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It’s (still) that time in New Orleans for Louisiana foodies. Yes, we’re talking about oyster season. If you love the little sea creatures charbroiled or fried, this oyster season is going to be good to you.
When Is New Orleans’ Oyster Season?
Oyster season in New Orleans runs roughly from September 1 to May 1 of the following year. That’s when oyster harvesting season takes place.
During that time, which corresponds to winter through the spring, you can enjoy some of the top oyster varieties and dishes.
If you choose to eat oysters outside of that season, you could get some that have a watery or “fishy” taste, or worse, come down with a bad case of food poisoning!
What Kind Of Oysters Does New Orleans Have?
New Orleans, quite naturally, is known for its Gulf oyster, which is harvested and used by many of the local restaurants, oyster bars and fish houses in the region.
Where Do Locals Go For Oysters On A Half Shell?
Bourbon Street has plenty of oyster joints, of course, you can’t go wrong with Acme, which is perhaps the most renown spot in the city. No matter how you like them — raw, chargrilled, or Rockefeller style — you can get them in New Orleans.
Final Word
Remember, oyster season in Louisiana is from around Labor Day to April 30 of the next year. Anytime outside of that, you’ll have to trust the reputation of the restaurant.
Eating in season is one of the best ways to enjoy Louisiana cuisine. From oysters to crawfish and other delicacies, pay attention to the calendar before you order from the menu.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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As temperatures dip and holiday gatherings bring families closer together, health officials are reporting a sharp rise in influenza cases across Louisiana, with New Orleans feeling the impact.
The state is among those with “very high” flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local experts warn that a mutated strain dubbed the “super flu” by some is driving much of the surge.
Superflu Surges in Louisiana, Elsewhere
Louisiana has seen flu-related emergency room visits more than double in recent weeks, with over 3,500 reported for the week ending December 13 alone.
Infectious disease specialists at LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University say the dominant strain this season — influenza A(H3N2) subclade K — emerged after this year’s vaccine was formulated, leading to a partial mismatch that may result in more infections and potentially severe symptoms.
“This subclade K variant is fueling about 90% of cases nationwide and is particularly worrisome because H3N2 strains often hit harder, especially in children and the elderly,” said Dr. Fred Lopez, an infectious disease professor at LSU Health.
Local pediatricians, including those at Children’s Hospital New Orleans and Tulane, report packed wards with unvaccinated kids experiencing intense illness.While the term “super flu” has gained traction in headlines, experts clarify it’s still seasonal influenza — just more evasive and widespread this year due to its mutations.
Common Symptoms to Watch ForFlu symptoms typically onset suddenly and can feel like being “hit by a truck.” This year’s dominant strain presents similarly to past seasons but may feel more intense for some:
- High fever or chills
- Severe body aches and muscle pain
- Persistent cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Extreme fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
- In children, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness from dehydration
Doctors note that vaccinated individuals often experience milder cases, recovering at home, while unvaccinated patients are more likely to require hospitalization.
Why Now? Cooler Weather and Holiday Risks
As New Orleans sees milder but cooler days — with highs in the mid-70s this weekend before a potential drop early next week — people are spending more time indoors, facilitating spread. Holiday travel and gatherings are expected to amplify transmission.
Dr. John Schieffelin, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Tulane, emphasizes that low adult vaccination rates (under 50% nationally) are contributing to the outbreak.Prevention and Treatment TipsHealth officials urge residents to take action:
- Get vaccinated: It’s not too late — the shot still protects against severe outcomes, even with the mismatch.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, cover coughs, and stay home if sick.
- Seek early treatment: Antivirals like Tamiflu can shorten illness if started within 48 hours of symptoms.
- Test if needed: At-home flu/COVID tests can help distinguish illnesses.
High-risk groups — including children, seniors, pregnant people, and those with chronic conditions — should contact a doctor promptly if symptoms appear.
For the latest updates, visit the Louisiana Department of Health or CDC websites. Stay safe, New Orleans — flu season is here, but awareness and precautions can make all the difference.
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As the holiday season reaches its peak, a potent strain of influenza A, dubbed the “superflu” by experts, is sweeping across the United States, with Louisiana emerging as one of the hardest-hit states.
This variant, known scientifically as influenza A H3N2 subclade K, has sparked widespread concern due to its rapid spread and potential for severe illness, prompting local health authorities to urge residents to take immediate preventive measures.
The “superflu” first gained attention earlier this winter when it fueled an early and intense flu season in the United Kingdom, arriving about a month ahead of schedule and hinting at broader global implications.
Now, it’s making headlines in the U.S., with cities like New York experiencing outbreaks and health experts warning of a surge as Christmas approaches.
In Louisiana, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has classified flu activity as “very high,” placing the state alongside New Jersey, Rhode Island, and others in the top tier of influenza hotspots. New Orleans, in particular, is seeing a sharp rise in cases, with doctors reporting increased hospitalizations, especially among children and the elderly.
What Is the Superflu and Why Is It Concerning?
The subclade K variant isn’t entirely new, but its mutations allow it to spread more efficiently than typical seasonal flu strains.
Symptoms mirror those of regular influenza but can escalate quickly, including high fever, severe cough, body aches, fatigue, and in some cases, complications like pneumonia.
Nationwide, the 2025-2026 flu season has already claimed lives, with the CDC reporting three pediatric deaths this week alone, bringing the total to a concerning number amid rising activity. masslive.com +1 In Louisiana, which leads the U.S. in week-by-week increases of suspected influenza cases, experts predict cases will climb further over the holidays due to gatherings and travel.
Local hospitals in New Orleans, such as Ochsner Health and Tulane Medical Center, are preparing for an influx of patients. “We’re seeing so much flu already, and it’s hitting kids especially hard,” said Dr. Emily Carter, an infectious disease specialist at LSU Health Sciences Center.
The early onset of the season—activity picked up in October and has remained elevated through December—has experts worried about a prolonged and severe winter.
While COVID-19 and RSV cases are on the rise but less dominant this year, the flu’s dominance has led to over 1,900 deaths nationwide so far, underscoring the urgency for vigilance.
How to Prevent the Flu: Expert Tips for New Orleans Residents
Preventing the superflu follows the same proven strategies as for any influenza strain, but with heightened emphasis given the current surge. Health officials strongly recommend the following steps:
- Get Vaccinated: The annual flu shot remains the most effective defense. This year’s vaccine is well-matched to circulating strains, including subclade K, and can reduce the risk of severe illness by up to 60%. Vaccinations are available at pharmacies, clinics, and pop-up sites across New Orleans—check with the Louisiana Department of Health for locations. It’s not too late; protection kicks in within two weeks.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public spaces like the French Quarter or during Mardi Gras preparations. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t available.
- Avoid Close Contact: Stay home if you’re feeling unwell, and maintain distance from those who are sick. Wear a mask in crowded indoor settings, such as streetcars or holiday events, to curb transmission.
- Boost Your Immune System: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly. For vulnerable groups like seniors or those with chronic conditions, consider antiviral medications if exposed.
- Monitor Symptoms and Seek Care: If you experience flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor promptly. Early treatment with antivirals like Tamiflu can shorten the illness and prevent complications.
The CDC emphasizes that while the superflu is serious, it’s not invincible—community efforts in vaccination and hygiene can significantly blunt its impact.
As New Orleans gears up for a busy holiday and Carnival season, staying informed and proactive is key to keeping the community healthy.
For the latest updates, visit the CDC’s flu tracker or the Louisiana Department of Health website. If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, head to your nearest emergency room or call 911. Stay safe, NOLA.
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Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine check-ups reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. For example, maintaining a healthy weight can lower the chance of type 2 diabetes by up to 58%.
Physical health supports mental well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Poor health, like chronic pain, can worsen mental health, creating a vicious cycle.
This article will tell you some easy things you can do to manage your health.
Here’s How To Take Care Of Your Health
Taking care of your health is an important part of maintaining a happy and fulfilling life. Here are some tips to help you take care of your health:
Eat A Balanced And Nutritious Diet
Your body needs a variety of nutrients to function properly, so it’s important to eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Here are the best healthy foods you should eat.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and improve your mental health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Read how you can get in shape fast.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep every night is absolutely crucial for both your physical and mental well-being. It’s like giving your body a chance to recharge and restore, allowing you to function at your best the next day.
Getting enough sleep can make the difference between functioning properly during the day and being a low achiever physically and mentally. Most adults need between 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
While you slumber, your body repairs and rebuilds tissues, essential for muscle recovery and overall health.
Sleep also plays a big role in regulating your hormones. Adequate sleep has been linked to lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
A good mattress will help.
Read our guide on the best mattresses to buy.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can have negative effects on your health, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress. This can include practicing mindfulness, getting regular exercise, and spending time with loved ones.
Here are some other reasons why managing stress is super important:
- Weakened immune system: Stress hormones can suppress your immune function, making you more susceptible to illness and infection.
- Increased risk of heart disease: Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and inflammation, all risk factors for heart disease.
- Digestive problems: Stress can trigger digestive issues like stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome,
Practice Good Hygiene
Practicing good hygiene habits, such as washing your hands regularly, can help prevent the spread of illness and infection.
Some other ways you can practice good hygiene include:
- Washing your hands frequently: Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is crucial throughout the day, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, after handling pets, and after blowing your nose.
- Brushing and flossing your teeth: Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, and floss once a day to remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth.
- Cleaning your face: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. This helps remove dirt, oil, and bacteria, preventing breakouts and irritation.
Get Regular Check-Ups
Going to the doctor regularly is a necessity. Seeing a healthcare provider for regular check-ups and screenings can help detect health issues early, when they are easier to treat.
Avoid Harmful Habits
Avoiding habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can help protect your health.
Final Word
As the adage goes, health is wealth. By following these tips, you can help maintain your physical and mental health and improve your overall well-being.
Here’s what to eat before a workout.
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Using a face cream daily can really make your smile, well, glow, keeping your skin resilient and healthy long-term. The hard part is that relatively few of us know which face creams are beneficial.
This article will show you the best face creams to use on a regular basis.
What’s The Difference Between A Face Cream And A Moisturizer?
Face creams are typically thicker than moisturizers because they are made up of so much more oil. Because of that, creams are generally used less frequently than moisturizers. With that being said, many retailers use the terms “face cream” and “moisturizer” interchangeably.
Make sure you read the label to find out if you’re allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients listed on the product.
Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s talk about face creams!
What Face Creams Are Good For Daily Use?
When it comes to daily use, we’ve gathered up some stellar creams that you can try immediately.
Olay Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Brightening Face Moisturizer
L’Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Cream
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Nourishing Lip Balm
Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Moisturizer
Pond’s Dark Spot Corrector Clarant B3
Eucerin Q10 Anti Wrinkle Face Cream Bundle
Face creams are beneficial because they address multiple skin needs effectively. They hydrate by locking in moisture, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy skin barrier—especially since dehydrated skin can lead to irritation, flakiness, or even excess oil production as the skin overcompensates. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides in many face creams pull in and retain water, keeping skin plump and smooth.
They also protect against environmental damage. Many face creams contain antioxidants like vitamin C or E, which neutralize free radicals from UV rays, pollution, or blue light that can break down collagen and cause premature aging. Some even include SPF for direct sun protection, reducing the risk of wrinkles, dark spots, and skin cancer.
Face creams can improve skin texture and tone, too. Ingredients like retinol or peptides stimulate cell turnover and collagen production, smoothing fine lines and firming the skin over time. For specific concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation, creams with salicylic acid, niacinamide, or alpha hydroxy acids can reduce breakouts, calm inflammation, and even out discoloration.
They also support the skin’s natural repair process, especially when used at night. While you sleep, your skin regenerates, and a good cream can enhance this by providing nutrients and preventing moisture loss, so you wake up with a fresher complexion.
Consistency matters—using a face cream daily can lead to cumulative benefits, keeping your skin resilient and healthy long-term. That said, not all creams work for everyone; the benefits depend on choosing one suited to your skin type and concerns.
Final Word
No matter if you’re trying to reduce wrinkles or just smooth out your skin, cream is a good thing.
Now that you’ve seen some of the best face creams on the market, you may be thinking about which one is best for you. Obviously, each brand has its good points and otherwise.
When deciding to buy a face cream, think about how it can promote skin hydration for your particular type of skin.
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Medical prescription delivery offers a range of benefits that enhance the overall patient experience and improve healthcare outcomes. Here are some key advantages. Patients can receive their medications directly at home, saving time and effort associated with traveling to and from the pharmacy.
Reducing the need to visit crowded pharmacies minimizes exposure to illnesses, especially important during flu seasons or pandemics. For sensitive medications, delivery services offer a discreet way to receive prescriptions without the potential stigma of picking them up in person.
Here Are the Best Prescription Delivery Services
Service Cost Same-Day Delivery CVS Health Home delivery fees have been waived Yes Walgreens Free with standard online shipping or if you sign up for Express Delivery Yes Amazon PillPack Service and shipping are free No Walmart Free standard shipping with all mail order requests. Call 1-800-2REFILL for details No Prescription delivery services are becoming increasingly important for several reasons:
- Convenience: They offer patients the ease of receiving medications at home, reducing the need for trips to the pharmacy, which can be especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or busy schedules.
- Access to Medications: For individuals in rural or underserved areas, delivery services can help ensure access to necessary medications that might not be readily available locally.
- Adherence to Medication: By making it easier to obtain prescriptions, these services can improve medication adherence. Patients are less likely to miss doses if they have their medications delivered regularly.
- Safety and Privacy: Delivery services can offer a level of privacy that some patients appreciate, particularly for sensitive medications. They also minimize the risk of exposure to illnesses in crowded pharmacy settings.
- Technology Integration: Many delivery services integrate with health apps, allowing for easy refills, reminders, and tracking of medication schedules, which enhances the overall healthcare experience.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Some services may offer competitive pricing or discounts, making medications more affordable for patients.
- Pandemic Response: The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for contactless services, boosting the adoption of delivery models that ensure people can maintain their health without unnecessary exposure.
- Patient Empowerment: These services empower patients by providing them more control over their healthcare logistics, making it easier for them to manage their own health.
As healthcare continues to evolve, the role of prescription delivery services is likely to grow, further integrating into the overall patient care ecosystem.
Final Word
Some delivery services may offer lower prices or discounts, making medications more affordable and accessible to patients. That’s why you should compare prescription services before you make a purchase decision.
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New Orleans has a rich history with significant contributions from its African-American community, from scientists, doctors, actors, musicians and more.
African-Americans have contributed mightily to the Crescent City’s culture, music, cuisine, and overall identity. From the contributions of enslaved Africans and free people of color to the development of jazz and other musical genres, to the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, Black history is deeply intertwined with the history of New Orleans.
The city’s vibrant Black community has produced numerous influential figures in music, literature, politics, and activism, making it an important center of African American culture in the United States.
Congo Square
Located within Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square was a gathering place for enslaved and free people of color, where African cultural traditions, including music and dance, were preserved and blended with European influences, laying the foundation for jazz and other musical genres.
Creole Culture
New Orleans is home to a unique Creole culture, which developed among the city’s mixed-race population. Creole cuisine, music, and architecture all bear the influence of African, Native American, and European traditions.
The Haitian Connection
After the Haitian Revolution in the early 19th century, many free people of color from Haiti fled to New Orleans, enriching the city’s culture and contributing to its vibrant Creole community.
Civil Rights Movement
New Orleans played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement. The city was the site of several key events, including the 1960 New Orleans school desegregation crisis and the founding of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Notable Figures
New Orleans has been home to many notable Black figures, including jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Jelly Roll Morton, as well as civil rights leaders like A.P. Tureaud and Oretha Castle Haley.
Mardi Gras Indians
The Mardi Gras Indian tradition, where African American communities in New Orleans create elaborate costumes and parade through the streets during Mardi Gras, is a vibrant expression of cultural pride and heritage.
These are just a few examples of the rich Black history in New Orleans, which has contributed significantly to the city’s unique cultural identity.
Final Word
The black experience has defined a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from the innovation of jazz to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.
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A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a great way to put your money away for medical bills and other health-related expenses.
In this article, I will show you how an HSA can help you save money.
What Is an HSA?
An HSA is a savings account that you can fund through tax-deductible contributions. These contributions reduce your taxable income.
Another good thing about an HSA is that anu withdrawals used for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.
How Can an HSA Help You To Save Money
The money in an HSA can be invested, allowing it to grow over time. This growth is tax-free as long as the funds are used for qualified medical expenses.
Another way an HSA allows you to save money is that unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs), funds in an HSA roll over from year to year, so you don’t lose any unused money at the end of the year.
Portability
HSAs are portable, meaning you can keep the account and use the funds even if you change jobs or health insurance plans.
Covering Medical Expenses
Using an HSA to pay for medical expenses can help you avoid using high-interest credit cards or dipping into your emergency savings.
Retirement Savings
Once you turn 65, you can withdraw funds from an HSA for non-medical expenses without penalty (though you’ll pay income tax on the withdrawal). This can make an HSA a useful retirement savings tool.
Final Word
An HSA is a type of savings account that can help you ward off medical expenses.
