The Impact of LA Fires on Your Health | Essential Steps to Safeguard Your Body
Sometimes my heart aches for California. As a California girl at heart, I hold such fond memories of living in the Golden State—the sunsets that seemed to set the ocean on fire, the fresh produce at every farmer's market, and the vibrancy of a place that feels alive in every way. But lately, those golden hues have been replaced by something much darker. The increasing prevalence of wildfires, especially in LA, has cast a shadow over the state I love so dearly.
This wildfire season, I’ve been deeply grateful that so many of my patients have managed to avoid the direct impacts of these disasters. But my heart breaks for California as a whole—for the families displaced, the communities devastated, and the toll it’s taking on the health of millions breathing in the smoky air. And it’s not just people. The wildfires are leaving a devastating impact on wildlife, too. From birds losing their habitats to larger animals fleeing for survival, it’s heartbreaking to think about the ripple effects these fires have on the ecosystem that makes California so special.
As we navigate the reality of wildfires becoming more frequent, understanding their effects on our health—particularly on our lungs, hearts, and even our gut—is critical. But it’s not just about what’s happening to our bodies; it’s about how we can protect and repair ourselves. From air purifiers to supplements, there are tangible steps we can take to safeguard our well-being and support the natural world around us. Let’s explore these solutions together—because our health, the safety of California’s wildlife, and the recovery of this beautiful state all matter more than ever.
The Science of Wildfires
What Are Wildfires?
Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that spread across natural landscapes, consuming vegetation, structures, and even entire ecosystems. While they can occur naturally, wildfires today are increasingly driven by human activities and environmental changes. In California, wildfires are not just a seasonal occurrence; they’ve become a year-round threat. Wildfires have burned over 7 million acres in California in the past five years, making it one of the most wildfire-prone regions in the world.
Globally, wildfire hotspots include Australia, the Amazon rainforest, and southern Europe, but California stands out due to its dry climate, strong Santa Ana winds, and urban encroachment into wildfire-prone areas. In Los Angeles County alone, over 1.7 million people live in zones designated as "very high fire hazard severity," highlighting the urgent need for prevention and protection measures.
How Do Wildfires Start?
Wildfires ignite when the three elements of the fire triangle—heat, fuel, and oxygen—come together. Natural causes like lightning strikes or volcanic activity account for some fires. However, the majority—up to 85% in the U.S., according to the National Interagency Fire Center—are caused by human actions. Careless behaviors such as unattended campfires, discarded cigarettes, or even sparks from power lines have led to some of California’s most catastrophic fires.
Deforestation and poor land management further exacerbate the problem. When forests are cleared for development or agriculture, the remaining vegetation becomes highly flammable. Additionally, California’s unique geography and weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and dry winds, create the perfect conditions for fires to ignite and spread rapidly.
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Climate Change and Wildfires
The worsening wildfire crisis is inextricably linked to climate change. Rising global temperatures are intensifying heatwaves and prolonging droughts, creating ideal conditions for wildfires to flourish. California's average annual temperature has increased by 1.8°F since 1895, and the state is experiencing longer and hotter fire seasons.
Animal agriculture also plays a significant role in this equation. The clearing of forests to make room for grazing livestock or to grow feed crops contributes significantly to deforestation, while methane emissions from cattle farming amplify greenhouse gas levels. The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the “lungs of the Earth,” has seen substantial deforestation and burning directly tied to cattle farming.
Wildfires themselves contribute to a destructive feedback loop. When forests and vegetation burn, they release massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The Global Fire Emissions Database estimates that wildfires emit around 8 billion tons of CO₂ annually, accelerating global warming. This feedback loop ensures that as the planet heats up, wildfires become more frequent and destructive, perpetuating the cycle and leaving ecosystems—and human health—devastated in their wake.
You might be wondering, why are we talking about wildfires on a #CellCare wellness blog? The answer is simple: wildfires are more than an environmental disaster—they have a profound impact on your body, right down to the cellular level. The toxic fumes, particulate matter, and pollutants released during these fires don’t just affect the air you breathe; they infiltrate every system in your body, triggering inflammation, oxidative stress, and long-term health challenges. So, let’s dive in and explore exactly what happens inside your body when you’re exposed to wildfire smoke, and how it affects your lungs, heart, brain, gut, and beyond.
The Impact of Wildfires on Your Health
Wildfires release a complex cocktail of pollutants into the air, including fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and heavy metals. These pollutants are so tiny that they bypass your body’s natural defenses, entering the lungs and bloodstream, where they wreak havoc on cellular health. This systemic exposure leads to oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage, which impact every organ system in your body. Let’s break it down.
