Jelly Roll, a 39-year-old country artist, has embarked on an extraordinary path. In the past year, he has shed an astonishing 110 pounds, with a significant milestone achieved during the 2 Bears 5K race in April 2024 when he lost 70 pounds through rigorous training. His commitment to this transformation is truly inspiring.

"From Weight Loss to Fentanyl Advocacy: Jelly Roll's Inspiring Story"

Embracing a New Lifestyle

To maintain his progress, Jelly Roll adopted a high-protein diet and incorporated regular exercise into his daily routine. He dedicated himself to activities like daily basketball sessions and boxing. His nutrition coach, Ian Larios, played a crucial role by providing him with healthy meal plans and recipes, which have been instrumental in his weight loss journey.Not only has his physical appearance changed significantly, but Jelly Roll has also noticed remarkable improvements in his mental health and overall lifestyle. This transformation has been a life-altering experience for him.

Battle with Food Addiction Since Childhood

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Jelly Roll opened up about his battle with food addiction that began in his childhood in Antioch, Tennessee. He shared, "The battle was with the food addiction, changing the way I’ve looked at food for the last 39 years. I’ve never had a healthy relationship with food, so that was the hard part. But once you get into that discipline and commitment, it’s like an avalanche. Once that little snowball started rolling, it was on its way."He further added, "Nobody in my house ever had [a healthy relationship with food], so that was the hard part, really fighting that demon at first and getting into that discipline and that commitment."

Weight Loss Journey Continues

Jelly Roll also disclosed how he has transformed his lifestyle to support his weight loss efforts. He said, "I’m probably down 70-something pounds. I’ve been really kicking a–, man. I’m doing two to three miles a day, four to six days a week. I’m doing 20 to 30 minutes in the sauna, six minutes in a cold plunge every day. I’m eating healthy right now."He expressed, "I feel really good. I was thinking, I plan on losing another 100, 100-and-something [pounds]. If I feel this good down this weight, man, I can only imagine what I’m going to feel like by the time I go on tour." As of November, he has already lost over 110 pounds.

Championing the Fight Against Fentanyl

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, has become a prominent voice in the fight against the fentanyl epidemic. His dedication stems from his personal struggles with addiction and the tragic loss of loved ones to overdoses. Concerned for his children's safety, he has expressed deep fears about the dangers of fentanyl-laced substances.In a recent interview, he stated, "My daughter will never experience the safety of experimenting with drugs… It’s not safe for any kid to be doing anything."

Using Platform to Advocate for Change

In addition to advocating for legislative change, Jelly Roll utilizes his platform to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl. During his concerts, he often addresses the crisis, sharing heartfelt personal stories and promoting open conversations about addiction and its impact. He firmly believes that these dialogues are crucial steps towards healing and prevention."We’ve seen crack. We’ve seen cocaine. We’ve seen opioids. But we’ve never seen something that is so deadly in such small amounts that’s being mixed in so many different things," he told PEOPLE. Having faced addiction himself, Jelly Roll understands the devastating impact drugs can have on a person.His efforts also extend to hands-on community engagement. He actively supports programs aimed at minimizing drug-related harm by visiting rehabilitation centers, providing meals, and offering encouragement to those battling addiction. He emphasizes the importance of giving back and using his own experiences to inspire others on their journeys toward recovery and positive transformation.

Voicing Concern Over the Fentanyl Epidemic

He expressed profound concern that his children could become victims of the fentanyl epidemic, a crisis that tragically claims the lives of over 150 people in the U.S. daily."My daughter [Bailee Ann] will never experience the safety of experimenting with drugs," he added. "I know that sounds crazy to say, but when I was a kid, my mother would be like, ‘You’re going to try everything once. Just be safe.’"