy collection including the Crystal Mask and accessories the at https://ketogenicgirl.com with the code HOLIDAY25 HERE Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa For nearly a decade, many of us have believed that calorie burn eventually plateaus—that once you move enough, your body quietly compensates and stops burning more energy. That belief has shaped how we diet, how we train, and even whether we bother moving more at all. But a brand-new 2025 human study challenges that idea in a way that could completely change how you approach fat loss, daily movement, and exercise. In this Friday recap episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa breaks down the study behind the headlines and explains—in plain English—what the data actually shows, what most people misunderstood, and how to use this information to get better fat-loss results without eating less or training harder. BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 25% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code HOLIDAY25! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décollete In this episode, you'll discover: Why a new 2025 human study found no true metabolic "cap" in weight-stable, real-world conditions The key detail that separates this research from older metabolism models—and why exercise was misunderstood Why your steps and workouts genuinely increase total daily calorie burn Why muscle—not hormones—is the primary driver of metabolic rate during fat loss Why extreme dieting and "earning food" backfire—and what actually supports sustainable fat loss Study Referenced: Howard et al., 2025, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) — Physical activity and total daily energy expenditure in weight-stable adults 👉 https://www.pnas.org Vanessa discusses how red light therapy supports mitochondrial health, muscle recovery, circulation, and skin health as part of an evidence-based approach to fat loss and metabolic optimization. Explore the Tone LUX red light therapy collection at 👉 Use code HOLIDAY25 for 25% off HERE Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In today's episode, Vanessa sits down with Dr. Howard, the lead author of a brand-new PNAS study that is challenging one of the most widely accepted ideas in human metabolism. For years, many scientists believed that our bodies operate within a fixed daily calorie "budget," and that after a certain point, increasing activity doesn't increase total calorie burn. But Dr. Howard's new research suggests the story may be far more dynamic — and far more empowering — than we ever realized. OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. This conversation explores what this new evidence could mean for: How we think about calorie burn Why activity matters (in ways we didn't fully understand before) The role of fueling, recovery, and energy balance What actually drives fat loss and body recomposition How to train smarter, not harder Mentioned in this episode: Physical activity is directly associated with total energy expenditure without evidence of constraint or compensation — published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).  Read the full study here → PNAS DOI 10.1073/pnas.2519626122 NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 20% off on the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer or the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the at https://ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

In today's episode, Vanessa reveals the shocking new human research on two of the most powerful and science-backed supplements for women's fat loss, muscle tone, metabolic health, skin rejuvenation, and longevity: creatine and collagen. You'll discover why creatine is no longer just a gym supplement, and how groundbreaking new data shows collagen may actually influence biological age. This episode is packed with cutting-edge insights every woman needs to hear. Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa In this episode, you'll learn: ✨ The shocking results from new human studies on creatine and collagen ✨ Why creatine is one of the most underrated supplements for women, especially in perimenopause and post-menopause ✨ How creatine enhances fat loss, muscle tone, metabolic rate, cognition, and sleep-deprivation resilience ✨ The simple, evidence-based dose of creatine that works for women — and why Vanessa uses Puori creatine ✨ The brand new 2025 human trial showing collagen's key amino acids reduced biological age by an average of 1.4 years ✨ How collagen improves skin elasticity, hydration, wrinkles, nails, hair, joints, and connective tissue strength ✨ Why stacking creatine + collagen is a powerful strategy for fat loss, lean muscle retention, skin health, and healthy aging If you want a clear, science-backed guide to creatine and collagen — including exactly how to dose and use them for optimal results — this episode is for you. 🧠 IQBAR – Seasonal flavors + Ultimate Sampler Pack: IQBARs, IQMIX, and IQJOE. Text VANESSA to 64000 for a 20% off discount code  🔗 SUPPLEMENTS MENTIONED Puori Creatine. Support your strength and muscle goals with PUORI Creatine+ — a clean, effective creatine monohydrate supplement enhanced with taurine. Get 20% off at puori.com/VANESSA BOOST YOUR COLLAGEN & ELASTIN with RED LIGHT THERAPY! Save 25% on all Tone Lux Red Light therapy with the code HOLIDAY25! Learn more about the  TONE LUX Crystal red light therapy mask and the brand new accessory the TONE LUX CONTOUR for the neck and décolleté Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.  

