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Lisa Childs has seen a 10st weight loss after being left embarrassed by a photo taken by her brother. (Lisa Childs/SWNS)

A woman left feeling embarrassed by a photo in which she looked like she was stuck in a chair has seen an incredible 10st (64kg) weight loss.

Lisa Childs, 61, from Elland, West Yorkshire, was mortified by the snap her brother took of her as she squeezed into an arm chair after seeing her weight creep up to 19st 8lbs (124kg).

But the feelings the image conjured sparked the sales assistant into action, inspiring her to ditch fast food for nutritious, home-cooked meals.

Now a trim 9st 8lb (61kg), and having dropped eight dress sizes from 24 to a healthier size 12, Childs is happy to pose for pictures in the chair at her mum's house which inspired the change.

"I didn't realise how big I was," the mum-of-one recalls.

"I had started to lose weight but when he [my brother] sent me that picture, it was like 'Oh my god, I've got to carry on because I can't go back to looking like that.'"

"It definitely inspired me to keep going," she adds.

Read more: Woman sees 12st weight loss after being shocked by pictures of herself on a weekend break

Lisa Childs before her weight loss journey. (Lisa Childs/SWNS)

Childs used to walk her son Max, now 27, to and from school every day, which used to be her daily form of exercise.

But when Max got older and wanted to walk to school with his friends, Childs says she noticed her weight creep up because she wasn't exercising.

"The weight just piled on then because I wasn't taking him to school," Childs, who is married to Stephen, 62, explains.

"It was a good half-an-hour there and back and I would do that in the morning and in the afternoon.

"So I went from doing that to doing nothing," she adds.

Childs holds up her old size 24 clothes. (Lisa Childs/SWNS)

As the years went on, she noticed she would often become breathless when walking up the stairs and would need to "stop half a dozen times" when walking back from the bus stop.

"My breathing was affected because I was carrying so much weight basically," she adds.

Her knees also started to hurt to the extent that it would sometimes became painful to walk.

Story continues

As well as no longer exercising, Childs says her diet included a fair amount of convenience food such as a Chinese takeaway or a frozen pizza, which she'd have two or three times a week.

The turning point came in 2017, when, after joining Slimming World, she made a number of simple swaps to her eating habits, switching a thick white loaf for wholemeal bread and snacking on fruit rather than chocolate bars.

She now cooks almost all her meals from scratch and follows low-calorie recipe versions of her favourite foods, such as Spaghetti Bolognese.

Read more: Woman, 44, says shes fitter now than in her 20s thanks to 7.5st weight loss

Childs says her weight loss has had a huge impact on her life. (Lisa Childs/SWNS)

As well as losing over half her body weight, Childs says it has made a huge difference to her life, particularly as she can now go for daily walks with her Poochon Phoebe without getting breathless or being in pain.

"When I first started, I couldn't really do any exercise and I started losing weight just through Slimming World," Childs explains.

"But we got a dog so I had to walk her for around five minutes and then build it up.

"Now I go out with my friend and walk from Elland to Brighouse, have a coffee and walk back without having to stop."

Childs has also taken on a charity walk of 13 miles to raise money for a local hospice.

"I'm quite proud of it because I never walked before anyway unless I had to," she adds.

"When I think about it, I never would have dreamed of walking that distance, or any distance really."

Read more: Mum's 11st weight loss means she can now keep up with her kids: 'I'm more confident'

As well as losing almost half her body weight, Childs has dropped eight dress sizes. (Lisa Childs/SWNS)

Diet before:

Breakfast: Nothing

Lunch: Beans on toast with white bread and scrambled eggs

Tea: Either a Chinese, fish and chips or a full frozen pizza

Snacks: Chocolate puddings

Diet after:

Breakfast: Fresh fruit with Greek-style, fat-free yoghurt

Lunch: Beans on toast but with wholemeal bread

Tea: A Slimming World ready meal or a fat-free spaghetti bolognese

Snacks: Fruit

Additional reporting SWNS.

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Woman sees incredible 10st weight loss after being embarrassed about her size in a picture - Yahoo Lifestyle UK

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Tequila is one of the most loved beverages in the world. Made from the blue agave plant, it offers a unique taste that is sweet and earthy. The reason why people love this liquor so much is that it can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. You can sip it as is or mix it into different cocktails, there's no limit when it comes to experimenting with tequila. While excessive tequila consumption can have negative health effects, having it in moderation has been associated with some surprising health benefits. Tequila offers some amazing health benefits that we may not know. From promoting weight loss to improving the quality of sleep, here are some health benefits of tequila you should know about.

Also read:5 Surprising Health Benefits Of Beer You May Not Know

If you're someone who is trying to lose weight, a bit of tequila could help. Tequila contains a particular type of sugar called agavins, which promotes weight loss. Agavins are ideal as sweeteners as they are non-digestible and do not raise blood sugar levels, unlike other alcohol sugars.

Since tequila has high levels of insulin, it induces our digestive system to grow good bacteria and improve overall digestion. Several studies suggest that drinking tequila before a meal can boost your metabolism, and an after-dinner shot can help with digestion.

Did you know tequila could also be good for your bones? A substance found in tequila called agave tequilana, may improve our body's absorption of calcium and magnesium, minerals that are essential for bone health. It may also prevent the development of brittle bones.

Also read:Can Wine Be Healthy? 6 Amazing Health Benefits You May Not Know

Tequila is a great source of probiotics due to the presence of agavins. Probiotics are the good bacteria in our gut that help our bodies maintain a healthy balance. The fructans in tequila are known to help these good bacteria flourish and boost our immune system.

Moderate consumption of tequila has also been linked with promoting better quality sleep. Having tequila in small amounts may help calm the nerves and relax the body. It is helpful for insomniacs or others who struggle to fall asleep. However, make sure not to be dependent on it.

So, the next time you plan to drink, opt for tequila without thinking twice! However, it's important to have it in moderation and within recommended guidelines to enjoy its health benefits. Excessive tequila consumption can severely impact your blood sugar and cause damage to your arteries. You may also end up with dry and ageing skin.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

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Drink Tequila, Lose Weight? 5 Surprising Health Benefits Of Tequila - NDTV Food

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1. Legumes

"If you're looking to reduce stomach fat," Pallian says, "incorporating plant-based proteins into your diet can be a great way to do it." Specifically, she recommends eating legumes to get your daily plant-based protein and still lose weight! A legume is a plant or a seed from a plant in the Fabaceae family. And, when it's used as a dry grain, the seed is also called a pulse. Some common legumes include beans, soybeans, chickpeas, peanuts, and more.

"Pulses are a great source of protein and fiber, both of which can help reduce belly fat," Pallian notes. One healthy and tasty recipe you can make with legumes is a spicy chickpea buffalo wrap which she says is a "filling, protein-and-fiber packed lunch idea that includes lots of vibrant vegetables." Yum! Or, try a traditional South Indian red lentil dal (a dish that contains dried pulses that do not require soaking before cooking) that Pallian says is "packed with flavor and takes only 5 minutes of effort!"

Pallian also recommends the plant-based proteins tofu and tempeh to lose visceral fat. Tofu is condensed soy milk that people press into varying levels of softness. The resulting solid white blocks come in silken, soft, firm, extra firm, or super firm levels. Similarly, tempeh or tempe is a traditional Indonesian food that is made from soybeans that are fermented into cake form. It actually contains more fiber and protein than tofu because it contains the whole bean. The soy protein in tempeh is more digestible because of the fermentation process.

"Soy products like tofu and tempeh are excellent plant-based protein sources that may help prevent belly-fat gain after menopause. A study of [15] postmenopausal women found that those who drank a soy-based shake every day for three months tended to gain less abdominal fat than those who did not," Pallian notes. A tofu-based recipe that she highly recommends is chili-garlic tofu.

If you're like us, you may be asking yourself what is "plant-based yogurt?" Pallian explains that plant-based yogurt is, as the name suggests, yogurt made from plants. It's typically made from nuts (like almonds, cashews, and coconuts) and even other foods like soybeans, plantains, oats, and peas. Plant-based yogurts are a great way for those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to milk, or just don't like milk to still get the incredible benefits of dairy-based yogurts!

"A systematic review of research showed a significantly greater weight loss among people taking probiotics, and there is some evidence that probiotics can help specifically reduce belly fat. When choosing a plant yogurt, read labels and compare protein content per serving," Pallian explains. Yogurt can also help reduce stomach inflammation which she says "has been linked to an increase in belly fat."

We probably don't have to tell you how healthy nuts are. Dietitians and nutritionists rave about this food group all the time! They are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats which can help you feel fuller for longer. And, nuts are also low in carbs.

"Nuts are a great snack to help with weight loss. They are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber that can help keep you full for longer and reduce cravings. Studies have found that eating small amounts of nuts helps dieters lose weight," Pallian notes, "A serving of nuts is 1 ounceabout a handfuland has about 160 to 200 calories."

