I successfully kept the weight off for 7 years and had to return to IP in yr 8. The reason is no surprise- pizza, turkey burgers, fries, donuts, cake, cookies almost everyday with no exercise. To be successful in maintenance, the same principles were all doing apply. Be mindful of portions, get your veggies with every meal, balance your food/time between meals, etc. Mixing fat with carbs will be the key that encourages your body to store fat - so don't choose this everyday. IP teaches you that don't need a 23 oz porterhouse or a pint of ice cream. There are healthier options, including ongoing use of IP or IP-like snacks if you so choose. This is a lifestyle change and for it to last, the protocol principles need to be followed - with far less restrictions. Plus you'll be able to add exercise. Also, I had set a max weight gain I would tolerate and then back to IP if I waivered. Over those 7 years, I turned to my fav products occasionally to get my head back in the game.