1. Lungs | The First Line of Exposure
When you inhale wildfire smoke, the respiratory tract bears the initial brunt. The fine particles (PM2.5) penetrate deep into the lungs, bypassing natural filtration mechanisms like nasal hairs and mucosal linings. This exposure leads to acute symptoms such as bronchitis, asthma exacerbations, and lung inflammation. Over time, chronic exposure increases the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even lung cancer.
On a cellular level, PM2.5 triggers the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which causes oxidative stress and damages lung tissue. Studies highlight that prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can significantly impair lung function, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with preexisting conditions.
2. Heart | The Hidden Cardiovascular Risks
The cardiovascular system is not immune to wildfire pollution. Particulate matter and carbon monoxide can enter the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. This process damages the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), increasing the risk of arterial stiffness, arrhythmias, and heart attacks.
Research from the American Heart Association shows that short-term exposure to wildfire smoke can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, while long-term exposure significantly increases the risk of ischemic heart disease. PM2.5, in particular, triggers a cascade of inflammatory responses, accelerating plaque buildup in arteries and making them more prone to rupture.
3. Brain | Neurotoxic Effects of Wildfire Smoke
The fine particles and toxic compounds in wildfire smoke can cross the blood-brain barrier, exposing the brain to inflammation and oxidative damage. Neuroinflammation caused by these pollutants is associated with cognitive fog, memory loss, and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Wildfire smoke also exacerbates mental health challenges. The stress of living in fire-prone areas, combined with the physiological effects of pollution, increases anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to research prolonged exposure to air pollution is linked to a 20% higher risk of mental health disorders. This highlights the dual burden of physical and mental health challenges associated with wildfires.
4. Gut |The Overlooked Connection
The gut, often referred to as the body’s “second brain,” is also deeply affected by wildfire smoke. Air pollution alters the gut microbiome by disrupting the balance of beneficial bacteria. This imbalance, known as dysbiosis, is linked to systemic inflammation and conditions like leaky gut syndrome.
The gut-lung axis—a bidirectional communication system between the respiratory and digestive systems—plays a key role here. Inflammation in the lungs caused by PM2.5 and VOCs can disrupt gut barrier function, weakening the immune response. A study found that exposure to air pollution significantly reduced microbial diversity, a marker of gut health, and increased markers of inflammation throughout the body.
5. Skin | The Body’s Largest Organ
The skin, your body’s largest protective barrier, is not immune to the effects of wildfire pollution. Particulate matter and VOCs settle on the skin, causing dryness, irritation, and inflammation. These pollutants can also penetrate the skin barrier, leading to oxidative stress and premature aging by damaging collagen and elastin fibers.
A study revealed that air pollution accelerates visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and dark spots, by up to 20%. Additionally, toxins absorbed through the skin can enter the bloodstream, contributing to systemic health effects. This underscores the importance of protecting the skin from environmental pollutants during wildfire season.
6. The Cellular Impact | A System-Wide Crisis
At the cellular level, wildfire pollutants trigger oxidative stress, a condition where the production of free radicals exceeds the body’s antioxidant defenses. This imbalance damages DNA, proteins, and lipids, impairing cellular function across all organ systems. Prolonged oxidative stress can lead to chronic inflammation, a known driver of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune conditions.
Moreover, PM2.5 and other pollutants impair mitochondrial function, reducing the energy production needed for cellular repair and regeneration. This cellular dysfunction is at the core of many wildfire-related health challenges, underscoring the need for targeted strategies to protect and repair cellular health.
Maybe you personally haven’t been directly impacted by the wildfires, but I’m sure you know someone who has. Maybe it’s a friend whose husband is a firefighter, risking his life on the frontlines. Or perhaps it’s someone who owns horse stables where you’ve spent time, now scrambling to evacuate their animals to safety. Maybe it’s someone you met while visiting California—a family whose home is now just ashes and memories.
At the end of the day, what impacts one of us truly impacts all of us. The ripple effects of wildfires touch our communities, our air, our health, and even our hearts. That’s why it’s so important to understand how to protect ourselves, support one another, and be proactive in staying safe. As we continue, let’s learn together how to safeguard our health in times like these. And if you find this helpful, consider forwarding this blog to a friend—because knowledge and care can go a long way in times of crisis.
How to Protect Your Health During Wildfires
Wildfire smoke and ash aren’t just nuisances—they pose significant health risks. Thankfully, there are tools and strategies you can use to reduce your exposure and protect your health. Here’s how you can make your home a sanctuary during wildfire season and safeguard your well-being.