"Protein in general helps keep blood sugar stable to keep energy levels steady and help thwart cravings. And swapping portions of animal proteins for plant proteins not only boosts fiber, antioxidant, and vitamin and mineral intake, it has been linked to decreased inflammation," Pallian says.

To help reduce visceral fat, you can try adopting a diet rich in plant-based protein. Proteins like legumes, tofu and tempeh, plant-based yogurts, and nuts help build and maintain lean muscle, maintain effective metabolic function, and keep you fuller longer. They're brimming with fiber, inflammation-fighting antioxidants, lots of nutrients, and fewer calories!

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4 Surprising Plant-Based Proteins Everyone Should Try Because They Can Take Inches Off Your Waistline - SheFinds

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On today's episode of the 5 Things podcast:US urges Moscow to free 2 Americans

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is urgingRussiato release two Americans. Plus, USA TODAY Health Reporter Karen Weintraub urges caution around new weight lossmedications, the death toll rises astornadoescontinue to slam the nation, USA TODAY Education Reporter Alia Wong explains howwomenmake up most of the country's student loan debt, and theLSU Tigersare national champions.

Podcasts: True crime, in-depth interviews and more USA TODAY podcasts right here.

Hit play on the player above to hear the podcast and follow along with the transcript below. This transcript was automatically generated, and then edited for clarity in its current form. There may be some differences between the audio and the text.

Taylor Wilson:

Good morning. I'm Taylor Wilsonand this is 5 Things you need to know Monday, the 3rd of April 2023. Today, the latest push to free a US journalist in Russia. Plus, what's the downside to recent weight loss drugs, and more tornadoes sweep across the country.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken yesterday urged his Russian counterpart to immediately release two Americans, including a Wall Street Journal reporter detained last week on espionage charges. Blinken expressed grave concern to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov over Russia's detention of journalist Evan Gershkovich, according to a statement from the state department. And he also made a request for Paul Whelan, the corporate security executive imprisoned in Russia since 2018. Lavrov, though, dismissed Blinken's requests and said Gershkovich had received state secrets. A Russian court has ordered him held until May 29th pending an investigation. If convicted, he could face 20 years in a Russian prison.

Effective weight loss drugs are here, bringing a potential solution that many have been waiting on for years. Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy can help someone lose up to 20% of their body weight, but some doctors and other experts worry that these drugs could become a problem long term. I spoke with USA TODAY Health Reporter Karen Weintraub to learn more. Hi Karen.

Karen Weintraub:

Hi.

Taylor Wilson:

So before we get to the downside of these weight loss drugs, what's the upside? Why do people take them in the first place?

Karen Weintraub:

For really the first time ever, these drugs are effective at helping people lose weight. So studies have shown people can lose 15 to 20% of their weight depending on the drug and depending on their own biology. Not everybody's going to lose that much, but they're quite effective.

Taylor Wilson:

So then what are the medical challenges of these drugs?

Karen Weintraub:

As far as I can tell, the main challenge isthat it's hard to stay on them, both for financial and physical reasons. Some people feel nauseous. It's sort of a feature, not a bug, that in order to stop eating, it makes you feel kind of gross and so you don't eat as much. Not everybody is as bothered by that, but some people really can't tolerate it. Not every drug works for everybody, so they won't work for everyone. And then the cost is quite expensive right now. Wegovy runs about $1,300 a month and most insurance will not cover that. And so I've talked to several people who are private paying. I've seen articles about people going to Mexico or Canada, but realistically, are you going to keep doing that every month for the rest of your life? $900, $600 a month? And it's what happens afterwards that is the question.

There's no question that people will regain the weight once they go off the drugs. There is a question whether long-term, if they stay on the drugs, they'll keep losing weight or they'll maintain the weight. There's almost no long-term data beyond about a year and a half. And so it's not clear what will happen to people in terms of their weight over the long term.

Taylor Wilson:

Karen, you wrote that there can also be psychological challenges associated with these drugs. What are we talking about here?

Karen Weintraub:

Yeah, so eating disorder folks are very concerned what's going to happen to people if they do lose weight, if they don't lose weight, if they obsess over their weight. The concern is if people lose weight on these drugs, go off the drugs and gain it back, that that could really carry a psychological toll for people. Also, several eating disorder specialists said to me, if somebody came to them and said, "I feel nauseous all the time, I can't eat and I'm really happy that I can't eat," they would say, "Oh, you have an eating disorder." So these drugs in a sense mimic, at least to some degree, an eating disorder. So there's concern that it could cause some psychological distress and also all the attention. Suddenly this problem that you thought was intractable, now people are telling you, you can fix it, you can lose weight. And with all that attention, how are people going to respond to that?

Taylor Wilson:

Yeah, absolutely. So there have been reports of shortages associated with these drugs for people who might really need them. What are you hearing about this?

Karen Weintraub:

Novo Nordisk, which makes Ozempic and Wegovy, has told me that they have almost all doses of their drugs available and should have all of them by the end of the month. They have been saying that for several months, so I can't promise, but they say that the days of shortages are largely over. Again, so Wegovy is for weight loss specifically, while Ozempic, which is generally in lower doses is for people with diabetes. There's no question that these drugs can be effective for diabetes. The real issue here is whether people who are overweight, obese, but don't have health issues should be taking these drugs, what it can do for them.

Taylor Wilson:

Karen Weintraub always with some great info for us. Thanks so much.

Karen Weintraub:

Thank you.

Taylor Wilson:

The death toll has risen to 32 after devastating tornadoes continue to swirl in central parts of the US. 15 deaths have been recorded in Tennessee, with most in and around Memphis, and five deaths each were reported in Arkansas and Indiana. Nearly 200,000 homes were also still without power yesterday.

Elsewhere, five people remain in critical condition after a roof collapsed at a theater in Belvedere, Illinois, killing at least one person. And deadly weather isn't just hitting the south and Midwest. At least one death was reported in Delaware and suspected tornadoes touched down as far north as New Jersey.

Student loan debt is burying Americans across the country, and that's particularly true for women. USA TODAY Education Reporter Alia Wong explains. Hi Alia.

Alia Wong:

Hello. Thanks for having me.

Taylor Wilson:

Thanks for coming back on the podcast. You report that women owe most of the country's student loan debt. What do the numbers say here?

Alia Wong:

Women actually account for nearly two thirds of the country's $1.7 trillion in student loan debt. That is a staggering amount. They also take an average of two years longer to pay off their loans. By the time they graduate, they already have thousands more in debt than men on average.

Taylor Wilson:

And why do women have more student loan debt than men?

Alia Wong:

Well, one simple reason is that there are more women going to college. The core reasons and the most insidious reasons have been once they graduate, they face a workforce that tends to pay men more for similar jobs. The gender wage gap really contributes to women's inability to both pay off their debt, but also prompts them to return to school to go back and level up and advance their higher education.

Taylor Wilson:

And what kind of disparities do we see with women of color?

Alia Wong:

The average cost of attending a college has nearly tripled since 1980. And the Pell Grant and other forms of financial aid have not kept pace with that. Neither has state funding. So basically state funding for colleges has really declined. All that means, some students who just don't naturally or don't readily have the ability to pay for college, will have to take out loans. And that tends to be a burden suffered mostly by people of color, and in particular, women of color who are far more likely to attend college than their male counterparts. One particularly staggering disparity from some of the research is that for a woman of color to make as much as a white man without a college degree, she needs to have a bachelor's degree or higher.

Taylor Wilson:

You touched on this a little bit, but folks obviously take on this debt for a reason. It's to get better jobs, to get higher salaries. Did you find in your reporting and in these numbers that more debt typically means a higher salary?

Alia Wong:

More debt does not necessarily mean a higher salary, and that tension is particularly evident among women of color. Women of color go back to school to increase their credentials, yet they're not necessarily getting higher salaries. However, when I talk with students, particularly female students of color, they are quick to say that they never for once have questioned or doubted theirhigher education pursuits. At the end of the day, they still feel like the economic mobility that these degrees have provided them wouldn't have occurred had they not attended college. So really this isn't a story about the worth of college degree for women and women of color. It's a story about how do we bring down the cost of college for these populations to ensure it is indeed the path to the middle class that it has, or at least at one point was purported to be.

Taylor Wilson:

Alia Wong covers education for USA TODAY. Thanks so much.

Alia Wong:

Thank you.

Taylor Wilson:

LSU are national champions. The three seed Tigers won the Women's College Basketball Championship yesterday, defeating the two seed University of IowaHawkeyes 102 to 85. They were led by transfer bench player Jasmine Carson, who scored 22 points in just 22 minutes as players on both teams found themselves in foul trouble. That included Iowa Star Caitlin Clark, who despite that, still led the game with 30 points. LSU's 102 points were the most ever in a women's national title game. The championship was the school's first ever in basketball and its head coach Kim Mulkey's fourth after winning her previous championships at Baylor. Tonight, it's the men's turn to crown a champion as San Diego State takes on Connecticut. It's San Diego State's first appearance ever in the national championship game while UConn has won it all four times, but not since 2014. You can tune in just after 9:00 PM Eastern time on CBS.

