When Kelleen Burgess, 63, decided to take control of her health, she had no idea how her journey would help her through the most challenging time of her life. Her goal wasn’t just losing weight—she wanted to reclaim her vitality. So she signed up for nutritionist Ann Louise Gittleman’s Fat Flush diet and crossed her fingers that this time, she could finally drop those unwanted pounds.
How the Fat Flush diet helped Kelleen lose 80 pounds
Kelleen was intrigued by the lifestyle-eating plan that focuses on detoxing the liver (the body’s number one fat-burner) and uncovering sneaky reasons that block weight loss. With a mix of recipes that are paleo-, keto- and vegan-friendly, plus tips to nourish the thyroid and gallbladder, the plan seemed like a well-balanced approach that would give her the metabolism boost and energy she was after.
A size 24 and weighing nearly 300 pounds, Kelleen knew it was time for a change. So in 2022, she started eating more healthy fats, lean protein and low-glycemic carbs and lost an impressive 80 lbs.
“I feel good,” Kelleen remarked as she noticed the pounds start to fall off and her clothes fitting better. “I know I’m giving my body everything it needs: the right proteins, vitamins and supplements to stay healthy.”
Another key component of the eating plan: sipping cran-water, a liver-cleansing blend of cranberry juice and water that helps flush “false fat” or water weight. Kelleen was enjoying so much success that her doctor even praised her steady weight loss of half a pound a day, calling it an ideal and healthy pace. But in January 2024, tragedy struck and Kelleen’s world ground to a halt.
Turning grief into purpose: Kelleen’s advocacy for families affected by overdose
Kelleen’s son, Austin Burgess, passed away from fentanyl poisoning at the age of 33. He had taken pain pills, unaware that they had been laced with fatal amounts of fentanyl. He passed within minutes, and Kelleen’s world was shattered by her son’s accidental death.
Amid a deep sense of loss, Kelleen channeled her pain into purpose. She and two other grief-stricken mothers founded Family & Friends of Overdose, a support group for those who have lost loved ones to fentanyl-related deaths.
“It’s heartbreaking to see so many young people losing their lives to fentanyl,” Kelleen tells supporters. “In too many instances, one dose of this poisonous substance is all it takes. Just like that, your child is gone. This group gives us a space to grieve, to connect and, most importantly, to raise awareness.”
How Kelleen found strength to recommit to the Fat Flush diet after tragedy
Though her weight crept back up during this especially stressful time, Kelleen eventually rejoined the Fat Flush Plan. Only this time, she promised herself a deeper focus on self-care to help give her the strength to carry her through her grief.
“If you don’t take care of yourself, no one else will,” Kelleen says.
Her routine is simple but effective: two shakes a day, one healthy meal and healthy snacks, the right supplements and a mindset focused on feeling good. As an employee at Satay Bistro in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Kelleen’s passion for food and wellness has come full circle.
The bistro is known for its organic, locally grown menu items and has been a source of inspiration for Kelleen. It’s also where she met restaurant regular (and Fat Flush creator) Ann Louise Gittleman, PhD—an encounter that deepened her connection to wellness and encouraged her to keep pushing forward on her journey.
Today, Kelleen weighs 237 pounds and is well on her way to her goal. Plus she feels more energized and confident than she has in ages.
While she continues to focus on her own health, losing inches and building strength, she also dedicates herself to helping other grieving families navigate their loss. Her commitment is a reminder that self-care isn’t just about looking good—it’s about having the strength to face life’s toughest moments.
Tips for success on the Fat Flush diet from Kelleen and Ann Louise Gittleman
Despite the profound challenge she faced, Kelleen has continued her remarkable weight-loss transformation. Here’s what she did to melt pounds and restore her health:
- Follow the Fat Flush Kit regimen for continued results
- Incorporated the Radical Metabolizer to enhance her weight-loss efforts
- Made herself a priority
“Take care of yourself first,” Kelleen now advises others. “You have to love yourself and set an example for others, especially in the hardest of times.”
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