Devices for Protection
1. Air Purifiers | Breathing Clean Air Starts Here
When wildfires are burning, the air outside can become dangerously polluted with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other harmful toxins. These particles are small enough to penetrate your lungs and enter your bloodstream, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. This makes a high-quality air purifier essential.
Why HEPA Filters? High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, effectively removing wildfire smoke, allergens, and even some bacteria from your indoor air.
Our Recommendation: The AirDoctor Pro is a game-changer for your home. Its UltraHEPA filter captures particles 100 times smaller than a standard HEPA filter, making it ideal for wildfire pollution. Portable enough for any room, it’s perfect for creating a cleaner air environment wherever you need it most.
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2. Water Filters: Safeguarding What You Drink
Wildfires don’t just pollute the air—they can contaminate local water supplies with ash, heavy metals, and other toxins. While municipal water treatment facilities work hard to filter these pollutants, having a reliable water filtration system at home adds an extra layer of protection.
Advanced Filtration Systems: Reverse osmosis systems and activated carbon filters are some of the best options for removing contaminants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs), lead, and other pollutants that might leach into your water supply after a wildfire.
Our Recommendation: The AquaTru water filtration system uses advanced technology to remove up to 99% of contaminants, including lead, chlorine, and PFAs (“forever chemicals”). It’s an excellent option for ensuring clean, safe drinking water for you and your family.
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3. Masks: Reducing Direct Exposure
If you must go outside during a wildfire, wearing the right mask is crucial. Not all masks are created equal when it comes to filtering out harmful particles in wildfire smoke.
N95 and P100 Masks: These masks are specifically designed to filter out fine particulate matter. Unlike cloth or surgical masks, N95 and P100 masks can block up to 95-99% of small particles, offering significant protection for your respiratory system.
When to Wear Them: Anytime you’re outdoors or in a space where air quality is compromised due to wildfire smoke.
Home Environment Tips
Even with devices in place, small actions at home can make a big difference in protecting your health during wildfire season.
Seal Your Space: Use weather stripping to seal windows and doors to prevent outdoor air from seeping inside. Closing gaps can help keep pollutants at bay.
Create a “Clean Room”: Designate one room in your home to have the cleanest air possible. Use your air purifier here, and keep windows and doors closed. This can serve as a safe retreat during times of heavy smoke.
Avoid Activities That Worsen Indoor Air: Refrain from burning candles, using wood stoves, or vacuuming without a HEPA filter, as these can stir up particles and worsen indoor air quality.
By combining these tools and practices, you can create a safer and healthier environment for yourself and your loved ones during wildfire season. Don’t wait until the smoke is at your doorstep—be proactive in protecting your air, water, and overall well-being. And if you know someone who could benefit from this information, feel free to share it with them. After all, caring for our health is something we can all do together.
With the right devices in place to safeguard your home and immediate environment, you’ve already taken a big step toward protecting your body from wildfire pollution. But while air purifiers, water filters, and masks shield you from external exposure, the damage caused by wildfire toxins doesn’t stop at the surface. Smoke particles and pollutants that make their way into your body can wreak havoc at the cellular level, impacting your lungs, heart, brain, gut, and skin.
This is where supplements step in as powerful allies. Each of the supplements we’ll discuss offers targeted support to specific organ systems, while also delivering systemic cellular benefits. For example, antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione neutralize the oxidative stress triggered by fine particulate matter, preventing DNA damage and promoting cellular repair. Lung-supportive compounds like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) help boost your natural detox pathways, while probiotics restore gut health and strengthen your immune response. Omega-3 fatty acids protect brain cells from neuroinflammation, and adaptogens like Ashwagandha calm the body’s stress response, offering resilience against systemic inflammation.
Let’s dive into the supplements that can help repair and protect your body, ensuring that your cells—and the organs they support—can recover and thrive despite environmental challenges.
Supplements to Protect and Repair Your Body
Antioxidants for Cellular Protection
Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting your body from the oxidative stress caused by exposure to wildfire smoke. The tiny particles in wildfire pollution, such as PM2.5 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), generate free radicals—unstable molecules that damage cells, proteins, and DNA. This oxidative stress triggers inflammation and compromises your body’s ability to repair itself, leaving you vulnerable to a host of health issues. Antioxidants are your body’s frontline defense, neutralizing these free radicals and restoring balance at the cellular level.
1. Vitamin C | Neutralizing Free Radicals from Smoke
Wildfire smoke is a significant source of oxidative stress, and vitamin C is one of the most potent antioxidants for combating its effects. Vitamin C works by scavenging free radicals, preventing them from damaging cellular structures like membranes and DNA. Additionally, it regenerates other antioxidants in the body, such as vitamin E, amplifying its protective effects.