And you can find 5 Things every morning right here wherever you get your podcasts. I'm back tomorrow with more of 5 Things from USA TODAY.

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Courtesy of Lily of the Valley

It was when the chocolate mousse with extra chocolate arrived that I realized this was a diet plan I could stick to.

Upon inquiry, I discovered the decadent dessert was actually a cacao-and-avocado-based foam, but it looked and tasted just like the real thing. The confectionary doppelgnger is typical of the signature High-Speed Weight Loss program at the Lily of the Valley wellness resort on Frances Cte dAzur in that it plays with guests assumptionsin this case, a low-cal, nutrition-infused morsel masquerading as a lavish gastronomic experience.

The resort, near Saint-Tropez, is open year-round, unusual in the strictly seasonal Riviera. I traveled there from the UK in the late fall, hoping to catch a few final Mediterranean rays before the long gray winter set in. After Id spent two Covid-restricted holiday seasons dealing with lockdowns, masks, and cancellations, the getaway felt like both an indulgence and a necessitya much overdue chance to revitalize. Lily of the Valley caters to this exact post-pandemic mood.

When I arrived, I was informed by Stephane Personeni, the general manager, that every participant in le programme is restricted to 1,000 calories a day. Not that youd notice. Pre-foam, the dinner rations on day one consisted of a delicious sea bass ceviche and a crispy chickpea galette with roasted vegetables, accompanied by a large glass of Bordeaux, to reward you for your efforts during the day, in the soothing words of the program brochure. As the meaning of the term diet began to disintegrate in my mind, a rosemary-scented leg of lamb wafted past my nose, destined for one of the well-heeled French couples (white jeans, neutral cashmere, small dogs), who murmured to each other amid the palm fronds in the Philippe Starckdesigned Vista restaurant. This fragrant offering was, it turned out, off-program: available only to those who reject the path of High-Speed Weight Loss and instead follow the way of La Carte.

Around 30 to 40 percent of Lily of the Valleys guests come to slim down, while the rest are simply enjoying a guilt-free vacation at an indulgent hotel with a luxuriantly modern aesthetic and postcard-perfect views of the Mediterranean.

The wellness experience at Lily of the Valley, which includes an extensive fitness program, is multilayered and occasionally paradoxical: Its a restrictive regime that disdains deprivation; a luxury resort that asks you to resist temptation; a weight-loss program that encourages treats. Its the very opposite of austere German fasting clinics that achieve results by removing guests autonomy and agency along with every last crumb of carbohydrate. Here, perched amid Roman pines on a craggy crest of the Riviera, nothing is verboten, but you are gently nudged to make all the right decisions.

The resort, above Gigaro Beach in La Croix Valmer, is a passion project of Alain Weill, a French media-and-telecom tycoon best known as the owner of rolling-news channel BFM TV, and his daughter, Lucie. Weill, who had holidayed in the area since childhood, bought an old hotel on the site in 2016 and asked famed architect Philippe Starck to redesign it. Starck insisted on a rebuild. So we demolished it and built new, keeping the trees and gardens, says Personeni.

The momentum of the initial opening, in June 2019, was arrested by the pandemic. But when the property relaunched in May 2022, the Covid-induced mass pivot toward preventative health helped boost business, and the hotel saw an influx of French and American clients.

The resort consists of a series of honey-colored, rustic-chic buildings draped in tendrils of greenery, tumbling down a tree-lined slope to the sea. At the top, with panoramic views, is the main restaurant, Vista, while the Shape Club, 38 guest rooms, 13 suites (seven with private pools) and two villas fan off a central outdoor staircase, upon which fitness coaches drill their students in a punishing cardio workout called Crazy Stairs.

My room had an expansive Mediterranean view through its floor-to-ceiling windows, leading out to a large balcony with a daybed and seating area, cleverly separated from the neighboring balcony by a mirror, which, by reflecting the light and trees, gave an illusion of limitless space. From here each morning, after unveiling the vista by way of bedside curtain control, I watched autumnal sunrises heralded by birdsong. Guests can choose from two pools: a secluded option, by the Shape Club, and a spectacularly stylish sun trap straight out of a 1920s Riviera travel poster, just outside Vista.

Rooms start at about $598 per night. Separately, the program, which includes all meals, classes, and treatments, starts at about $2,700 per person for four days. The jewel of the resort, in the words ofAnne-Sophie Vasselin, the hotels wellness manager, is Villa W, a three-bedroom retreat tucked into the hillside below the main resort, which rents for around $15,000 a night during high season. Dating from 1955, it has been restored to its midcentury glory, furnished with original pieces, including Eames chairs, and adorned with handmade green-glass ornaments from the famous Verrerie de Biot, near Nice. Its exquisite private pool is tiled in black, red, and yellow, resembling a Mondrian painting.

The prevailing style, in both the guest rooms and the restaurant, is natural luxury, with wood and leather furniture and a fawn-and-cream color scheme punctuated by plants, sculptural lamps, and artfully arranged driftwood. The aesthetic is pleasing, though the profusion of angled mirrors in the large en suite bathrooms means you are joined by multiple reflections of yourself every time you enter. During each days numerous outfit changesyoga kit, swimsuit, bathrobe, wetsuit, smart-casual eveningwearI felt like I was trapped in a scene from French avant-garde cinema, silently interrogating my many selves: Are you really me? Am I really here? Is this really a diet? What even is consciousness? The effect was disconcerting, but perhaps all French spas are designed to provoke existential analysis.

Lily of the Valley steers clear of some of the prevailing Covid-influenced wellness trends. For example, theres not a wearable health-tech gadget to be seen, no IV drips, hyperbaric chambers or personalized genetic tests, and the pseudo-science is dialed down. The spa provides the usual range of swim, sauna, and steam, plus thetraditional French emphasis on cellulite reduction, via massage (i.e., lymphatic drainage), cryotherapy and Indiba radiofrequency treatments. That last one left me unimpressed, but the excellent massage therapist did ease the incroyable tension in my back and shoulders.

Guests can choose merely to lounge and dabble in spa treatments, or they can dive into the menu of fitness classes, including paddleboarding, yoga, e-biking, and hikes along the craggy coastline, breathing in the aroma of sun-warmed pine needles and the briny blue sea. Those participating in the program also have an hour of individual coaching each day. My favorite activity was longe-cte (aka sea wading), a joyous aqua-aerobic session in the Mediterranean led by the muscular Loc, who maintained an expression of perfect gravity as his wetsuit-clad charges splashed about like blubbery seals to his encouraging cries of Yop!

In other ways, Lily of the Valley very much represents the pandemic zeitgeist, with its focus on preventative medicine and a much younger clientele than would have been typical at a health resort pre-Covid. There is new interest in longevity, says Personeni, which used to be about clinics and medicine, peels, surgery, drugs. Today, longevity is taking care of your body so that you dont need surgery and pills. It used to be a zigzag of excess and repair; now its continuous progress. Young people, he adds, want to prevent the health problems of their parents generations.

The hotels extremely French philosophy is that regular tiny indulgences are good for the soul and, crucially, help with long-term diet maintenance. Strict deprivation, on the other hand, leads only to despair and binges. Modish fasting regimens are rejected as unsustainable outside the puritanical confines of a sanatorium.

Our gentle balance is more like real life, says Vasselin. You are not shut in a bubble, like a clinic, where you can only eat your fingernails. We are human herethats the biggest difference with other health resorts. If we do everything for you, you wont keep it up. You have to make choices yourself.

Hence the mixing of program and non-program guests at dinner: By including temptation as part of the curated wellness experience, the theory is that guests will be better prepared to resist it in real-world conditions back home (or at the resorts beach club, which serves pizza and magnums of ros).

When guests arrive for the weight-loss program (many are recuperating after Saint-Tropezs party season), they are weighed and measured, and attainable goals are agreed upon. A calorie-restriction and exercise program is devised, with detailed guidance for maintaining the regimen at home, including follow-up calls. The ambience at the resort is relaxed but with an undercurrent of seriousness. Housekeeping staff report to Personeni if they find food or wrappers in the bedroomsnot to confront people, he says, but in case they complain they havent lost weight.

Foreign guests will find the food guidance charmingly Gallic. The diet menu recommends certain types of cheese (goat, Comt), dessert, and a daily glass of wine. Breakfast includes toast, cheese, and eggs, or yogurt, cereal, and fruit. At lunches and dinners, I enjoyed grilled chicken with lemon dressing; sea bass with mushrooms; veal with sage; a stew of octopus, and chickpeas; a salad of fennel, bottarga, and tiny preserved oranges; John Dory with saffron; and a marrons glacs dessert. A certain leap of faith is required to believe that 1,000 calories are not being exceeded. The key, says Personeni, is increased protein, reduced carbs and surprisingly little fat used in cooking and sauces.

During the back-at-home maintenance phase, the programs instructions permit three daily baguette slices as well as rich meals twice a week: fried, coated in breadcrumbs, cooked in sauce and a pastry every other day, giving priority to those with less fat, such as an clair.

