Change Your Shape, Not Just Your Weight — Dr. Mike Ormsbee on Protein Timing, Fat Loss & Muscle

Unlock sharper focus and support long-term brain health with Ketone-IQ—clean brain fuel for deep work, mental clarity, and sustained energy with no crash. Get 30% off your subscription, plus a free gift with your second shipment at Ketone.com/vanessa. In this episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa Spina sits down with one of the world’s leading experts in sports nutrition and metabolism — Dr. Mike Ormsbee. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Ormsbee brings unmatched insight into how to optimize fat loss, preserve muscle, and transform your body composition through nutrition, protein timing, and targeted exercise. Vanessa and Dr. Ormsbee explore: Why calorie restriction alone just makes you a smaller version of the same shape How to change your body shape, not just your weight The truth about pre-sleep protein intake — and why it doesn’t make you fat How much protein you actually need daily (spoiler: it’s more than the RDA) The science behind multi-modal training and the “PRISE” protocol How women, especially during menopause, can benefit from a high-protein lifestyle Real lab data from studies on metabolic rate, fat oxidation, and overnight muscle protein synthesis Whether you’re trying to burn fat, gain muscle, or reshape your body — this is a must-listen episode packed with practical, evidence-based advice from one of the world’s most respected researchers in exercise science. 🧬 Topics Covered: The science of body recomposition Resistance training vs. cardio for reshaping your body High-protein diets: optimal intake ranges Meal timing and protein distribution strategies Pre-sleep protein: benefits, myths, and studies Research on resting metabolic rate and fat oxidation Female-specific insights: menopause, recovery, and strength The PRISE protocol and sustainable fat loss 📚 Mentioned in This Episode: Changing Body Composition Through Diet and Exercise (course by Dr. Ormsbee – The Great Courses) Dr. Ormsbee’s research via the FSU Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine The PRISE protocol (Protein, Resistance, Intervals, Stretching, Endurance) 📱 Connect with Dr. Mike Ormsbee: Instagram: @mikeormsbee FSU Profile: Florida State University Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine Get 20% off on the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer at Ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Free High-Protein Keto Guide Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl 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.

IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% OFF all IQBAR products, plus get FREE shipping. To get your 20% off, text VANESSA to 64000.  That’s VANESSA to sixty-four thousand. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. This powerful solo episode recaps the most jaw-dropping insights from Vanessa’s recent conversation with Dr. Arny Ferrando—one of the world’s leading experts on human muscle metabolism, amino acids, and aging. Vanessa breaks down how muscle protein synthesis actually works on a physiological level, the surprising role of blood flow in getting amino acids into muscle tissue, and what’s really behind the fat gain many women experience during perimenopause and menopause. Spoiler: it’s not just hormones. •🔗 Learn more about the Tone LUX Red Light Therapy line and get 20% OFF with the code VANESSA  You’ll learn: • Why amino acids are the “signal” and blood flow is the “delivery truck” • How resistance training overcomes anabolic resistance by restoring blood flow • Why muscle protein synthesis isn’t an on/off switch but a dimmer—driven by peak EAA levels and tissue delivery • What Dr. Ferrando’s new research reveals about menopause, metabolic rate, and fat gain • How free form essential amino acids compare to whey and whole food protein for stimulating muscle growth • Why protein quality matters even more as we age • The true mechanism behind anabolic resistance—and how you can defy it • How much protein Dr. Ferrando recommends for aging adults, athletes, and those in fat loss • Whether timing protein around workouts actually matters for most people • His myth-busting insights on kidney health, high-protein diets, and plant vs. animal protein • And actionable strategies you can apply today to preserve lean mass and burn more fat—especially during menopause or aging This episode is a must-listen masterclass on optimizing your protein strategy for fat loss, muscle retention, and metabolic health. If you’re in perimenopause, postmenopause, or just want to stay strong as you age, this one is for you. Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook  👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl •🔗 Learn more about the Tone LUX Red Light Therapy line and get 20% OFF with the code VANESSA  • Tone Collagen  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. 📲 Stay Connected with Vanessa: Instagram: @ketogenicgirl ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps more women discover the truth about protein, strength, and sustainable fat loss!

