95: Why Dieting Fails in Midlife: Hormones, Insulin Resistance + Peptide Therapy
Hormones, Metabolism & You!Show Notes
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Doing Everything Right but Still Not Losing Weight? - The Shocking Truth About Midlife Metabolism - Learn How Hormones and Peptides Can Finally Unlock Fat Loss Without More Willpower
If you feel like you are eating clean, working out, staying consistent, and your body still will not respond, you are not alone. In this episode, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with Dr. Aleksandra Gajer, M.D., to explore why weight loss resistance often shows up in midlife and why it is rarely about willpower.
They unpack how hormones, sleep, stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance can combine to slow progress, and how peptides can be used as strategic tools when they are properly prescribed, sourced, and monitored. You will also hear a practical breakdown of peptide categories, plus an important safety conversation about avoiding online sourcing and quick clinic prescribing.
Key Topics Covered
Why traditional dieting often fails for high achieving women in midlife
How shifting hormones can influence insulin resistance, metabolism, and body composition
The role inflammation can play in fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog
Why real food fundamentals still matter even with advanced therapies
What peptides are and how they differ from typical medications in the body
A simple framework: five peptide categories used in clinical practice
Metabolic peptides: GLP 1 therapies, MOTS c, and growth hormone promoting peptides
Recovery and inflammation peptides: BPC 157 and the use of KPV for gut and immune balance
Cognitive peptides discussed: Selank and Semax, plus sleep support with DSIP
Longevity focused peptides: Epitalon, plus discussion of NAD and SS 31
Aesthetic peptide overview: GHK Cu and why formulation and tolerability matter
Why peptide stacks can be less effective and harder to troubleshoot
The importance of medical oversight, safe sourcing, and individualized dosing
Free lever for better health: sleep and boundaries around screens
Connect with Dr. Aleksandra Gajer, M.D
Website: https://thegajerpractice.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleksandra-gajer-md/
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