The aim, says Personeni, is to provide people with a recipe to change their way of life and feel no guilt when they do something wrong. Life is hardwhy not have a G&T and a burger on a Friday night? We love life. But we will help you to take care of your body [with] an individualized recipe for food, sport, treatments.

I cant say the weight fell off, but then, my stay was only two days. The greater effect is how the resorts philosophy of moderate restriction peppered with small treats and a soupon of joie de vivre has stayed with me and seems more sustainable than intermittent fasting, which, when I attempted it last year, left me hungry and obsessed with the next meal.

Back home in the quotidian, non-French world, the guidance regarding clairs and baguettes seemed somewhat irrelevant, and it wasnt immediately obvious how to keep up my longe-cte habit. But the guilt-free approach to healthy eatingthe encouragement to focus on the joy of exercise and nutritious meals, rather than viewing food as a regrettable indulgence to be repented for by clock-watching and self-denialis a Riviera souvenir I will treasure.

The rest is here:
This Luxe French Health Retreat Lets You Have Chocolate Mousse and Red Wine at Dinner - Robb Report

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This transcript has been edited for clarity. For more episodes, download the Medscape app or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast provider.

Robert F. Kushner, MD: Hi. I am Dr Robert Kushner. Welcome to Medscape's InDiscussion series on obesity. This is episode two. Today we'll be discussing the changing paradigm about obesity as a disease. First, let me introduce my guest, Dr Donna Ryan. Dr Ryan is a professor emerita at Pennington Biomedical in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA, where she oversaw clinical research for 25 years. Her research interests include lifestyle intervention and diet for weight loss. And she was the investigator for multiple National Institutes of Health studies, including POUNDS Lost, Look AHEAD, the DPP [Diabetes Prevention Program], and DASH [Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension]. She has also served as president of the Obesity Society and the World Obesity Federation. Donna and I go back multiple decades. Donna, welcome to InDiscussion.

Donna Ryan, MD: Delighted to be here, Bob. Thanks for having me.

Kushner: Donna, today we're going to be focusing on obesity as a disease. Let me set you up for this first question. It seems to me that how we think about obesity is in the eye of the beholder, meaning that everyone has a different way of looking at the problem. Is obesity a result of sloth and gluttony, which happen to be two of the seven deadly sins? Or is it really a disease that individuals are predisposed to develop due to genetics, biology, and the environment that we live in?

Ryan: Bob, Bob, Bob. It is not a sin. It is a disease. You know, it's really amazing to me how ingrained in our culture this idea is that people could easily change their body weight if only they wanted to. Individuals develop obesity because they have genetic susceptibility and are exposed to a modern environment that really promotes food intake. Not a lot of energy is required in our work and in our play. There are also other factors that drive weight gain in susceptible people, such as pregnancy. The average weight gain with each baby is 2 lb and is cumulative. Medications that we are taking for depression, diabetes, and other chronic diseases can drive weight gain. There are many, many drivers. I don't want to make it sound like it's simple. It's complicated. Obesity is a complicated disease, but it's a disease. It is not a lack of character or being morally upstanding. Individuals with obesity would love not to have obesity; they would love to be lean. But it's a disease. The real problem is that once we develop excess body fat, our bodies defend that excess abnormal body fat. Weight gain usually occurs gradually. But to try to lose weight, our bodies resist that weight loss.

Kushner: I agree completely. It is a disease. I think there are still confusing messages out there. And of course, with podcasts like this, you and I and others are trying to get the message across. Hopefully we will convey that obesity truly is a disease. Given the mixed messages, what do you think the roles are of insurance companies, regulators, healthcare professionals, and, most important, people living with obesity? What's the common message we're trying to get across in the role of all the stakeholders?

Ryan: I think the most important thing we have to do is to make sure everybody understands what obesity actually is. Our healthcare providers are not all up to speed on obesity. Obviously, there's a lot of bias within the healthcare professions. Individuals with obesity have had bad experiences in their healthcare. They've been blamed for their body weight. I think that bias and stigma that individuals with obesity face on a daily basis is something we must counter. And the way to counter it, I think, is understanding what obesity really is. I can't imagine another disease where individuals are required to try a diet before they can be eligible for medications. We don't require that with people who have cholesterol problems. Why are we doing this with people who have weight problems? Before they have a surgery, they're required to try a diet and physical activity. People with obesity have tried multiple times to lose weight. It's the body's biology that they need help with. And in terms of payments for obesity treatments, I can't imagine another disease where adequate provision of care, which can be lifesaving, is not allowed or sanctioned by our insurers, employers, and regulators.

Kushner: I can't agree with you more. We're seeing this particularly among the newer generation of medications that are not really covered adequately, not at all by Medicare, but really as part of treatment. I want to go back to the biology of disease. You brought that up in the first question. I mentioned to you that it's not just willful misconduct and so on, but it really is biology. I wonder if you could unpack that a little more, particularly about appetite dysregulation and what we call lipotoxicity.

Ryan: When we accrue excess body fat and we try to lose weight, our bodies react almost immediately with these physiologic mechanisms that defend our settling point of body fat. Our body doesn't want our fat mass to decrease; it loves it where it is. That's our settling point. And so when we start to lose weight, we get changes in the appetite signals, and we can actually measure the effect of these signals. In regard to the appetite hormones, ghrelin, the hunger hormone, the satiety hormones, CCK, GLP-1, PYY, amylin, when we start to lose weight, we get an increase in the hunger hormone and a decrease in the satiety and fullness hormones. And so we can measure the hormones and we can also measure hunger and fullness. As long as we are trying to reduce, as long as we're in this reduced state, we have greater hunger and less satisfaction and fullness. But there's something else that occurs that makes it even more difficult. When we're trying to lose weight, something kicks in, called metabolic adaptation or adaptive thermogenesis. When we start to lose weight, our metabolic rate decreases more than you would expect just by being a smaller size, and that metabolic adaptation, that lower metabolic rate, works together with increased hunger to drive weight regain. That is why it is so difficult to lose weight.

Lipotoxicity, Bob, is something else. When we exceed our ability to store excess calories in healthy fat, that's usually fat around the hips and thighs. We start storing those extra calories in abnormal body fat stores fat stores within the abdomen, we call that visceral adipose tissue; fat around the heart, that's pericardial adipose tissue; around blood vessels, that's perivascular; around kidneys, in the liver, in the muscle, and in the pancreas. And this adipose tissue is bad. It looks different under the microscope. The fat cells are big. There's evidence that they're not healthy. We see evidence of their cell death and dying helmet cells. There are a lot more white blood cells in there, indicating inflammation, and that fat tissue is producing lots of bad actors. It is producing hormones adipokines and cytokines that promote thrombosis, inflammation, and insulin resistance. We get into trouble not just where that fat is. The coronary arteries are running straight through the epicardial adipose tissue, and those products of that abnormal adipose tissue drive atherosclerosis. They also affect the heart muscle itself. So, it's a direct effect of where the adipose tissue is located. There also are systemic effects all around the body. There is a prothrombotic and proinflammatory milieu that people with obesity are living in. Lipotoxicity means that fat is an active endocrine organ. And when we store fat in these ectopic spots, it's something that really produces all of the complications of obesity.

Kushner: That's a good description of the biology and pathophysiology of obesity. It sounds like we know a lot more than we did two decades ago, for example. We have a lot of folks who are living with obesity in this country. Can we identify those individuals who have this underlying biology that you just described and who are predisposed to developing obesity and its complications?

Ryan: I know you'd like me to tell you, "Oh, yeah, we've got a blood test. We've got a genetic risk score that can identify." Bob, 70% of the US population has a BMI over 30. We've got lots of individuals who have a lot of excess abnormal body fat. And the way we start off identifying people at risk is with BMI. It's a good screener. It's the body mass index. You calculate it from your height and your weight, and it tells you a lot about what your body size is. It doesn't tell you anything about where body fat is or how unhealthy body fat is. And so that's why BMI is just a screener. The next thing we do is look at waist circumference, a very important measurement, especially in people with a BMI of 25 up to about 35. That waist circumference really gives us an idea of ectopic fat storage. We also want to know what the metabolic risk factors look like. What is the C-reactive protein, what is the blood pressure, what is the blood glucose, the A1c? What's happening to the lipids? We get signals from those risk factors that help identify a metabolic syndrome that is, individuals who are at increased risk for diabetes and heart disease by virtue of having lipotoxicity.

Kushner: You mentioned about how many Americans, adults particularly, have obesity. It's over 42% by BMI; if you had overweight, probably 3 out of 4. So let me ask you kind of a provocative question: Are we saying that 42% of Americans have a disease of obesity? Let's say you have an actor who puts on 30 lb for a role. Does that person have obesity, and when they lose weight, they no longer have obesity as a disease? Do we understand enough about that?