Unlock sharper focus and support long-term brain health with Ketone-IQ—clean brain fuel for deep work, mental clarity, and sustained energy with no crash. Get 30% off your subscription, plus a free gift with your second shipment at Ketone.com/vanessa. In this powerhouse episode of the Optimal Protein Podcast, Vanessa Spina sits down with legendary muscle metabolism researcher Dr. Arny Ferrando for an in-depth masterclass on essential amino acids, protein timing, aging, anabolic resistance, and how to optimize muscle retention and fat loss—especially during menopause. Dr. Ferrando shares the latest research from his decades-long career at NASA, the University of Arkansas, and in collaboration with Dr. Robert Wolfe. He breaks down how muscle protein synthesis actually works, what drives anabolic resistance in aging and menopause, and why exercise and essential amino acids must be combined for optimal results. Vanessa and Dr. Ferrando also cover protein myths, high-protein diets, fat loss in older adults, and what new research is revealing about protein needs for women in midlife. Whether you’re trying to preserve muscle, lose fat, or simply optimize your health, this is a must-listen episode filled with actionable insights and science-backed strategies. Tone LUX Red Light Therapy by Ketogenic Girl — Boost collagen, improve skin elasticity, and support your mitochondrial health with the most advanced red light therapy tools. Use code VANESSA for 20% off at ketogenicgirl.com. 🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between muscle protein synthesis vs. anabolism Why protein turnover is like a dimmer switch—not an on/off switch The real role of essential amino acids (EAAs) in muscle building Why free-form EAAs outperform BCAAs and even whey for absorption and delivery The critical importance of blood flow from exercise in delivering amino acids Why peri- and postmenopause triggers anabolic resistance How to optimize protein intake during the menopause transition Is there a protein limit per meal? Debunking the 30g myth Animal vs. plant protein: what the research says about quality and calories Is high protein bad for kidneys? Dr. Ferrando debunks the myth Why total daily protein matters more than meal timing or distribution How to use protein and amino acids during injury, illness, or fat loss 🧠 Key Takeaway: To build and preserve muscle—especially in midlife and beyond—you need to combine resistance training with high-quality essential amino acid intake. Total daily protein intake is critical, and older adults often need more, not less. Don’t fear high-protein diets—embrace them intelligently to age strong, lean, and healthy. 💡 Mentioned in This Episode: Free High-Protein Keto Guide Get 20% off on the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer at Ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl 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.  

IQBAR is offering our special podcast listeners 20% OFF all IQBAR products, plus get FREE shipping. To get your 20% off, text VANESSA to 64000.  That’s VANESSA to sixty-four thousand. Message and data rates may apply. See terms for details. In this solo episode, Vanessa recaps her conversation with Dr. Eric Ravussin—one of the world’s foremost experts in metabolism, fat loss, and caloric restriction, author of the Biggest Loser and CALERIE studies. You’ll learn the truth about metabolic adaptation and why fat loss becomes harder over time, especially when using GLP-1 medications. Vanessa breaks down Dr. Ravussin’s findings on how to preserve lean mass during weight loss, optimize protein intake, and protect your metabolism—especially if you’re a woman or in midlife. 🔗 Learn more about the Tone LUX Red Light Therapy line and get 20% OFF with the code VANESSA  This deep-dive solo covers: 🧬 What metabolic adaptation really is and how it sabotages fat loss 💪 Why muscle loss on GLP-1s (up to 50% lean body mass!) is a growing concern—and how to prevent it 🥩 The right amount of protein for preserving muscle while losing fat 🔥 How metabolic flexibility affects your ability to burn fat 🕐 Intermittent fasting vs. calorie restriction: which boosts longevity and mitochondrial health ⚖️ Low fat vs. low carb: which strategy really works best when protein is optimized 📉 How to overcome weight plateaus and maintain results 🧠 Why obesity is a disease of the brain—and how to change your food environment to win Whether you’re dieting, training, or optimizing for longevity, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights to help you build a leaner, stronger, healthier body for life. Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook https://ketogenicgirl.com/pages/new-free-ebook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl •🔗 Learn more about the Tone LUX Red Light Therapy line and get 20% OFF with the code VANESSA  • Tone Collagen  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. 📲 Stay Connected with Vanessa: Instagram: @ketogenicgirl ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps more women discover the truth about protein, strength, and sustainable fat loss!