NEW! Support your strength and muscle goals with PUORI Creatine+ — a clean, effective creatine monohydrate supplement enhanced with taurine. Get 20% off at puori.com/VANESSA In this science-packed episode, Dr. Cas Fuchs breaks down the surprising ways intermittent fasting, under-fueling, cold plunges, and low glycogen can quietly sabotage your muscle, strength, and body recomposition goals. We uncover the truth about IF for active women, what really matters for protein timing and distribution, how carbs impact strength performance, and why ice baths may be blunting your gains. If you want evidence-based strategies for fat loss and muscle retention, this episode is essential listening. If you loved Friday's solo episode on Why I Quit Intermittent Fasting, this conversation is the perfect follow-up — because Dr. Fuchs repeatedly emphasizes something Vanessa has discussed in detail 👉 We must prioritize high-quality human research over rodent-based nutritional myths. Dr. Fuchs' work has directly shaped how we understand muscle growth, fat loss, glycogen replenishment, protein quality, cold exposure, heat therapy, and what actually matters when optimizing your body composition, not just your "healthspan." OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase. 🔥 In This Episode: • The truth about protein quality (and what actually matters for recomposition) • Intermittent fasting, meal timing & the real anabolic window • The truth about ice baths — and why they can blunt your gains • Heat therapy: helpful or hype? • Carbs, glycogen & why some workouts feel "flat" • How much carbohydrate women really need to train at their best • Aging, muscle loss & the inspiring 71-year-old lifter • Dr. Fuchs' simple, science-backed formula for fat loss + muscle retention 🔥 CYBER MONDAY IS HERE — LAST DAY TO SAVE 30% OFF SITEWIDE! My biggest sale of the year is live! Get 30% OFF all Tone Devices, red light panels, masks, and more at KetogenicGirl.com with code BF2025. 👉 Shop the sale HERE NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 20% off on the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer or the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the at https://ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.

🔥 BLACK FRIDAY IS HERE — 30% OFF SITEWIDE! My biggest sale of the year is live! Get 30% OFF all Tone Devices, red light panels, masks, and more at KetogenicGirl.com with code BF2025. 👉 Shop the sale HERE In this episode, Vanessa reveals why she quit intermittent fasting after nearly a decade — and how she went on to lose 13+ pounds of fat by switching to a completely different approach that's supported by new human research. You'll learn why many popular fasting "benefits" were based on rodent data that doesn't translate to humans… what the latest clinical trials show about IF, fat loss, and muscle retention… why protein does not inhibit autophagy… and why ketones — not the fasting window — were always the real metabolic driver. Here it is 🖤 BIOptimizers Black Friday: Get 25% off + exclusive free gifts now through Dec 3 on favorites like Magnesium Breakthrough and MassZymes. 👉 bioptimizers.com/vanessa Code: VANESSA Don't miss the year's biggest savings! Vanessa also shares her new weekly routine: how many meals per day and how many Protein-Sparing Modified Fast (PSMF) to boost ketones and autophagy without sacrificing lean mass. She explains how this shift improved her fat loss, metabolic rate, energy, hunger, and quality of life — and why she's never going back to IF. If you've ever struggled with intermittent fasting or wondered whether it's actually helping your fat loss, this episode offers a refreshing, empowering, research-backed perspective. Timeline Mitopure Gummies — The #1 Urolithin A supplement for energy and healthy aging, now in delicious strawberry gummies. Get 20% off at timeline.com/vanessa Get my free NEW high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 🔥 BLACK FRIDAY IS HERE — 30% OFF SITEWIDE! My biggest sale of the year is live! Get 30% OFF all Tone Devices, red light panels, masks, and more at KetogenicGirl.com with code BF2025. 👉 Shop the sale HERE Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl • Tone Collagen 📱 Follow @ketogenicgirl for the latest studies and strategies on fat loss and protein optimization 📸 Follow @optimalproteinpodcast for episode visuals and updates 💬 Join the Facebook group: Optimal Protein Podcast Community 🎙 The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and not nutritional or medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making major dietary or lifestyle changes.

🔥 BLACK FRIDAY IS HERE — 30% OFF SITEWIDE! My biggest sale of the year is live! Get 30% OFF all Tone Devices, red light panels, masks, and more at KetogenicGirl.com with code BF2025. 👉 Shop the sale HERE OneSkin is powered by the breakthrough peptide OS-01, the first ingredient proven to reduce skin's biological age. I use the OS-01 Face and Eye formulas daily—they've transformed my skin's smoothness, firmness, and glow. Visit oneskin.co/VANESSA and use code VANESSA for 15% off your first purchase In this week's episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa sits down with one of the world's leading experts in exercise science and body composition, Dr. Shawn Arent. With more than 200 publications on training, metabolism, stress physiology, and performance, Dr. Arent brings unparalleled clarity to what truly moves the needle for fat loss and muscle gain. This conversation cuts through the noise and delivers science-backed, actionable guidance you can apply immediately. If you're trying to lose fat, build muscle, or finally break past a plateau, you don't want to miss this episode. 🧠 IQBAR – Seasonal flavors + Ultimate Sampler Pack: IQBARs, IQMIX, and IQJOE. Text VANESSA to 64000 for a 20% off discount code  In this episode, we discuss: • Why muscle — not fat — determines long-term metabolic health • How to combine strength + conditioning for the best recomposition results • Why recovery and stress management determine how your body responds to training • The truth about cortisol, training loads, and stubborn belly fat • Why creatine is one of the most powerful supplements for body composition • How women can optimize performance and recovery across the menstrual cycle • What the most successful people do differently when trying to lose fat and build muscle • The training, nutrition, and recovery principles that actually work NEW! Free High-Protein Keto Guide  Get delicious high protein meal recipes! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Get 20% off on the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer or the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the at https://ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. Link to join the Facebook group for the podcast The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise regimen.