Optimal Protein Podcast with Vanessa Spina

How Ketones Burn Fat & Protect Muscle: Dr. Dominic D’Agostino

Mar 31, 2025

Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is a leading expert in ketogenic science and metabolic therapy. He discusses how ketones serve as effective fuel and signaling molecules, promoting fat loss and muscle preservation. Dr. D’Agostino emphasizes his daily pursuit of ketosis and explores the dynamics between protein and ketones. Listeners dive into appetite suppression on a keto diet, the benefits of exogenous ketones, and the role of strength training. He also shares insights on the latest science behind ketosis for performance, metabolic health, and aging.

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ADVICE

Mild Ketosis for Metabolic Optimization

Achieve mild ketosis through dietary changes and ketone supplements.
This optimizes metabolic benefits compared to a non-ketogenic low-carb diet.

INSIGHT

Outcome-Based Research

Focus on outcome-based research, prioritizing overall health markers.
A well-formulated ketogenic diet improves these markers, reducing chronic disease risk.

ADVICE

High Protein and Fiber Intake

Consume one gram of protein per pound of body weight.
Prioritize fiber intake, especially with dinner, for optimal results.

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In this powerful episode of The Optimal Protein Podcast, host Vanessa interviews Dr. Dominic D’Agostino, one of the world’s leading researchers in ketogenic science and metabolic therapy.

They dive into how ketones not only serve as a powerful fuel source but also act as metabolic signaling molecules that promote fat loss, protect muscle, and support whole-body health.

Dr. D’Agostino shares why he personally pursues ketosis every day, how ketones interact with protein metabolism, and the key differences between nutritional and exogenous ketones. You’ll also learn how a high-protein ketogenic diet supports appetite regulation, body recomposition, and metabolic flexibility—especially for women in midlife.

If your goals include burning fat, preserving lean muscle, and optimizing energy and cognition, this episode is a must-listen.

🔍 Topics Covered:

• How and why Dr. D’Agostino gets into ketosis every day

• The truth about protein on a ketogenic diet

• Ketones and their impact on muscle protein synthesis and preservation

• Appetite suppression and satiety in a keto-adapted state

• Exogenous ketones: how and when to use them

• The synergy of strength training, protein, and ketones

• Why you test breath acetone ketones

• What the latest science says about ketosis for performance and metabolic health & the future of ketone research in aging, and more

Get 20% off on the Tone Device breath ketone analyzer OR the Tone LUX Crystal Red Light Therapy Mask 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: 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.

🔗 Connect with Dr. D’Agostino:

• Website: https://www.ketonutrition.org

• Instagram: @dominic.dagostino.kt

• Twitter/X: @DominicDAgosti2