Timeline: Get 10% off Mitopure, clinically proven to boost mitophagy. Go to timeline.com/vanessa. Today’s episode features world-renowned metabolism expert Dr. Eric Ravussin, whose groundbreaking work has transformed our understanding of energy balance, calorie restriction, and long-term fat loss. Dr. Ravussin shares key insights from decades of clinical research on how the body adapts to weight loss—including why your metabolism slows, how to preserve lean muscle, and the critical role of mitochondrial health and metabolic flexibility. Visit https://ketone.com/VANESSA for 30% OFF your subscription order PLUS receive a free gift with your second shipment—fun surprises like a free 6-pack, Ketone-IQ merch, and more! We discuss: What “metabolic adaptation” really is and how it affects fat loss Why your body defends against weight loss more than weight gain The role of protein intake in preserving lean mass How to counteract muscle loss during caloric restriction Metabolic flexibility and its connection to insulin resistance GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and their impact on muscle loss The connection between mitochondrial function, aging, and energy expenditure Why resistance training is essential—especially for women and older adults This conversation is packed with evidence-based strategies for anyone pursuing sustainable fat loss, muscle preservation, and long-term metabolic health. Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Free High-Protein Keto Guide Get 20% off on the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer at Ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl 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.  

Get 20% off on the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask at Ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA In this powerful episode, Vanessa Spina sits recaps the TOP takeaways and insights from her interview with collagen researcher Dr. Shiloah Kviatkovsky to uncover the truth about collagen, joint health, and fat loss for women. She breaks down the science of how collagen peptides impact connective tissue remodeling, the key differences between muscle protein synthesis and collagen synthesis, and why women need to rethink their approach to protein intake—especially during peri- and post-menopause. She covers how Dr. K detailed her clinical findings on collagen dosage, timing, and pairing with vitamin C, and clears up the confusion around collagen vs. whey or plant-based protein. Whether you’re dealing with joint pain, training hard, or looking to age strong, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply today. 🔬 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • What collagen is, how it’s formed, and how it differs from muscle protein • Why collagen is about more than just beauty—and what it actually does in joints, ligaments & tendons • How bioactive peptides signal tissue remodeling • What the research says about collagen for joint pain and functional recovery • How protein needs change in women during the menopause transition • Why collagen should not count toward your daily protein target • The ideal collagen dose (10–15g), timing, and co-factors for best results • Differences between bovine and marine collagen—and which may be better for joints • Why most women are under-consuming protein and over-relying on cardio • The fat loss impact of combining resistance training with a collagen + high protein lifestyle 🔗 Resources: • 🧴 Tone Collagen: Shop here • 🧠 Follow Vanessa on Instagram: @ketogenicgirl • 🎙️ Podcast Instagram: @optimalproteinpodcast Get 10% off Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers, using the code VANESSA at bioptimizers.com/Vanessa Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Free High-Protein Keto Guide: https://ketogenicgirl.com/pages/new-free-ebook Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl 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/ 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 NOW Get 20% off Mitopure, clinically proven to boost mitophagy. Go to timeline.com/vanessa. In this empowering episode, Vanessa sits down with Dr. Shiloah Kviatkovsky, a leading researcher in collagen supplementation, protein metabolism, and connective tissue health. Together they unpack what actually works when it comes to optimizing protein intake, timing, and supplementation for women focused on fat loss, muscle retention, and active aging. This conversation covers everything from satellite cells, myonuclei, and muscle protein synthesis to collagen peptides, tendon repair, and skin rejuvenation. Dr. Kviatkovsky shares her latest research on: The anabolic differences between animal and plant proteins Sex-specific protein metabolism How collagen supports joint health, recovery, and visible skin improvements Vanessa also shares her personal use of Tone Collagen  (get 15% off with a subscription) which includes hyaluronic acid and clinically proven peptides that reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while supporting tendon and ligament resilience. Backed by science and daily routine–approved, it’s a supplement that works for both performance and beauty. If you’re looking to understand how to use collagen and protein strategically for fat loss and body composition, this episode delivers the truth straight from one of the most respected researchers in the field. Visit https://ketone.com/VANESSA for 30% OFF your subscription order PLUS receive a free gift with your second shipment—fun surprises like a free 6-pack, Ketone-IQ merch, and more! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl 📘 Free High-Protein Keto Guide 💡 Get 20% off the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy line at with the code VANESSA ✨ Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl 📸 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 this solo episode, Vanessa breaks down her incredible interview with Christopher Barakat—researcher, physique coach, and educator—whose work is redefining what we know about body recomposition, resistance training, and maximizing hypertrophy. Christopher was the first to publish a scientific paper using the term body recomposition, and his evidence-based approach is helping people break free from outdated beliefs around calories, bulking, and fat loss. In this recap, Vanessa shares the top takeaways from their conversation, including how to finally train and eat in a way that builds muscle and burns fat—at the same time. What You’ll Learn: What the science actually says about building muscle in a deficit How to calculate your ideal protein intake using lean body mass Why most people are undertraining (and how to fix it fast) The power of Myo-reps for hypertrophy and fat loss Chris’s high-protein lean bulking strategies (without the fat gain) What to do if you’ve been stuck or plateaued for years His tips for women and beginners who want to successfully recomp Why fasting might hinder your physique goals The surprising role of mold, hormones, and internal health in fat loss Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your strength training journey, this episode will help you unlock smarter strategies for long-term body recomposition. Mentioned in this episode: Tone Collagen - Get 15% off with a subscription (pause or cancel anytime!) •🔗 Learn more about the TONE LUX Red Light Therapy line and get 20% OFF with the code VANESSA 🎁 Get 10% off Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers, using the code VANESSA at https://bioptimizers.com/Vanessa Free high-protein keto guide: The Keto Reset eBook 👤 Connect with Vanessa: • Instagram: @ketogenicgirl Follow @ketogenicgirl for updates on the latest studies and strategies to optimize protein intake and metabolic health.  Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. 👥 Join the community: Optimal Protein Podcast Facebook Group  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. 📲 Stay Connected with Vanessa: Instagram: @ketogenicgirl ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps more women discover the truth about protein, strength, and sustainable fat loss!

