Why Most Diets Fail — and How Protein Leverage Fixes It | Dr. Ted Naiman Interview | HSM 710

Sep 15, 2025

Dr. Ted Naiman, a primary care doctor and author, discusses the power of protein in health and weight management. He introduces protein leverage theory, explaining how prioritizing protein can help break the yo-yo dieting cycle. Naiman offers insights on the P:E Diet and the importance of nutrient-dense foods. He shares practical tips for achieving satiety and metabolic health while advocating for balanced eating rather than restrictive diets. Plus, listeners learn about the Hava app, designed to simplify dietary choices and enhance nutritional awareness.

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INSIGHT

Protein Drives How Much We Eat

Animals (including humans) eat until they get enough protein; low-protein diets drive overeating.
Increase protein percentage and lower energy density to eat fewer calories while staying full.

INSIGHT

Weight And Volume Affect Satiety

We eat a target weight/volume of food as well as protein to feel full.
Choose foods with high weight, fiber, water and protein to maximize satiety per calorie.

ADVICE

Prioritize Protein At Breakfast

Eat more protein earlier in the day to reduce calorie intake later.
Studies show a higher-protein first meal causes people to eat hundreds fewer calories overall.

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In episode 710 of The Half Size Me™ Show, Heather talks with Dr. Ted Naiman about how focusing on protein and nutrient density can help you finally escape the yo-yo dieting trap. They also talk about: -- the science behind protein leverage theory -- how the P:E Diet makes weight loss easier -- Dr. Naiman’s take on carbs, fats, and satiety -- a practical path to metabolic health and lasting results -- and more! Buy Satiety Per Calorie: Eating, solved. and check out Dr. Naiman's app, Hava. Get even more PODCASTS and helpful content HERE: HalfSizeMe.com/fan For even more SUPPORT, join the Half Size Me Academy, where you'll get everything you need to help you no matter where you are in your weight loss and wellness journey: halfsizeme.com/join Support Half Size Me Show’s mission and help us stay free of third-party ads! As a subscriber to Half Size Me Podcast Premium, you will get: --Access to the entire 650+ episode archive --Access weekly episodes a day EARLY --Access to EXCLUSIVE, subscriber-only episodes including the Coaching Karolina and Coaching Sarah series --Access to subscriber-only audio responses to “Ask Me Anything” questions Become a podcast premium subscriber today and make Heather and the Half Size Me show a part of your weight loss journey! Do you want to get support and connection at a price you can afford? Then check out the Half Size Me Academy here: https://www.halfsizeme.com/hsm-academy/ About Half Size Me The Half Size Me™ Show is a weekly podcast. It will inspire and motivate you no matter where you are in your weight loss journey. Whether you're just getting started losing weight or having worked on your health and wellness for years, this show is for you! The Half Size Me Show is hosted by Heather Robertson, who lost 170 pounds over a period of 5 years and has maintained since 2012. Heather did it by learning new eating habits, getting regular exercise, and changing her mindset. On her popular weekly podcast, The Half Size Me Show, Heather shares her own lessons and struggles with you, and she shows you how to handle the real challenge of any weight loss journey... weight maintenance. Be sure to subscribe to The Half Size Me Show and join Heather every week as she shares information, inspiration, coaching, and conversations with REAL people who've learned weight loss isn't only about losing pounds, it's about finding yourself. Disclaimer: Heather is not a doctor, nurse, or certified health professional. What worked for her or her guests may not work for you. Please talk with your doctor, dietician, or other certified health professionals when seeking advice about your own weight loss or weight maintenance plan. All information included in The Half Size Me™ Podcast and on HalfSizeMe.com is for informational and inspirational purposes only. For additional disclaimer information, please visit HalfSizeMe.com.