Protein is everywhere right now — added to waters, cereals, bars, and even your favorite coffee creamers. But is this just another wellness trend, or is there real science behind the protein craze? And more importantly, how much protein do midlife women actually need to thrive?

In this episode, I’m coming to you live again from my Dallas hotel room, fresh from a lecture on protein and exercise at the Texas Nurse Practitioner conference. After sitting through multiple talks about GLP-1s like Ozempic being the “answer” to everything from obesity to diabetes to low testosterone, I couldn’t help but notice one big thing missing from the conversation: lifestyle. Where’s the focus on movement, nutrition, and the basics that actually protect our long-term health?

Here’s the reality: less than 25% of adults get the minimum recommended exercise each week, and less than half are eating enough protein — even just for muscle maintenance, not building. That’s why this protein conversation matters so much.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• Why protein is trending (and why I’m all for the “strong over skinny” shift)

• The role protein plays in midlife: preserving lean muscle, supporting metabolism, aiding fat loss, improving recovery, and protecting bone health

• How much protein women really need (spoiler: more than the RDA suggests)

• Why when you eat protein matters — and why breakfast is often where we fall short

• What 30 grams of protein actually looks like in a meal (with simple food examples you can try today)

• The basics of pairing protein with an active lifestyle: cardio, strength training, and movement throughout the day

We’ll also talk about why protein isn’t just for bodybuilders — it’s a powerful tool for aging well, maintaining energy, and increasing your health span (not just your lifespan).

If you’ve been wondering whether you’re eating enough protein — or how to start getting more without overcomplicating things — this episode will give you the science, the strategy, and simple, doable tips you can put into practice today.

So grab your earbuds, and let’s dive into why protein is having a moment — and why it's important to you!

Thanks for listening!

~Allison