Your contributions are tax-free and if you wait until retirement age, your withdrawals are too. What’s not to love?
Read more in our Money Section.
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Grocery prices are sky-high right now and there’s not much we can do about them. However, when it comes to our spending habits, there are quite a few things we can do to tighten our financial belts while grocery shopping.
Overall, food prices have jumped nearly 10% over the past year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How To Save On Your Groceries
Here are some of ways you can cut down on your grocery bill.
Eat Inside More
Along with your groceries going up, restaurants are raising their prices as well. Instead of going out to eat as much, see if you can cut down and eat at home more often.
My girlfriend who is a graduate student at Xavier University in New Orleans actually cut down on dining out by relegating one weekend night for restaurant food. Over a two-month span, she saved $300! It can change your life!
Learn some recipes so that you can save more of your cash. Follow this delicious gumbo recipe.
Sign Up For Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime costs $139 a year, but it can save you money on food items that you love. If you have a Whole Foods in your area, you can get a discount on quality items if you’re a Prime member.
You can also save on bulk items that can be shipped to you in two days or less in some cases.
Have you tried it? If not, you can sign up for Amazon Prime at Amazon.com/Prime.
Clip Coupons
I know what you’re thinking: Clipping coupons is so 1990s, but they continue to be a way you can save on foods you love.
Grab the weekly ads from your favorite grocery store and cut out all the food items that you like that are on sale. You can also use online coupons from Coupons.com.
Shop At Discount Stores
Stay away from the Whole Foods grocery aisles if you’re not an Amazon Prime member! Shop instead at discount grocery stores like Save-A-Lot, Aldi and Lidl, where you can find cheaper items.
Buy Generic Brands
One way you can keep more money in your pocket is to buy generic brands rather than the big name brands that are well known.
Make a list of the name-brand items you love then do a Google search for “[name-brand item] alternatives” and see what comes up. You might find a new favorite brand!
Final Word
Although we see the increases in certain foods, we know that our paychecks aren’t increasing at the same rate. That’s why it makes sense to see how we can cut down on our grocery bills.
Not only will our budgets be healthier, but we could actually lose some pounds.
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They say weight loss begins with a change of mindset. I also know it takes a lot of work — exercise and diet discipline!
If you’re trying to drop some pounds, the main thing you need to know is that you can do it. Yes, you can.
CanYou Lose Weight Without Exercising? Yes, Here’s How
This article will show you some easy ways to lose weight without even lifting weights, running or exerting yourself physically.
Are you ready to lose the weight? Let’s get started.
1. Cut The Sugar
You don’t have to do on the latest fad diet to lose weight without exercise, but you do have to eat better and cleaner. The #1 to do that is to cut out sugar.
If you’re serious about losing weight, it’s not enough to just cut down on the sugar, you need to cut it out completely.
2. Drink Plenty Of Water
In addition to cutting the sugar, you’re going to have to increase your water intake big-time.
But how much water should you drink a day? Physicians typically say that the average person needs eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.
That’s the equivalent of drinking a 2 liter of water in a bottle, or a half gallon. That’s a good way to stay hydrated and get your body to flush itself out continually.
3. Get Plenty Of Rest
If you want your body to work for you, you need to get plenty of rest. Going to sleep early can give your body the rest it needs as well as cut down on late-night snacking.
But here’s the thing: Not a lot of people know that the way we actually lose pounds is through our sleep. By sleeping our body emits pounds through our mouth. Get some rest!
If you do want to take your weight loss to another level, there are some things you can buy to bring the gym to your home.
Gym Equipment For Beginners
Workout equipment is an important part of getting in shape. Here are some pieces we recommend:
A Punching Bag
If you want the convenience of working on your body in your own home, you might want to invest in a punching bag. Here are some good ones from Amazon:
Free Weights
You might want to think about investing in some free weights to build muscle and tone along with your workouts. Here are some free weight options from Amazon:
- Adjustable Dumbbells
- AmazonBasics 20 lb Adjustable Barbells
- Balance From BF 32 lb Barbells
- Bowflex Selectech Adjustable Dumbbells
Final Word
You can start the year off right with a little determination and hard work — and you don’t have to do it in the gym.
The key to losing weight is to believe you can do it. You already know that quitters never win, but it’s especially true for those who begin a weight-loss process and toss it aside.
You may also need to drown out the naysayers who say you can’t lose the weight. All that matters is that you develop a program that fits your unique personal journey and all that it entails.
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