Ryan: First of all, many of those individuals do have obesity, the disease. And there are some people who do have a BMI of 30 or higher who don't have evidence of abnormal risk factors. These are metabolically healthy individuals with that high BMI. What we usually find with these individuals is that over time, over the lifespan, they tend to develop metabolic complications. We worry about those individuals and we follow them closely. The way we really diagnose obesity as a disease is a clinical diagnosis. It's the demonstration that an individual has excess abnormal body fat by virtue of dysmetabolic syndrome.

Kushner: By the WHO definition, as you're alluding to, it's excess body fat that impairs health and quality of life. But, Donna, as an individual goes to see their primary care professional, it's pretty uncommon that they have a body fat measure, yet it's a disease of excess body fat. Do we just assume that the excess weight is body fat, or should we be measuring body fat, since you delineated so well that the target pathology is a sick fat?

Ryan: I wish we had an easy, safe, inexpensive, and quick measure of body fat; we would use that for the diagnosis of obesity. Right now, our best and most accurate measure of body fat is DEXA, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. But Bob, that exposes people to a tiny bit of x-ray, and we don't want to use that as a screening tool. I think we're going to get a little closer in the next few years with digital anthropometry that is, measuring circumferences around the waist, hips, arms, and neck with just a digital photograph. And then, if we know the weight and we have those measurements, we can calculate a pretty good body fat. It's been compared to DEXA measurements and it's good, very good. I think we're likely to move in that direction in the future. We're not quite there yet in the clinic.

Kushner: Okay. Stay tuned on that one. Donna, I want to have you quickly return to the challenges that individuals living with obesity have in maintaining weight loss. Earlier you described metabolic adaptation and change in the gut hormones. Should that be treated biologically being that why the weight is being regained seems to be a biological problem? Should we be focusing individuals to turn to biologic treatments, which I guess is pharmacotherapy?

Ryan: Yes, it is pharmacotherapy. But you know, Bob, a lot of the things that we do in our lives, all our interventions, are intended to work through biology. For example, when we're teaching people how to develop skills to help them lose and maintain weight, we do things like having them self-monitor. Being aware of your body weight, your food intake, being mindful about food, recognizing the body's signals of fullness and not just eating automatically those are all things that we're doing that work through biology. Think about it: Some of the things we teach in our lifestyle intervention, like eating slowly to give those appetite signals time to come into play, help reinforce so that we can stop eating sooner. We don't have to eat everything on the plate, gulping it down. If we eat more slowly, we're more likely to eat less. We're already doing those things. What we think goes on with those medications that work through appetite is that they help reset that settling point so that when we take our medications, we will lose weight and will reach a new level that, as long as we keep on the medications, will be maintained. With our older medications, that's usually on average about 5%-10% weight loss. Our newer medications are coming out with more weight loss 10%, 15%, even up to 20% weight loss. And so what's happening there is that the impact on those appetite signals is making it easier for patients to follow their dietary intentions.

Kushner: Good advice and good insight on how to deal with weight regain. Donna, I mentioned when I introduced you that you're the past president of the World Obesity Federation. You had a global approach, unique among many of us. What have you learned about the global problem of obesity either similarities or differences between the US and other countries?

Ryan: Obesity is really a global pandemic. It is increasing everywhere. The G20 countries are those that have higher socioeconomic status. And those countries are the ones that are having the highest rates of obesity. We seem to have done a really good job of exporting this Western lifestyle around the world and, along with it, our obesity rates. It was really interesting to identify that the highest rates of obesity in the world are in the Pacific Islands. But we also have enormous problems with obesity in the Middle East and in Mexico. Everywhere in the world, especially as countries begin to emerge economically, we're really identifying increased rates of obesity. One of the most interesting things is that although the cultures of these countries are different across the world, we do observe that same obesity stigma across all of those countries. We seem to have exported our value of slimness around the world too.

Kushner: What should we as a society, we as providers, and all the other stakeholders be thinking about regarding obesity as a disease?

Ryan: I think it's so important that we help our patients understand what they're dealing with. All patients seem to own their disease. They feel responsible for their body weight. They think it's their problem. It's important that healthcare providers get into the swing of things; it's our job to help patients understand the biology that makes it hard for patients to lose weight and keep it off. Some patients think taking medications is cheating. They think, Oh, I just need to try harder. No. Medications work through biology to help you follow your intentions. Our goal really is to move patients toward healthier lifestyles, right? Well, medications can help patients do that. And, Bob, for some people with severe obesity, we need to be more proactive about helping get those patients to surgical evaluation, because that is currently our best and most long-acting weight loss approach.

Kushner: Today we've had Dr Donna Ryan discussing the changing paradigm about obesity as a disease. Donna, thank you. This has been wonderful. Thanks for sharing all your insights about obesity.

Ryan: I love being here. Thank you.

Kushner: I want to thank all of you for joining us for episode two. I look forward to another great discussion in episode three. This is Dr Robert Kushner for InDiscussion.

Comparison of Weight-Loss Diets With Different Compositions of Fat, Protein, and Carbohydrates

Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes): Design and Methods for a Clinical Trial of Weight Loss for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes

First versus Repeat Treatment With a Lifestyle Intervention Program: Attendance and Weight Loss Outcomes

Effects of Dietary Patterns on Blood Pressure: Subgroup Analysis of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Randomized Clinical Trial

The Role of Gut Hormones in Diet-Induced Weight Change: A Systematic Review

Adult Obesity Facts

Obesity Emergence in the Pacific Islands: Why Understanding Colonial History and Social Change Is Important

The Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in an Adult Kuwaiti Population in 2014

Obesity in Mexico, Prevalence and Trends in Adults. Ensanut 2018-19.

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Consider the expert-approved tips for weight loss without exercise below, and remember to consult your medical provider before making any diet and lifestyle changes to make sure you use methods that best suit your health needs.

Though calorie restriction is a known method for losing weight, weight loss isnt solely about being in a calorie deficit. Eating nutrient-dense, whole foods and making sure your body has the nutrition it needs is an important component of weight loss and overall health.

The food we eat directly correlates with our body composition and weight, says Jessica Domi, a certified personal trainer and director of operations at Fredericksburg Fitness Studio in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Whole foods contain vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients that provide the body with the energy necessary to perform daily activities. Whats more, these foods tend to be more filling than processed food options and can help keep you satisfied for longer.

Foods with a high nutrient density are more likely to improve a persons overall quality of life, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote healthy body weight, according to 2015 research in Nutrients.

Examples of nutrient-dense foods include:

Protein helps the body build muscle, increase insulin sensitivity (which can contribute to fat loss) and help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Research suggests high-protein diets not only aid in weight loss, but also help maintain long-term weight loss.

Most of us eat enough total protein, but we dont spread it [out] properly throughout the day to support muscle growth and repair, says Lauren Harris-Pincus, a registered dietician, author and owner of Nutrition Starring YOU, a weight management and nutritional counseling practice. For optimal protein intake, Harris-Pincus recommends aiming to consume 20 to 30 grams of protein with each meal and 10 to 15 grams of protein with each snack.

High-protein snacks include:

Fiber offers many benefits, including aiding in digestion, managing cholesterol and stabilizing glucose levels. It can also increase feelings of fullness by slowing down the digestion process.

Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains are nutrient dense and provide significant vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals for the number of calories consumed, says Harris-Pincus. Whats more, adding these high-fiber foods to your diet can help you meet your daily fiber needs while contributing to weight loss, she adds.

Women ages 19 to 50 should aim to consume 25 grams of fiber per day, according to the United States Institute of Medicine. Men ages 19 to 50 should consume at least 38 grams of fiber daily.

Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of and intentional with your thoughts and actions. Mindful eating specifically focuses on bringing mindfulness to your experience with food, as well as your emotions, thoughts, physical sensations and behaviors related to eating. While more research is needed, mindful eating may help foster a healthier relationship with food and help you feel more in tune with your bodys needs.

Dr. Rodriguez Ruiz recommends mindful eating to help keep portion sizes in check. Eating slowly and listening to your bodys cues can help with portion control, as it prevents you from overeating or feeling overly full after meals, she says. A good tip is to use smaller plates and bowls to help you stay mindful of your portion sizes.

Water helps regulate body temperature, lower blood pressure, carry nutrients and oxygen to various cells, and maintain optimal kidney function. Replacing sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages with water can help reduce your daily calorie intake and may help lead to reduced weight gain over time.

Harris-Pincus adds that water can also help you feel full and notes that research shows drinking two cups of water before a meal can help you feel fuller and reduce your overall food intake, which can lead to weight loss over time.

The National Health Service recommends drinking six to eight glasses of fluid daily. If plain water isnt appealing, try adding fruit slices or herbs like mint and rosemary for extra flavor and nutrients.

Research suggests both a behavioral and physiological link between stress and weight gain. When under pressure, the body releases cortisola hormone linked to increased appetite and fat storage. Excess cortisol levels can increase appetite and cravings for energy-dense, comfort foods. High cortisol levels over time have also been linked to abdominal fat gain.

Stress can be a big contributor to weight gain, as it often leads to overeating or emotional eating, says Dr. Rodriguez Ruiz. Finding effective ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing, yoga or even a relaxing bath can help you stay on track with your weight loss goals.

