I went through the same thing! Everyone seems to think that the band is cheating. Well, it's not! It is still hard work, it is just like you said that the band will keep you from putting the weight back on. I got all kinds of negativity from friends and co-workers. I finally decided just to keep my mouth shut and get it done. Now that my co-workers/ friends are seeing my weightloss, they haven't said anything negative to me. How can they? The band WORKS! Having a band is great and I feel you should get yours and starting living your life!:clap2: