Plant Chat: Jim White, RD

I am so excited to have Jim White, the owner of Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios in Virginia Beach, on my blog today! Jim graduated Summa Cum Laude from Youngstown University in Ohio with a B.A. in Nutrition. He is credentialed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as a registered dietitian and certified by the American College of Sports Medicine as a health fitness instructor. Jim is currently a national spokesman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and has the reputation of being one of the top health professionals in the area. His clientele includes all walks of life—athletes, actors, models, business owners, elders and teens. Jim and his team have helped hundreds lose thousands.

You learned about weight training in high school from your brother. Did you grow up in a relatively healthy household? 

I grew up the skinny kid on the block. I was the 135 pound weakling. I actually ate a lot of fast food growing up to put on some extra weight. I did not start to realize the importance of good nutrition until I reached high school. My athletic brother taught me how to gain weight while eating a lot of healthy foods. I gained 30 pounds of muscle through high school and built a healthy foundation.

What’s your food philosophy?

Balance. I believe you can have a piece of cake and still stay healthy. I see so many people try to eat perfect all the time and their will power ends up giving out. This can lead to binge eating and a lifelong journey of weight fluctuation. I always say, “Eat healthy 90% of the time and the other 10% eat what you want.”

Why did you decide to open up your own business? Was there something that you disagreed with in other fitness centers? 

I knew in college I wanted to own my own business. That led me to open three gyms in 10 years. I knew that nutrition was lacking in most fitness centers. I made that my niche as we have RD’s and DTR’s at all our studios offering practical nutrition advice.

What’s your favorite type of exercise? 

My favorite exercise is squats.

Here’s one of Jim’s favorite plant-based recipes, Garlic Kale Chips!

Garlic Kale Chips (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

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• Author: The Plant-Powered Dietitian

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Ingredients

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• 1 bunch of kale
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2 teaspoon of garlic powder 

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
2. Rinse kale – remove the stems and tear large pieces into smaller ones, let dry and then place into bowl.
3. Toss with olive oil, sea salt, & garlic powder.
4. Spread kale mixture evenly on the baking sheet in just one layer.
5. Bake for 20 minutes then switch oven to broil and broil on high for 3 minutes.
6. Let cool and enjoy.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1