In the context of wildfire exposure, vitamin C’s role extends to reducing inflammation in the lungs and enhancing immune function. Studies have shown that people exposed to high levels of air pollution often have depleted vitamin C levels, making supplementation critical. By supporting lung tissue repair and immune response, vitamin C helps mitigate the immediate and long-term health impacts of smoke exposure.
2. Glutathione | The Master Antioxidant for Detoxification
Glutathione is often called the body’s “master antioxidant” for its unparalleled role in detoxification and cellular repair. Wildfire smoke introduces a variety of toxins, including heavy metals and VOCs, into your body. Glutathione binds to these toxins, aiding in their removal through the liver and protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Glutathione also plays a crucial role in maintaining lung health during smoke exposure. It reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract and supports the regeneration of lung tissue damaged by fine particulate matter. Low levels of glutathione have been linked to increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, making it a critical supplement for those exposed to wildfire pollution.
3. Astaxanthin | Potent Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for Cellular Health
Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant derived from microalgae, known for its ability to quench free radicals and reduce inflammation. Compared to other antioxidants, astaxanthin is unique because it works across cell membranes, protecting both the inside and outside of cells. This dual action makes it particularly effective in mitigating the cellular damage caused by wildfire toxins.
As wildfire smoke floods the body with inflammatory compounds, astaxanthin helps regulate the immune response, preventing it from going into overdrive. This is especially important for organs like the lungs, heart, and brain, which are highly susceptible to inflammation-induced damage. Additionally, astaxanthin supports mitochondrial health, ensuring that your cells have the energy they need to repair and regenerate after exposure to environmental stressors.
Together, these antioxidants form a powerful defense against the cellular damage caused by wildfire pollution. By neutralizing free radicals, reducing inflammation, and supporting detoxification, they help protect your body from the inside out, ensuring that your cells—and the organs they support—remain resilient in the face of environmental challenges.
Lung Support
1. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) | Enhancing Lung Function and Boosting Glutathione
NAC is a precursor to glutathione, the master antioxidant that plays a vital role in detoxifying the body from pollutants, including those found in wildfire smoke. NAC helps break down mucus in the lungs, improving respiratory function and clearing out harmful particles trapped in the airways.
During wildfire exposure, the lungs are bombarded with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that triggers oxidative stress and inflammation. NAC not only replenishes depleted glutathione levels but also reduces inflammation in the respiratory pathways, promoting tissue repair and protecting against long-term damage like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Its dual role in detoxification and lung health makes it indispensable during wildfire season.
2. Quercetin | Reducing Inflammation in Respiratory Pathways
Quercetin is a flavonoid known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It stabilizes mast cells, preventing the release of histamines and other inflammatory compounds that exacerbate respiratory issues like asthma or bronchitis during wildfire exposure.
By directly reducing inflammation in the respiratory pathways, quercetin helps alleviate symptoms such as wheezing and coughing. Additionally, it protects lung cells from oxidative damage caused by toxins in smoke, making it a valuable ally in safeguarding respiratory health.
Gut Health
1. Probiotic | Restoring Balance in the Gut Microbiome
Wildfire pollutants don’t just affect your lungs; they also disrupt your gut microbiome, a critical component of your immune system and overall health. Airborne toxins enter the body through the lungs and bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation that impacts the gut-lung axis.
Probiotics help restore balance by repopulating the gut with beneficial bacteria, which are often depleted by inflammation and oxidative stress. A healthy microbiome strengthens your immune response, supports digestion, and reduces systemic inflammation caused by wildfire exposure, aiding in faster recovery.
2. Prebiotics | Supporting Healthy Bacteria Growth Post-Exposure
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for probiotics, helping beneficial bacteria thrive in the gut. After wildfire exposure, prebiotics can accelerate the recovery of gut health by supporting the growth of protective bacterial strains that combat inflammation and enhance immunity.
Prebiotic-rich foods or supplements work synergistically with probiotics to repair the gut barrier, preventing the systemic spread of toxins that can exacerbate inflammation and oxidative damage. Foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and Jerusalem artichokes are excellent sources of prebiotics, providing the essential fibers that feed beneficial bacteria in your gut. Whole grains like oats and barley, as well as legumes like chickpeas and lentils, are also prebiotic powerhouses. Incorporating these foods into your meals can enhance gut health and strengthen your body’s defenses against wildfire-induced inflammation and oxidative stress.
Brain and Nervous System Support
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Protecting Against Neuroinflammation
Wildfire pollutants can cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are essential for protecting brain cells and reducing inflammation in the central nervous system.
