Many of you have come to know James through his research, informative seminars and popular blog, 20/20 Insights. His expert advice and commentary on obesity, nutrition and exercise has kept us all up-to-date on medical research and how it is currently reflected in today's society.
You're likely familiar with his extensive background: undergraduate and graduate degrees in exercise science, master's degree in nutrition, a personal training certification, and his research published in a wide variety of journals and publications.
Well, we wanted to get to know James a little better and go behind-the-scenes. Like, how does he pick his blog topics each week? What is his motivation for keeping a blog? What is the biggest challenge he has seen 20/20 Clients and Alumni encounter? So, we have provided a brief question and answer session with our senior researcher for all to enjoy.
Q: So James, what was your motivation for starting your blog?
A: I wanted to help establish a strong web presence for 20/20. Until recently we have not had much out there on the web related to our program. Also, I find that once people find out my occupation as a researcher they tend to ask me questions on all sorts of topics.
In this field, there is a lot of misinformation. I am extremely driven by evidence-based, factual information and a blog is a great way to help dispel a lot of those myths and inaccuracies that have become pervasive in today's society.
Q: We know you have been covering an abundance of topics from chronicling the Biggest Loser, dispelling Medical Myths, discussing Childhood Obesity, and many more. Do you have any set plans for topics in the upcoming months?
A: Well, a blog allows a different approach than that which is required by scientific journals and research articles. I can allow my blog to be driven by what is relevant in the news, current issues pertaining to 20/20 clients, or even topics that are requested from clients and alumni. So, I don't plan too far ahead in regards to blogs, but I definitely have some great ideas in mind for the upcoming months.
Obviously I will continue to discuss this season's Biggest Loser. I also will be touching upon topics such as the genetics of obesity, antioxidants, and food intake. There are also some nutrition topics that I hope to tackle soon that are not necessarily related to obesity, like the current trend and obsession with organic food.
Q: Is there any exciting research going on in 20/20 at the moment that you are able to discuss?
A: We are currently gathering and analyzing the 2007 program statistics. It will be very exciting to compare these program outcomes to previous years. I am also looking into trans-fat replacements and helping mold our program policies for these.
Q: Do you have any lectures, classes or seminars coming up for us to look forward to?
A: In case you missed the "Science of Food Addiction" and "Obesity" lectures last month, we will likely schedule more alumni lectures within the next few months. You'll want to check the Alumni Events section of the 20/20 Community site for the latest information.
I have a "Metabolism Myth" lecture in the works, in which I will discuss how metabolism truly affects weight gain. So many people are misinformed and think that certain people just have "fast metabolisms" that keeps them thin. Not the case. There are other factors contributing to weight loss/gain.
Q: So, what do you think is the biggest challenge or stumbling block for 20/20 Clients?
A: I would say that the biggest challenge for 20/20 clients is sticking with their new lifestyle once they leave the program. Once someone leaves the program, it can be awfully tempting to revert back to old habits. And that, of course, is why we have our ever expanding alumni program…to help give people the tools they will need to maintain their weight and healthy lifestyle.
Q: Okay, so then what do you think is the most important thing that 20/20 Alumni can do post-program to stay successful?
A: Maintaining a source of accountability is absolutely essential. This could be through hiring a personal trainer for regular appointments, checking in with a dietician once a month, or any other combination of support and accountability. Living in today's modern environment which is focused on highly processed foods and little exercise can be tough …having something or someone to keep you "in check" can work wonders.
Q: Many clients want to know what our providers do to stay healthy. They are sometimes incredulous that we actually prescribe to the advice in which we are giving? Do you actually meal track every day? How closely do you follow the program?
A: I don't currently meal track every day, although I used to. After a number of years of daily meal tracking, I became so cognizant of what I was eating that it just became second nature.
I do pay close attention to the types of foods I that I eat. I have a very low saturated fat intake, a high protein intake, and I avoid hydrogenated fats and refined carbohydrates. I also get at least one serving of fruits and vegetables per meal. I eat 5-6 times per day.
Q: You often talk about clients needing to keep up their new lifestyle after the program. What are the tools you use to combat the obesity epidemic? What is your exercise routine? Do you have a "secret sauce" ?
My exercise frequency varies, but is a bare minimum of 3 days per week. Typically it's more like 5 days per week. I only take time off exercising when I am sick. Also, every 3 to 6 months I will actually plan a week off from the gym to allow my body some rest and recovery time.
My exercise routine is a non-negotiable, a planned part of my day…like brushing my teeth. The only thing that is negotiable is the time of day in which it occurs. The time I work out might vary depending on my schedule, but I always make sure it gets done. I will go even if I am tired and just don't feel like going. Just like anyone else, there are days where I have to force myself to go….days where I would much rather stay home and rest. I just always remember who much better that I am going to feel once I finish!
Q: Okay James, we do want to find out at least a few personal items…tell us, what is your favorite exercise and what is your favorite food?
Well, for my "formal" exercise, I like free weight training. Weighted dips are my favorite gym exercise. For my recreational activities, I have become addicted to the sport of kiteboarding.
I can't say that I actually have a particular food favorite. My favorite "not-so-healthy" option is garlic cheese bread at a favorite local restaurant. Although, for a more healthy option, I do love a good lean chicken breast or steak. I have this one low-fat marinade recipe that makes these proteins taste really great. Now that I mentioned it, I suppose I will have to share it sometime!
We'd like to thank James for this brief look into his perspective on health, blogging and the 20/20 program. For more of his insights and analysis, please read or subscribe to his blog, 20/20 Insights.
