I was banded on 2-4-08, and I have been losing weight since I was banded. This week I gained one pound, and I know it's not much weight....but I want to continue losing weight. I have increased my cardio workout to an average of 45 minutes on the t-mill. Any suggestions?

You really don't have any restriction until you get enough fills to reach your "sweet spot". I'm not there yet! I bet you're losing inches with all your exercising. Are you measuring?

I think in every weight loss program the loss comes in phases, with rapid initial loss, then plateaus, then slightly slower continued loss. Sometimes after plateau-ing for a few days, there'll be a sudden rapid loss to compensate.

I think how much you actually weigh isn't as straightforward as calories in MINUS calories used - I think you burn fat at a pretty good rate, but things like salty foods, hormone cycles in women, retaining Water etc all change what you see at the scales.

Ever watched The Biggest Loser? If so, you've seen contestants who've deprived themselves of calories, worked out for hours in the gym and on special challenges etc bet astonished to find they've only lost 1/2 pound in a week of hellacious work - sometimes it's just that way.

If you're a big guy, and are exercising, and not taking in that many calories, you're burning fat, even if the number on the scale doesn't seem to be changing...

Try not to get to concern if some weeks you do not lose or even gain a pound here and there.

Even though we feel we should be rewarded by losing weight every week the body adjust along the way.

The basic idea is to follow the plan and pick up on little victories along the way and enjoy your new life.

Joe! Congrats on the 100!