Studies have shown that omega-3s enhance cognitive function and protect against neurological damage caused by environmental toxins. During wildfire exposure, omega-3s can help reduce brain fog, improve mood, and lower the risk of long-term neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
2. Magnesium | Calming the Nervous System During Stress
The stress of living through wildfire season can take a toll on your nervous system. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant and nervous system modulator that helps combat the heightened stress response triggered by wildfire exposure.
Magnesium also plays a role in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, improving sleep quality and helping the body recover from the physiological and psychological impacts of stress. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake can help you stay calm and resilient during challenging times.
Overall Cellular Health
1. Adaptogens Like Ashwagandha | Reducing Oxidative Stress and Supporting Resilience
Adaptogens are herbs that help the body adapt to stress by balancing physiological processes. Ashwagandha, in particular, is renowned for its ability to reduce oxidative stress, which is a key driver of cellular damage during wildfire exposure.
Ashwagandha supports adrenal function, helping to regulate cortisol levels and reduce inflammation throughout the body. This makes it a powerful ally in promoting cellular resilience and maintaining overall health during prolonged periods of environmental stress.
2. Curcumin | Anti-Inflammatory Properties to Protect Multiple Organ Systems
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is one of the most potent natural anti-inflammatories. It works by inhibiting inflammatory pathways at the cellular level, protecting organs like the lungs, heart, and brain from damage caused by wildfire toxins.
Curcumin’s antioxidant properties also neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular repair across all organ systems. Its systemic benefits make it an essential supplement for anyone exposed to wildfire smoke, helping to protect and heal the body from within.
These supplements provide targeted support for each of the systems affected by wildfire smoke while delivering overarching benefits for cellular health. By incorporating them into your routine, you can strengthen your body’s defenses, promote healing, and ensure resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
Empowering Your Health Amid Wildfires
Wildfires are not just a natural disaster—they are a direct assault on your health, impacting your lungs, heart, brain, gut, and even your skin. The toxic particles and pollutants released into the air during wildfire events can lead to systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage, setting the stage for long-term health challenges. But knowledge is power, and with the right proactive steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these hidden dangers.
Devices like high-quality air purifiers and water filtration systems provide essential first lines of defense, ensuring the air you breathe and the water you drink are as clean as possible. Supplements, from antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione to adaptogens like ashwagandha, offer internal protection by neutralizing free radicals, reducing inflammation, and supporting cellular repair across your body’s vital systems. By combining these tools with simple home practices, such as sealing windows and doors and creating a clean air zone, you can significantly minimize your exposure and bolster your resilience.
While wildfires are an increasingly urgent challenge, they also remind us of the power we have to protect and care for ourselves. Your body is incredibly resilient, and with the right tools and strategies, you can safeguard your health, support your recovery, and stay strong in the face of environmental adversity. Share this knowledge with those around you—because when we come together as a community, we can empower one another to thrive, even in the most challenging circumstances. Protect your body, protect your cells, and take the steps you need to breathe easier, live well, and support your long-term health.
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References:
Black, C., Tesfaigzi, Y., Bassein, J. A., et al. "Wildfire smoke exposure and human health: Significant gaps in research for a growing public health issue." Environmental Health Perspectives 125, no. 3 (2017): 420-428.
Pope, C. A., Dockery, D. W., and Schwartz, J. "Review of epidemiological evidence of health effects of particulate air pollution." Inhalation Toxicology 7, no. 1 (1995): 1-18.
Chen, R., Zhao, A., Chen, H., et al. "Cardiopulmonary benefits of reducing indoor particles of outdoor origin: A randomized, double-blind crossover trial of air purifiers." Journal of the American College of Cardiology 65, no. 22 (2015): 2279-2287.
Calderón-Garcidueñas, L., Kulesza, R. J., Doty, R. L., et al. "Air pollution is associated with brainstem auditory nuclei pathology and delayed brainstem auditory evoked potentials." International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience 55 (2016): 59-68.
Ran, L., Zhao, W., Wang, J., et al. "Air pollution alters gut microbiome composition and function in healthy adults: Evidence from a controlled crossover exposure study." Gut Microbes 11, no. 2 (2020): 471-482.
Vierkötter, A., Schikowski, T., Ranft, U., et al. "Airborne particle exposure and extrinsic skin aging." Journal of Investigative Dermatology 130, no. 12 (2010): 2719-2726.
The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Information is shared for educational purposes only. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. Our content may include products that have been independently chosen and recommended by Dr. Monisha Bhanote and our editors. We may earn a small commission if you purchase something mentioned in this article.
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