Belviq (generic name- lorcaserin) is the new kid on the block when it comes to weight loss, and it’s the first weight loss drug to gain approval in 13 years. The drug works by activating a brain receptor that makes an individual feel full and, as with most weight loss drugs, is supposed to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.

Despite being touted for its potential to curb the obesity epidemic, the FDA rejected Contrave back in February due to safety concerns. The company actually put some of the blame on the FDA, saying that they were requiring “unprecedented” safety studies. However, the FDA has now outlined a clinical trial that could be completed by 2014 and would allow any significant side effects to come to light. And if the study goes well, it could be the first weight loss drug approved in the US in more than a decade.

As most everyone is aware, we are still in the midst of the cold and flu season. According to the CDC, “The geographic spread of influenza in 25 states was reported as widespread; 16 states reported regional influenza activity; the District of Columbia and four states reported local influenza activity, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and four states reported sporadic influenza activity.”

How else can we describe the four days that we are spending at the Holiday Inn Express in Sault Ste Marie? We are half way through our trip and decided that renewing the body and spirit would be important before embarking on the Canadian portion of the hike where we will encounter lots of rugged rocky coast line and lots of unanswered questions about route and travel.