I feel like I keep gaining and losing the same 3lbs. 3lbs in a week (on and off) is a huge fluctuation so I know it's obviously not fat. I'm feeling really discouraged. Anyone have any words of wisdom?

it's just water! sometimes your body tests you to see if you have the willpower to be persistent. chin up and hang in there!

I say keep up the good work. You have lost over 35 pounds. I know you sound frustrated but you are doing something right.

From your user name, I guess you exercise? Especially when we exercise, the scale is really deceptive. Assuming you are staying on plan, just know that persistence will pay off. But do be sure you are on plan.

Maybe you are hitting a plateau and your body is trying to balance itself out? Changing up your routine may help, or at least help you to feel better.

It's not really a plateau actually. My lowest weight was 158lbs so I've gained back a good bit in the last 18 months. Not sure how or why. I've been doing purely cardio lately too.

I'm trying to keep positive, but I'm just frustrated. I'm sure everyone can relate. Thanks for the support.

Remember that this is a long term set of behaviors, not a short term commitment. Does it matter if you lose three pounds a few times over if, long term, you've lost all your excess weight? What difference does a month or three in the weight loss phase make over the course of the rest of your life? I can strongly attest to the fact that even though it sucks to be in the middle of it, the difference is completely forgettable even six weeks further down the road, let alone six year or six decades!

Just be persistent and remember that the tortoise was the one who won the race