Your body relies on sleep to restore and repair itself, and getting enough rest can also benefit your weight loss efforts. One 2021 study in the International Journal of Obesity suggests people who get better quality sleep tend to also benefit from greater weight and fat loss than those who have poor sleep. Research also finds lack of sleep can contribute to an increase in stress hormones (like cortisol), which can further inhibit weight loss.

For maximum benefits, the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recommends adults ages 26 to 64 aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. The NSF also encourages incorporating healthy sleep habits into your routine, such as avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed, establishing an evening wind-down routine and keeping your bedroom dark and cool for optimal rest. Going to bed and waking at the same time each day can also help regulate your bodys internal clock for better sleep quality.

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Wegovy vs. Ozempic? Should you consider new diabetes drugs for weight loss or skip medications and stay fit? Photo: Getty Images.

If youre interested in losing weight, perhaps your ears perked up when Jimmy Kimmel cracked a joke during his opening monologue at this years Academy Awards.

Everybody looks so great, Kimmel said. When I look around this room, I cant help but wonder Is Ozempic right for me?

Or maybe you took note when Elon Musk tweeted about Wegovy as his magical weight loss method.

What are Ozempic and Wegovy, and if theyre working so well for Hollywood stars and social media influencers, should I think about trying these weight loss drugs?

Before you race to your doctor to get a prescription, its vital to consider the fine print for the medications.

While there are reasons to be cautious about the newest drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy are helping many people lose considerable weight about 12% of body mass, on average which can dramatically improve a persons health.

And for decades, leading medical experts blamed people who were overweight or obese for the extra pounds they were carrying without giving them much help or considering the physiological causes for weight gain. Some blamed obesity on simple math: Overweight people simply needed to eat less and move more.

While sedentary lifestyles and consumption of high-calorie, processed foods most certainly have boosted obesity rates in the U.S. and around the world, experts have learned much more in recent years about genetic causes for weight gain. Some peoples bodies may, in fact, want them to pack on fat. So, drugs that dramatically reduce appetite and help people lose significant pounds, may be a game changer.

To get answers to your questions, we consulted with Dr. Cecilia Low Wang, a UCHealth expert in endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism.

Low Wang is also a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine on the Anschutz Medical Campus. And she chairs the committee that advises the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on drugs related to endocrinology and metabolism.

The FDA approved Wegovy in June of 2021, marking the first time since 2014 that federal health authorities had given the green light to a new weight loss drug.

(Low Wongs views do not represent those of the FDA or the FDA EndocrinFologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee.)

Its correct that Wegovy and Ozempic are two names for the same drug: semaglutide. Ozempic is the name of the drug as prescribed for people with diabetes. The FDA approved Ozempic for people with diabetes in 2017 and approved Wegovy for people who have obesity or are overweight and have additional health problems in 2021.

They are just prescribed under different names with slightly different doses and different indications, Low Wang said. The drug product itself is the same.

The drugs decrease appetite and slow down emptying of the stomach so people feel less hungry and eat less. They can cause some unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects.

Under the FDA authorization, Wegovy is supposed to be used for people who are obese or overweight. Those who have a body mass index (or BMI) of 30 or greater are eligible along with those who have a BMI of 27 or greater who also have other health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol that make weight loss important.

In reality, some people who do not have obesity or weight-related health conditions have been saying that theyre using Wegovy or Ozempic to drop 10 pounds and get skinny.

Yes. The FDA has approved Wegovy for some children and teens ages 12 and older who are dealing with obesity.

FDA officials approved Ozempic for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Wegovy and Ozempic mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite, according to the FDA authorization.

In the U.S., about 70% of adults are obese or overweight, and many have serious health problems that put them at greater risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some types of cancer.

Losing 5% to 10% of body weight through diet and exercise has been associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in adults, Dr. John Sharretts of the FDAs Center for Drug Evaluation and Research said when the FDA approved Wegovy.

Gastrointestinal problems are the most common side effects since Wegovy can slow down peoples digestive systems. During clinical trials, some participants experienced nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, indigestion, dizziness, bloating and gas.

In Low Wangs opinion, yes, it was wise for the FDA to authorize Wegovy for people who truly need to lose weight.

Along with persuasive data about weight loss, Low Wang said there is evidence that people with Type 2 diabetes who take Ozempic can improve their cardiovascular health.

A 5-to-7% weight loss, for example, can significantly lower blood pressure, Low Wang said.

Cardiovascular risk factors improve in people with obesity or overweight who take Wegovy, but evidence for cardiovascular risk will have to wait until later in 2023 when the SELECT trial is completed. (Learn more about the clinical trial.)

Yes. As with many chronic conditions, most people who use the drugs for diabetes or weight loss will need to keep taking them to keep benefiting from them.

Sometimes people can decrease or eliminate the need for chronic medications through significant lifestyle changes, Low Wang said.

Of course, that takes work and commitment.

Depending on your individual situation, and without sustained lifestyle changes, it is likely you would need to be on these medications indefinitely to maintain weight loss, Low Wang said.

Using Ozempic or Wegovy without insurance coverage can cost more than $15,000 a year.

Thats causing some challenges for doctors and patients.

So far, many of the people who are publicly discussing using the medications are wealthy individuals for whom cost is not a problem.

And my sense is that many people posting on social media are using these drugs but dont meet the medical criteria for using them, Low Wang said.

The cost really affects access. Thats a huge issue related to health equity, she said.

Here are the criteria for use of Wegovy (meaning its meant for you, and health insurance plans might pay for the prescription).

If your body mass index, or BMI, is 30 or above, then you are eligible. If your BMI is 27 or higher and you have additional health risks, then youre eligible to get a prescription for Wegovy, Low Wang said.

If you dont meet those criteria, Low Wang said you would be using the medications off-label, or not as the FDA has approved them. This is OK if your health care provider feels the drug is necessary for you, but not if Wegovy is being prescribed by someone who is not one of your providers.

She said insurance plans do tend to cover these drugs for people with Type 2 diabetes.

Yes. Its true that the medications come as injectables, although there is one pill form. (See more information about that below.)

Wegovy and Ozempic are injected once a week, Low Wang said. So that can be a challenge for anyone who is absolutely against all injections. But because you only need to do the injection once a week, I think its doable for many people.

There is a tablet form of semaglutide. Its called Rybelsus and is for people with Type 2 diabetes. Patients need to take one tablet every day.

People who have uncontrolled diabetes can get retinopathy, a complication that involves damage to blood vessels in the eyes, and can result in vision loss or blindness.

During the clinical trials for Ozempic, a small percentage of study volunteers developed new or worsening retinopathy.

There was an almost three-fold increase in the rate of people getting retinopathy when they were placed on Ozempic (semaglutide) as compared to those who were not receiving Ozempic, Low Wang said. This was the relative risk, not absolute risk, but it is still concerning. However, it occurred in a small percentage of people.

People who have retinopathy should talk with their health care providers before starting Ozempic or Wegovy. And patients also should have a thorough eye exam and regular follow-up eye exams.

People may be at increased risk for pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas often caused by gall stones, alcohol use or high triglycerides.

We generally do not use this class of medicines if someone has a history of pancreatitis, Low Wang said.

If you have a history of MEN2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia 2) or medullary thyroid cancer, you should not take Ozempic or Wegovy.

As with any drug, you always have to weigh the benefits and risks, Low Wang said. Even though this can be an amazing drug for many people, each person is unique and you need to make an informed decision.

We know that if you start out with very uncontrolled diabetes and you have underlying retinopathy, if you lower the A1C (estimated blood sugar levels) too quickly, you have a higher risk of worsening retinopathy, Low Wang said.

Thats one reason that its really important to discuss weight loss drugs with your primary care provider and specialists who focus on both eye care and common conditions like diabetes so you can make good decisions.

Many people skip annual eye exams and some who are at risk of kidney disease like those with diabetes and high blood pressure dont get essential blood and urine tests. Having a full health picture is vital for safe use of weight loss drugs.

Yes, these are potentially awesome medications that can lead to dramatic weight loss, but people need to be committed to following up with their ophthalmologist (eye doctor) regularly, Low Wang said.

No, they dont need to be tapered before stopping, Low Wang said.

You can always choose to stop the medications, but its important to know that you will have a very high risk of regaining lost weight and worsening diabetes control, she said. These medications are like others. Whatever you were treating is likely to recur.

Yes. Low Wang said the medical community has learned a great deal in recent years about genetic causes for obesity.

As with many medical conditions, especially chronic conditions, theres a genetic component and an environmental component. In the past, many people mistakenly thought that weight gain was all environmental, and its not, Low Wang said.

What were trying to do now is to address the end goal: decreased weight that can lead to better health, she said.

Were acknowledging the physiology that is dysregulated and contributes to excess weight for people with obesity or who are overweight. And the newer weight loss medications are able to address this.

Finding the exact genetic causes for weight gain has proven to be challenging, Low Wang said.

For most people, its not a single-gene disorder. There are multiple genes that affect appetite, hunger, fullness and metabolism, Low Wang said.

