Hi all!
With regard to riding and weight gain/loss...
I find I consistently lose about 1lb/.45kg per day while on-tour till my usual 172lb/78kg stabilizes at about 155-160lb/70-73kg. My 2013 tour will likely take 4-5 weeks, so by the end of Week Two I should be at my usual "touring weight". It seems to be a combination of things -- riding with a loaded bike every day in really strenuous conditions, a change in food, and more sleep. I usually sleep about 4 hours each night, varying from 2-6; on tour that goes to 8 and stays there (9PM to 5AM). Also, I find the longer I'm on-tour, the more my appetite declines and I tend to eat less overall, despite the exercise. Being away from snacks helps, as does the added intake of just water instead of other drinks that sometimes have a sugary content.
So, if you want to lose weight, Dr. Danneaux prescribes a nice, extended tour in demanding conditions!
All the best,
Dan.