The Science of Protein Cycling, Autophagy and Fat Loss with Vanessa Spina

In this episode, Dr. Jockers and Vanessa Spina break down new human research showing why high protein doesn't block autophagy when calories are low. You'll learn how this changes everything we've believed about protein timing, fasting, and cellular repair. The conversation also reveals why prioritizing protein can accelerate fat loss without sacrificing muscle. You'll hear how protein impacts appetite, hormones, and metabolic flexibility—and why many people overeat simply because they're under-consuming essential amino acids. Vanessa explains the protein leverage effect and how it naturally reduces cravings, stabilizes blood sugar, and makes eating "effortlessly" satisfying. These insights can help you rethink how you build your daily meals. You'll discover why certain fasting styles can increase visceral fat loss, support hormonal balance, and boost performance. Expect a mix of science, real-world application, and surprising findings you may not have heard before. In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction and Exciting New Study 00:21 Welcome and Guest Introduction 00:30 Deep Dive into the New Study 01:52 Vanessa Spina's Expertise and Background 05:47 Interview with Vanessa Spina Begins 06:15 Discussion on Protein Absorption Study 14:04 Personal Experiences with Protein and Fasting 16:55 Debunking Protein Myths 18:10 Nutrition Principles and Protein Prioritization 22:23 Ketones, Satiety, and Inflammation 27:07 Balancing Hormones and Stress 31:17 Understanding Autophagy and Protein Intake 32:35 The Importance of Human Trials in Research 35:11 Study on High Protein Fasting Mimicking Diet 38:38 Results and Implications of the Study 42:18 Personal Experiences with Protein-Sparing Modified Fasting 45:32 Practical Tips for Implementing Protein-Sparing Modified Fasting 57:54 Comparing Different Fasting Approaches 01:01:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hydration is one of the fastest ways to boost your energy, sharpen your focus, curb cravings, and even improve the look and feel of your skin — but water alone isn't enough. Your cells need electrolytes to actually absorb and use that hydration. Paleovalley Essential Electrolytes delivers premium, full-spectrum minerals with zero sugar, no artificial ingredients, and unprocessed sea salt, helping you feel more energized, clear-headed, and vibrant — and look more radiant from the inside out. Just one scoop a day can make a noticeable difference. Try Paleovalley Essential Electrolytes and save 15% by visiting Paleovalley.com/jockers and using code JOCKERS at checkout. I just wanna take a moment to interrupt this podcast to tell you about one of my favorite podcasts I listen to. It's called The Dr. Josh Axe Show, hosted by my good friend Dr. Josh Axe. Every week he shares how to balance your hormones, restore your gut, boost your energy, and slow aging without relying on harsh medications or quick fixes. He shares both ancient biblical practices and the latest breakthroughs in nutrition, herbal remedies, and lifestyle medicine. If you're ready to take control of your health, renew your energy, and transform your mind, body, and spirit, tune into The Dr. Josh Axe Show every Monday and Thursday wherever you get your podcasts. "Most people don't overeat because they lack willpower — they lack protein." Subscribe to the podcast on: Apple Podcast Stitcher Spotify PodBean TuneIn Radio Resources: Study Referenced: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/394359134_Effects_of_fasting-mimicking_diets_with_low_and_high_protein_content_on_cardiometabolic_health_and_autophagy_A_randomized_parallel_group_study Get 15% off Paleovalley Electrolites: paleovalley.com/jockers – Use code JOCKERS Connect with Vanessa Spina: Website: ketogenicgirl.com Connect with Dr. Jockers: Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjockers/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DrDavidJockers YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/djockers Website – https://drjockers.com/ If you are interested in being a guest on the show, we would love to hear from you! Please contact us here! - https://drjockers.com/join-us-dr-jockers-functional-nutrition-podcast/