Timeline: Get 10% off Mitopure, clinically proven to boost mitophagy. Go to timeline.com/vanessa Today’s episode is a powerhouse conversation with researcher, coach, and educator Christopher Barakat. We dive deep into the science of body recomposition—yes, building muscle and losing fat at the same time is absolutely possible—and Chris breaks down exactly how to do it with the right training, nutrition, and strategy. We discuss cutting-edge training methods like Myoreps, to support efficient workouts and hypertrophy, especially during fat loss. Chris also shares his research on what really works when it comes to enhancing body composition. Chris brings the rare combination of scientific rigor and real-world application, and this episode is packed with insights for anyone pursuing a leaner, stronger physique.  What we cover in this episode: Is true body recomposition possible—and for whom? Training volume, tempo, and intensity for fat loss and muscle gain Myoreps vs. traditional sets: which stimulates more growth? Why protein is essential (and how much is optimal) The biggest mistakes people make chasing fat loss Chris’s go-to tips for women and beginners trying to recomposition Visit https://ketone.com/VANESSA for 30% OFF your subscription order PLUS receive a free gift with your second shipment—fun surprises like a free 6-pack, Ketone-IQ merch, and more! Connect with Vanessa on Instagram @ketogenicgirl Free High-Protein Keto Guide Get 20% off on the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask or the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer at Ketogenicgirl.com with the code VANESSA Join the Community! Follow Vanessa on Instagram to see her meals, recipes, informative posts, and much more! Click here @ketogenicgirl Follow @optimalproteinpodcast on Instagram to see visuals and posts mentioned on this podcast. 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. 🔗 Connect with Christopher Barakat: • 📸 Instagram: @christopher.barakat • 🌐 Website: BeyondBodybuilding.com • 📚 Research Publications: ResearchGate Profile Get 20% off 20% off the Ultimate Guide to Body Recomposition ebook with the code OPP https://www.beyondbodybuilding.com/digital-products/the-ultimate-guide-to-body-recomposition 

Get 10% off Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers, using the code VANESSA at bioptimizers.com/Vanessa In this solo Friday recap, Vanessa breaks down her powerful interview with protein researcher and supplement industry expert, Dr. Chris Lockwood. Discover why only ~10% of your protein intake actually builds muscle, the real differences between plant and animal proteins, and why protein quality matters more than you think. Vanessa dives deep into the “Survive vs. Thrive” protein framework, explains how to overcome anabolic resistance with age, and unpacks which supplements are truly worth your money. If you’ve ever been confused by conflicting protein advice—or worried by negative headlines—this episode will empower you with the real science behind optimal protein intake. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why only 10% of your protein goes to muscle—and where the rest goes The truth about plant vs. animal protein for muscle-building What “Survive vs. Thrive” means when it comes to amino acids How to dose protein for aging muscles and overcome anabolic resistance Which supplements are worth taking (and which aren’t) Why you’re seeing more anti-protein headlines—and what’s really behind them Mentioned in This Episode: Ketone IQ: ketone.com/vanessa – 30% off subscription Get 20% of the Tone LUX Red Light Therapy Collection: ketogenicgirl.com – Use code “Vanessa”  Get 10% off Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers, using the code VANESSA at bioptimizers.com/Vanessa 👤 Connect with Vanessa: Instagram: @ketogenicgirl 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. 📲 Stay Connected with Vanessa: Instagram: @ketogenicgirl ⭐️ If You Loved This Episode… Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps more women discover the truth about protein, strength, and sustainable fat loss!