In addition, individuals have different microbiomes and different metabolic set points, all of which affect weight and weight gain. Furthermore, researchers dont yet fully understand the connection between the brain and the gut.

Its extremely complex. Were learning a lot, but there is a lot more to learn, and the causes for obesity are definitely multifactorial, including social determinants of health and the built environment, Low Wang said.

I do, Low Wang said. Shed like to see insurance coverage that fosters long-term good health for patients.

These drugs could prevent health problems down the line, she said.

For example, if a person with diabetes reduces their weight by 15% or so, that can be enough to cause diabetes remission. Thats huge because we know that Type 2 diabetes is associated with increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, Low Wang said.

Reduced weight can also help with lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels and a reduction in fatty liver disease.

Right now, fatty liver is the leading cause of cirrhosis, Low Wang said.

Many people mistakenly think alcohol consumption is the leading case of cirrhosis. In fact, fatty liver disease is a bigger driver of cirrhosis.

And weight loss treats that, Low Wang said.

Yes, there are other medications called Jardiance, Farxiga, and Invokana that are used to treat diabetes, but can also cause weight loss. They are what are known as SGLT2 inhibitors.

Patients who qualify also can consider bariatric surgery.

Or if people dont want to take drugs indefinitely, there are other options.

We have non-medication weight loss strategies. The specialists at the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center are terrific and can discuss other options with you, Low Wang said.

To minimize gastrointestinal side effects, Low Wang said patients need to start with the lowest level dose and stay on that dose for about four weeks before moving to a higher dose.

That minimizes side effects like nausea, bloating, diarrhea and overall gastrointestinal upset, Low Wang said.

Dose titration means that a person starts with a less powerful dose, then builds up to the goal dose, which is a higher dose.

Yes. Low Wang said its common for patients to stop taking the medications because they dont like the adverse effects.

About one in five people might stop because they are experiencing bad side effects, she said.

I encourage some patients to stay at the lower dose level for a longer period of time to see if they can tolerate it better and still get some benefit from the medication. Or if they dont tolerate this medication, we might try a different one, Low Wang said.

Low Wang said shes not hearing that concern from her patients. But she understands why some people could feel that way.

Its probably because of the degree of weight loss. It can be pretty quick and dramatic, she said.

Most people are pleased. Some arent used to the decreased appetite. But of those who are able to tolerate the medications, most have been happy with the effects, Low Wang said.

See your health care provider. Be aware of the side effects. And the costs may be an issue. Its not just for one year. The cost is a long term issue unless insurance plans start covering these medications for everyone who needs them, Low Wang said.

She is eager to help her patients with diabetes learn about ways to manage the condition and consider the new medications if appropriate.

It doesnt have to be Ozempic, but this class of diabetes medications controls your blood sugar and causes weight loss without putting people at risk for hypoglycemia, Low Wang said. That affects quality of life. Repeated hypoglycemia puts people at risk for car crashes and falls.

Many of the medications in this class also prevent heart attacks and strokes, Low Wang said.

For people with diabetes, the medications make a lot of sense.

For people who are healthy but want to lose weight, Low Wang would not recommend Wegovy.

Its not even worth discussing because its not indicated, she said.

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Wegovy vs. Ozempic: The truth about new 'weight-loss' drugs - UCHealth Today

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While weight-loss surgery has proven to be an effective long-term health treatment, it can also be expensive, can come with a host of unpleasant side effects, is invasive, and around a third of recipients will require follow-up surgery or hospitalization within five years. Its no surprise, then, that only about 1% of those who have qualifying weight concerns actually go through with it.

A new study has highlighted the metabolic benefits of weight loss surgery, in particular its impact on bile acid levels and the role this plays in appetite regulation. The researchers found that those who had undergone weight loss surgery had much lower levels of the bile acid isoursodeoxycholate (isoUDCA), which is linked to higher appetite and worse metabolic levels.

Studying the bile acid levels of a group of post-surgery patients in Amsterdam, as well as two other non-surgery general populations, the researchers found that a fiber supplement naturally lowered isoUDCA levels. This opens the door to developing a treatment that could mimic the appetite reduction and better metabolic function to help people lose weight without any invasive procedures.

By better understanding the complex interplay between genetics, the gut microbiome, and diet in regulating bile acid levels and their impact on appetite and metabolic health, we may be able to develop new strategies for preventing and treating obesity and metabolic syndrome, said joint lead author Cristina Menni from Kings College London.

Its not the first time scientists have turned to the gut microbiome for weight-loss answers, but the researchers from the University of Nottingham, Kings College London and Amsterdam University Medical Center have shed new light on a poorly understood benefit of bariatric surgery the reduced appetite.

Understanding the metabolic mechanisms that result in a lower appetite could lead to a safe and effective treatment for weight loss. Obesity is associated with serious conditions including diabetes and heart disease, with many able to be reduced or even reversed with weight loss.

What our study shows is that specific microbial metabolite is involved in some of these benefits and that, although to a more modest extent, dietary fiber might mimic some of these effects, said joint lead author Ana Valdes, from the University of Nottinghams School of Medicine. "This could help design dietary supplementation studies aimed at increasing satiety and improving liver parameters.

The research underlines how big a role our gut microbes have in influencing metabolism and in regulating levels of isoUDCA.

This study highlights the key role that fiber plays in appetite regulation and metabolism, harnessed by specific gut microbes, said co-author Tim Spector, Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at Kings College London. The gut microbiome and its chemical products such as these bile acids hold huge promise for reducing obesity without the need for invasive surgery.

The research was published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine.

Source: University of Nottingham

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New weight-loss finding could reduce appetite without surgery - New Atlas

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When it comes to weight loss, the struggle is real. There are countless pills and supplements on the market, all claiming to be the magic solution to dropping those stubborn pounds.But fear not, as weve got you covered.

Well be exploring the most popular weight loss pills, and investigating their potential benefits and side effects, as well as any precautions that need to be taken for certain groups. We will also talk about the ingredients used to make these supplements.

One key ingredient that youll see in many weight loss pills is caffeine. While it may seem like a no-brainer, caffeine has been shown to boost metabolism and suppress appetite, making it an effective ingredient for weight loss.

In this article, well be taking a deep dive into the world of weight loss pills, highlighting the top contenders that have been scientifically proven and given the stamp of approval by satisfied customers.

#1. PhenQ: Overall Best Weight Loss Pills That Help Burn Fat Fast

PhenQ has made a remarkable impact in the fitness industry as a potent weight loss supplement. Its an exceptional blend of natural ingredients that have been designed to aid individuals in reaching their desired body goals and shedding weight.

What distinguishes PhenQ from other weight loss supplements is its comprehensive approach. In addition to burning fat, it also suppresses appetite, enhances energy levels, and uplifts mood. This multi-functional approach helps individuals not only lose weight but also improve their overall well-being.

With PhenQ, you can finally say goodbye to those pesky cravings that have been sabotaging your weight loss journey. You will feel more in control of your food choices, and you will be able to stick to a healthy diet without feeling like you are depriving yourself.

PhenQ is also safe and easy to use. It is made from natural ingredients, which means that you dont have to worry about any harmful side effects. Plus, it comes in an easy-to-swallow pill form, so you dont have to worry about any messy powders or complicated routines.

How Does PhenQ Work?

PhenQ works by utilizing a unique blend of natural ingredients to target multiple aspects of weight loss. It helps to increase metabolism, suppresses appetite, and inhibits fat production, resulting in effective weight loss. Additionally, it provides a boost of energy to support a healthy lifestyle.

Ingredients:

PhenQ is a natural weight loss supplement that combines a variety of powerful ingredients to help users achieve their weight loss goals. One of the primary ingredients in PhenQ is Capsimax powder, which is a blend of capsicum, piperine, caffeine, and niacin.

Capsicum and piperine work together to increase thermogenesis, which boosts metabolism and helps the body burn more fat. Meanwhile, caffeine and niacin help to improve energy levels and promote overall well-being.

Another key ingredient in PhenQ is chromium picolinate. This mineral is known to help regulate blood sugar levels, which can help reduce cravings for carbohydrates and sugar.

PhenQ also contains nopal which provides several weight loss benefits. This cactus extract is high in fiber, which helps to suppress appetite and reduce food cravings.

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You can consider checking the PhenQ Review article to know more about this brand.

#2. Phen24: Top Rated Weight Loss Supplements To Boost Metabolism

Phen24 is a weight loss supplement that has been making waves in the market for its unique 24-hour formula. These diet pills support weight loss efforts by boosting metabolism, and suppressing appetite.

It is one of the most effective weight loss products available in the market today and has helped countless individuals achieve their desired body goals.

The 24-hour formula of Phen24 is what sets it apart from other weight loss supplements. It is specially designed to work round the clock to help you achieve your weight loss goals.

The daytime pills help to increase metabolism, provide energy, and curb appetite, while the nighttime pills work to reduce evening cravings, promote better sleep, and support nighttime metabolism.

