Question: What color is pure caffeine?
(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)
CARY SPOTLIGHT: HEALTH & WELLNESS EDITION
These articles are for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.
Five Ways to Enjoy Holiday Food Without the Guilt
“Dr. Estelle is an absolute sunbeam — a brilliant blend of warmth, wisdom, and energy. Through her work, she helps people reconnect with balance and wellbeing in a way that feels empowering, approachable, and real.” - WBON Triangle
As the holiday season winds down, many people find themselves reflecting on their eating habits. The good news is that enjoying festive foods doesn’t have to lead to regret. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced approach to eating—one that welcomes occasional indulgences without guilt.
Here are five practical tips to help you feel good during and after the holidays:
Prioritize Protein
Start your meals with protein-rich foods like turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, or a protein shake. This can help curb cravings and steady your appetite throughout the day.Build a Balanced Plate
Aim to fill half your plate with colorful vegetables and fruits, add a palm-sized portion of protein, a fist-sized serving of carbohydrates, and a small amount of healthy fat. Once your plate is balanced, there's room for a few festive extras.Choose Your Favorite Treats
Before the celebrations begin, decide which 1 or 2 desserts or treats matter most to you. Savor them mindfully and skip the internal tallying.Pause Before Going for Seconds
Give yourself a 10-minute break before considering more food. Use that time to sip water, enjoy conversation, or simply take a breath. If you’re still hungry, eat more without hesitation.Return to Routine the Next Day
There’s no need for a major reset. A nourishing breakfast, some light movement, plenty of water, and your usual supplements are enough to feel balanced again.
👉 Want a personalized plan to simplify your vitamin and supplement routine so you can confidently create a foundation of lifelong wellness?
Book your free wellness chat with Dr. Estelle and map out the simple shifts that will make the biggest difference for you.
What’s Your “Worth It” Holiday Treat?
Mental Health Support for the Holidays
For many people, Christmas brings joy, celebration, and time with loved ones. But for others, the holiday season can feel overwhelming, lonely, or stressful. If you're struggling with your mental health this Christmas, you're not alone—and help is available.
The holiday season often comes with unique pressures. Financial stress from gift-giving, family conflicts, grief over lost loved ones, or feelings of isolation can all take a toll on mental well-being. Social media and advertisements showing picture-perfect celebrations can make people feel like they're falling short. For those already dealing with depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, these feelings can become even more intense during Christmas.
It's important to remember that it's okay not to feel festive. Your feelings are valid, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
When to Reach Out
If you're experiencing persistent sadness, hopelessness, thoughts of self-harm, or if you're in crisis, professional support can make a real difference. You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable to reach out. Sometimes just talking to someone who understands can help you feel less alone.
Free Help Is Available
If you need someone to talk to, trained counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, completely free and confidential:
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text: 988
Available 24/7 for anyone experiencing emotional distress or a mental health crisis
Confidential support from trained counselors
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
Free, 24/7 support via text message
Connect with a crisis counselor from anywhere in the U.S.
NAMI Helpline (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Call: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET
Information, resources, and support for mental health concerns
These services are free, confidential, and staffed by people who care. You don't need to be in a crisis to call—if you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to listen, these resources are here for you.
This holiday season, remember that your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's necessary. And if you need help, please reach out. The holidays can be hard, but you don't have to face them alone
Just curious…
There’s nothing like a classic holiday film to set the mood. Which one tops your list?
What’s Your Favorite Christmas Holiday Movie?
Meme of the Day.
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🎟️ Upcoming Events (Top Picks)
Outdoor events may be changed due to weather, so click the links to see latest event information. Here are a few ideas for the week, so plan ahead:
• Wednesday: 2025 Gifting Tree Project ALL DAY
• Wednesday: NC Chinese Lantern Festival 6PM
• Thursday: MERRY CHRISTMAS!
• Thursday: 2025 Gifting Tree Project ALL DAY
• Friday: 2025 Gifting Tree Project ALL DAY
• Friday: NC Chinese Lantern Festival 6PM
But wait! There’s more. To save space in your inbox, we’ve moved the full list of events online — now you can plan ahead: See Full 2-Week Calendar
The Answer to the Cary Spotlight Hook Trivia Question 👇👇👇
A: White ☕
Pure caffeine is a white, crystalline powder.
It has a bitter taste and is chemically classified as a xanthine alkaloid.
It’s found in plants like coffee, tea, and cacao, acting as a stimulant affecting various body systems and often used for alertness. It's naturally bitter and works as a pesticide for plants, while in humans, it boosts energy and focus but high doses can cause side effects like insomnia.
Learn more about Caffeine