scared to move up, need some reassurance

In the Netherlands the CD program advises you to SS until 2 kgs (about 4 lbs) below target weight and then move up in the plans, to have a little buffer for the expected gain from the carbs. Our steps differ from the UK ones as well, every step takes about 1 week and after 3 weeks you're on your own, so 1200 calories and no shakes anymore.

As I read a lot about the UK version on this message board I don't feel comfortable with that. I don't even feel comfortable with SS-ing right now, but I wanted to continue until my first AAM-week, which starts tomorrow. Then I'm going to move up in the plans, but slowly, I plan to take 2 weeks for every step.

Now someone told me that I had to have the buffer of 2 kgs, because I would surely gain the weight right away (this advice from someone who lost and then gained 25 kgs in a year....). This made me a bit insecure.
I know that if I do this properly the weight actually will stay of and I'll lose the last 5 pounds as well. My sis in law is moving up the steps and she still loses weight, so why wouldnt I?

To make a long story short, I desperately need some reasurance from people who have been there and actually did lose the last pounds while moving up the steps :ashamed0005:

TIA!

Hi Tia

Let me be the one to reassure you! I actually moved up the plans early when I was over a stone above my BMI 25 and actually lost that final weight on the plans, mainly on 1000. So, yes if you follow the plans you should still continue to lose weight. It is always a good idea to do a couple of weeks on each step as in the first week you can stay the same or put on slightly due to the increased carbs but it will sort itself out so don't worry.

Finally, well done on your loss and enjoy maintenance!

xxx