Phen24 is manufactured in FDA-approved facilities, meaning it is a safe and reliable product. It is also made from high-quality ingredients that are carefully chosen for their weight loss properties.

Phen24 works by using a two-pill system, with one pill for the day and one for the night, to provide 24-hour support for weight loss. The daytime pill works by boosting metabolism, increasing energy, and suppressing appetite. The nighttime pill helps to reduce evening cravings, promote better sleep, and support nighttime metabolism.

This unique approach helps users to burn more calories throughout the day and night, leading to increased weight loss. By working around the clock to support weight loss efforts, Phen24 is an effective and convenient option for individuals looking to achieve their weight loss goals.

Ingredients:

Phen24 contains a range of high-quality and natural ingredients that are carefully chosen for their weight loss properties. The ingredients used in Phen24 are divided into two formulas, one for the daytime pill and one for the nighttime pill.

Glucomannan is a fiber that can help to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness, while chromium picolinate can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings. Biotin helps to support the metabolism of macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

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#3. Leanbean: Highly Recommended Diet Pills For Women

Leanbean is the best weight loss supplement designed specifically for women. With Leanbean, you can finally say goodbye to fad diets, crash diets, and unrealistic weight loss goals. These powerful diet pills have been formulated to support your weight loss journey in a healthy and sustainable way.

Leanbean is more than just a weight loss supplement. Its a lifestyle choice. Its about taking control of your body, your health, and your confidence. The formula is designed to help reduce cravings, boost metabolism, and provide energy to help you power through your day. Its the perfect supplement for busy women who want to look and feel their best without sacrificing their health.

Its about feeling great, both inside and out. The supplement is designed to help you feel more confident, energized, and in control of your body. Its about empowering women to live their best lives and achieve their goals.

Leanbean works by using a powerful combination of natural ingredients that are specifically designed to support weight loss. These ingredients work together to help reduce cravings, boost metabolism, and provide energy, helping you to burn more calories and achieve your weight loss goals.

Additionally, Leanbean contains ingredients that can help support healthy digestion and hormone balance, which are crucial for optimal weight loss.

Ingredients:

Leanbean uses a combination of carefully selected ingredients. The formula includes natural extracts and nutrients that work together to provide effective weight loss support without any harmful side effects.

Some of the key ingredients in Leanbean include glucomannan and green coffee bean extract (which is a natural source of caffeine and antioxidants that help to boost metabolism and support healthy digestion).

One of the other key ingredient used in Leanbean is choline, a nutrient that helps to support healthy liver function and metabolism, and turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory that can help to reduce inflammation and support healthy digestion.

Leanbean also contains vitamins B6 and B12, which are essential for healthy metabolism and energy production, and chromium, a mineral that can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sugary foods.

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#4. Trimtone: Most Effective Belly Fat Burner

Trimtone is an amazing weight loss supplement designed for women who want to shed those extra pounds and feel confident in their skin. It is a natural, safe, and effective way to help you achieve your weight loss goals without the need for extreme diets or strenuous exercise routines.

Trimtone has been carefully formulated to target the specific needs of womens bodies, making it the perfect choice for those who have struggled with weight loss in the past. With regular use, Trimtone can help boost your metabolism, increase your energy levels, and curb your appetite, all of which can make it easier to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

One of the great things about Trimtone is that it is easy to use. Simply take one capsule each morning with a glass of water, and let the natural ingredients work their magic. There is no need to count calories or measure out portions, as Trimtone is designed to work in conjunction with a healthy and balanced diet.

Trimtone works by boosting the bodys natural fat-burning processes. It contains natural ingredients that have been shown to increase metabolism, suppresses appetite, and enhance energy levels. These ingredients work together to help the body burn more calories throughout the day, even while at rest.

By taking Trimtone regularly as part of a healthy diet and exercise plan, individuals can experience faster weight loss results and achieve their desired body weight.

Ingredients:

Here are some of the key ingredients in Trimtone:

These natural ingredients work together to create powerful weight-loss pills that can help individuals reach their desired body weight. They are carefully formulated to provide maximum benefits without any harmful side effects.

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#5. PrimeShred: Best For Higher Energy Levels

Primeshred has gained a reputation for being a high-quality and effective diet supplement that helps people reach their weight loss goals. Primeshred is designed to support a healthy metabolism and assist in burning unwanted fat. It is a safe and natural way to help individuals reach their ideal body weight.

Primeshred is not just another diet supplement. It has been carefully formulated by a team of experts who understand the needs of people who are struggling to lose weight. This product is the result of years of research and development, and it has been tested rigorously to ensure its effectiveness.

One of the best things about Primeshred is that it is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. It comes in the form of diet pills or capsules that can be taken with a glass of water. There is no need to follow a strict diet or exercise plan, although these lifestyle changes can certainly help you get the most out of Primeshred.

How Does PrimeShred work?

PrimeShred works by accelerating fat burning, boosting energy levels, and suppressing appetite. It aims to preserve muscle mass while reducing stress and anxiety. It increases metabolism, reduces the absorption of carbohydrates, and provides a natural energy boost.

Ingredients:

PrimeShred is formulated with several ingredients that are commonly found in weight loss supplements. Here are a few ingredients present in it:

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With so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to know which weight loss pills actually work.

Thats why weve taken the guesswork out of the equation and ranked the best weight loss pills available based on a combination of scientific evidence, user reviews, and expert opinions.

Here are a few factors we considered:

1. Safety first!

When it comes to weight loss pills, safety is our number one concern. We have only included diet pills that have been approved by the FDA, which means they have undergone rigorous testing to ensure that they are safe for consumption.

We also looked at any reported side effects to ensure that they were minimal and not harmful.

2. Effective ingredients

We carefully analyzed the ingredients and dosages of each weight loss pill to ensure that they are backed by scientific research and are effective in aiding weight loss.

For example, some ingredients that are effective in aiding weight loss include caffeine, green tea extract, and glucomannan.

3. Real-world results

While scientific studies are important, we also wanted to see how well each weight loss pill works in practice. Thats why we scoured customer reviews to see how people are using these products and what kind of results they are getting. We looked for weight loss pills that consistently receive positive reviews and have a track record of success.

4. Price matters

We understand that weight loss supplements can be expensive, so we made sure to include options that are reasonably priced and offer good value for money. We looked for weight loss supplements that are affordable without sacrificing quality or effectiveness.

5. Brand reputation is key

When it comes to weight loss pills, you want to make sure youre buying from a reputable company that produces high-quality products. We considered the overall reputation of the companies that produce the weight loss pills to ensure that youre getting a product that is trustworthy and reliable.

We looked for companies that have a good track record of producing high-quality products and have a positive reputation among consumers.

When taken correctly, weight loss pills can offer several benefits to those looking to lose weight. Lets go over some of the benefits.

This is often achieved through the use of appetite suppressants, which work by reducing the signals that are sent to the brain that trigger hunger. By reducing appetite, people may find it easier to stick to a healthy diet and reduce the amount of food they eat, which can ultimately lead to weight loss.

Some eight loss pills contain thermogenic ingredients, which can increase metabolism and help the body to burn more calories even when at rest. By increasing metabolism, weight loss pills can help people to burn more calories and lose weight more quickly.

Many weight loss pills contain caffeine or other stimulants that can increase energy levels and improve mental alertness. By providing an energy boost, weight loss pills can help people to exercise more frequently and for longer periods.

Some weight loss pills contain fat blockers that can help people to lose weight without having to drastically change their diet.

By regulating blood sugar levels, weight loss pills can help people to reduce their risk of developing these health problems.

We will discuss the different types of weight loss pills to help you understand their benefits and choose the right one for your weight loss journey.

1. Fat burners

Fat burners work by increasing your bodys metabolism, causing it to burn more calories than usual. These pills contain active ingredients that raise your bodys temperature, leading to increased metabolic rates.

This type of weight loss pill is particularly effective for people who are physically active and exercise regularly. Some of the common ingredients found in fat burners include caffeine, green tea extract, and yohimbine.

2. Carb blockers

Carb blockers work by preventing your body from digesting and absorbing carbohydrates. These weight loss pills contain active ingredients that target the digestive enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates, preventing it from breaking them down into glucose.

Carb blockers are particularly helpful for people who consume a lot of carbohydrates in their diet. Some of the common ingredients found in carb blockers include white kidney bean extract and green tea extract.

3. Thermogenics

Thermogenics work by increasing your bodys core temperature, leading to increased metabolic rates and calorie burn. These pills contain active ingredients that stimulate the bodys sympathetic nervous system, causing an increase in heart rate and energy levels.

Thermogenics are particularly helpful for people who want to boost their energy levels and metabolism. Some of the common ingredients found in thermogenic include caffeine, green tea extract, and capsaicin.

4. Appetite suppressants

Appetite suppressants work by reducing your appetite, making you feel fuller for longer periods, and reducing your food intake. These pills contain active ingredients that target the hunger hormone in your body, causing you to feel less hungry.

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Best Weight Loss Pills & Diet Supplements Of 2023 - The Times of Israel

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