Why does fat loss suddenly become harder in perimenopause and menopause — even when women are dieting and exercising? In this episode, Maria Emmerich joins Vanessa to unpack the hormonal and metabolic shifts driving changes in body composition after 40. The PSMF Library is officially live 🎉 👉 Check it out here + get 20% off with code VANESSA They discuss estrogen and insulin resistance, testosterone in women, sleep disruption, sarcopenia, menopause belly fat, HRT, protein intake, resistance training, and why traditional keto can stop working in midlife. Topics Discussed Why women become more insulin resistant in menopause The connection between low testosterone and low motivation Why sleep gets worse in perimenopause HRT myths and misconceptions Why protein becomes more important after 40 Keto stalls, high fat diets, and body composition Strength training for hormones and longevity Peptides, MOTS-c, and mitochondrial health GLP-1 medications and muscle loss concerns Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and recovery The PSMF Library is officially live 🎉 This is the exact structured, high-protein approach Vanessa used for fat loss and body recomposition — without restricting calories every single day. Instead of guessing what to eat or starting over each week, you'll follow a clear, repeatable system combining high-protein, lower-energy days with maintenance days. ✨ What's Included 📘 Premium printed PSMF Library ⚡ Instant digital access 🥩 High-protein, low-carb recipe library 🧠 Tiered system (PSMF + maintenance days) 🛒 Grocery lists + planning tools 👥 3 months of community support 👉 Check it out here + get 20% off with code VANESSA 🔴 Tone Lux Red Light Therapy Boost collagen, elastin, and recovery ✨ Save 20% with code VANESSA Discover: Tone Lux Crystal Face Mask Tone Lux Contour (neck & décolletage) 🔬 Tone Device Vanessa uses the Tone Device as a proxy for fat loss + autophagy on PSMF days Check it out HERE 👉 Use code VANESSA for 20% off 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.