First, let me say that I am very greatful for the Alli lifestyle change and all the help and support that is on this site. Because of this, I have lost 26 lbs since Jan. 2008.

 My question is: Why was I  put into the next phase of the program (approx 7 weeks ago) when I have not reached my goal weight yet? Is it because I am now at a healthy BMI of 24?  I still have 8 to 13 more lbs to go. I also feel that there is not as much support and encouragement in the next phase, as the first part of the program with the Steps.

My recommendation was for 1200 cal / 12 gms fat which I am still doing, but I have stopped taking the pills for the next 3 weeks and will restart taking them then to see if I can re-jump start my weight loss. I have been maintaining approx the same weight (plateau) for about 2 months.

I'm just looking for some advice and encouragment to get to my goal. Please advise..........

Congratulations on your weight loss.  That's a great accomplishment!  Let me take this a little out of order.  Whenever someone mentions they're at a plateau I always recommend they weigh and measure everything they eat and drink for a week.  That's the best way to check accuracy.  It's very, very easy to underestimate portion sizes and, especially, when someone's been at it for a while it's easy to have a few extra calories here, a few extra there sneak in -- and the next thing there's no weight loss.

Keep in mind that the closer you get to goal weight the slower the loss will be.  That's the body's way of protecting itself an making sure there's some stored energy (body fat) around for an emergency.

The other thing is to increase the intensity of your activity.  Make it harder, not longer.  That will help burn more calories and may jumpstart you again

Yes, your BMI of 24 - now considered in the "normal" range - is why you got the next phase.  That all comes through the Personal Calculator (based on the info provided at the start of the Program) that changes calorie and fat levels, etc.

You've done a terrific job so Keep on keepin' on!  And keep coming back to the board.  We're all here to help you!

Pat Baird, MA, RD, registered dietitian

 Pat.......Thank you soooo much for your response. You hit the nail right on.......As much as I wanted to believe that I was within my cal/fat range (from being experienced...lol) It seems that I HAVE been going over a bit lately. Also, I had slacked off my nutrition logging as I used to use this faithfully for the first 5 months. You have reopened my eyes and I have started logging back in today and will continue to stay focused on it as it is a great tool. When you think you have it down packed......don't give up the nutrition log!  Lesson learned. Also I was working out longer, instead of intensifyng the workout. I feel a fresh new start about to happen.

Great advice and thanks for bringing back to reality...lol

You are sooo welcome.  Really!  I'm very glad this was helpful.  It's easy to let those little things creep back in, and first it's a plateau and then it's a few pounds, etc.

It's wonderful that you're able to look back with such clarity and see exactly what you were doing, and exactly what you need to do now, and move forward.

Bravo!

Pat