'The Biggest Loser''s Burgandy on her 51-Pound Weight Loss
 NBC/ NBC |
When Burgandy Keel began "The Biggest Loser," she weighed 231 pounds. Now, the 35-year-old from Eagle Mountain, Utah has shed 51 pounds and has a new lease on life. ET talks to the ousted contestant about how she maintained a positive attitude after her injury on the show, visiting Bob Harper's house and how she is doing at home.
You had such a positive attitude, despite being injured and not allowed to participate in the challenge to save yourself from elimination. Was there one thing at the ranch that happened that inspired you?
Burgandy Keel: I think the other contestants were truly the people who inspired me the most. I would see them up at midnight on the treadmills working out just to make sure they gave it 110 percent.
You had a really rare opportunity to have dinner at Bob's house. How was that experience and did it make you think about becoming vegan?
Burgandy Keel: Bob is so gracious and we were so blessed to be able to go to his house this season. He has never done this before. When we saw the meal, I couldn't believe the colors and the rich smells and it was so filling. But, on the other hand, I don't know if I am ready to go vegan. Right now, I am just trying to eat whole foods every day.
What is the one thing that you are doing now but couldn't do before?
Burgandy Keel: The funny thing is I went to the movies with my husband and my hips didn't touch the sides. I couldn't believe it. There are so many little things in life you take for granted, like being comfortable in a movie seat. That is one thing I have noticed: things are much looser.
What is the one specific food that has been the hardest to give up?
Burgandy Keel: For myself, Chinese food has been the hardest thing not to go back to. It was my go-to food before. I really love the idea of having it, but I know that the calories are going to keep me in the gym longer and it is just not worth it anymore.
What surprised you the most now that you are watching the show on TV?
Burgandy Keel: I have been a little bit disappointed, honestly, that I was left on the cutting-room floor. If you are not moaning or groaning or crying, you didn't get much air time. That was disappointing for me. Also, I wish they had shown more of the camaraderie between us as contestants. Something I was sorry not to be able to relive is how much I care about these other people.
In hindsight, do you have any regrets that you had lap band surgery?
Burgandy Keel: At the time, my husband was deployed and I was actually working out, training five days a week for a half-marathon. What ended up happening is I just wasn't dropping weight like I wanted to. I was frustrated and it ended up being a snap decision. That is what I regret. The lap band, just like everything else, is a tool, just like diet and exercise. I wasn't emotionally ready to do it at that time. I do regret that aspect of it. Would I have it reversed now? No. I am just trying to live with it. In the future, I would tell someone please consider it more before you do it.
We saw your daughter on the show last night. How has your experience on the ranch affected her?
Burgandy Keel: That particular daughter -- she is my 15-year-old -- she is already a track star here in Utah. She qualified for state this year. So for her, she was already doing those things. The way she has changed is she and I have become closer and have been able to bond more over this experience.
"The Biggest Loser" airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. on NBC.
Top Headlines
 |
 |
 |