• 🧠 Trivia Challenge: Spotlight Hook
• 💪 Wellness Tip: Why Early Screening for Colon Cancer Could Save Your Life
• ⚠️ Health Alert: New U.S. Dietary Guidelines Focus on Whole Foods and Less Sugar
• 😄 Meme of the Day – Just for laughs
• ❤️ Communities need strong connections: Show Your Support
• 📅 Events: Upcoming Events (Top Picks)

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“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

Colon cancer begins in the colon, the longest section of the large intestine and an essential part of the digestive system. While it can occur at any age, it most often affects adults over 50. The disease typically starts as noncancerous growths called polyps, which can develop into cancer over time. Because polyps often cause no symptoms, routine screenings are key to early detection and prevention.

Once colon cancer forms, it may present symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and unintentional weight loss. However, many individuals do not experience symptoms in the early stages. Diagnosis typically leads to a combination of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and newer options like targeted and immunotherapy.

The exact cause of colon cancer remains unclear, but it is linked to genetic mutations in colon cells that cause uncontrolled growth. These abnormal cells can form tumors, invade nearby tissue, and spread to other parts of the body.

Several factors increase the risk, including age, race, personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases, inherited syndromes, and lifestyle choices such as a high-fat diet, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use. Certain medical treatments, such as radiation therapy to the abdomen, also elevate risk.

Doctors recommend beginning screening at age 45 for those at average risk, with earlier screening for high-risk individuals. Preventive strategies include eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding tobacco. In some high-risk cases, medications like aspirin may reduce the risk of developing polyps or cancer, but these carry their own risks and should be used under medical supervision. Mayo Clinic Advice on Colon Cancer

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The latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans emphasize a return to basics: eating more whole foods, reducing added sugars and preservatives, and increasing healthy fats and proteins. Released this week by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the USDA, the updated guidance aims to help Americans make more informed dietary choices for better long-term health.

Key recommendations include eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and lean proteins. The guidance encourages limiting ultra-processed foods, which are often high in added sugar, sodium, unhealthy fats, and low in fiber. These foods have been linked to chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

A new visual tool — an inverted food pyramid — replaces the MyPlate graphic, signaling an updated emphasis on protein and healthy fats. While the image suggests a more prominent role for animal proteins and full-fat dairy, nutrition experts advise moderation, especially for those with cardiovascular risk factors. Whole grains remain an essential part of the diet, and fiber intake continues to be a priority for gut and metabolic health.

The updated guidance also reiterates limits on sodium (less than 2,300 mg/day) and added sugar (less than 6% of daily calories), while advising minimal alcohol consumption. Though protein recommendations have increased, most Americans already meet or exceed these targets. Experts suggest focusing on balance, quality of food choices, and personal health needs rather than overhauling diets based on broad visuals alone. Read Full Report

What’s faster than word of mouth? Cary Spotlight! Keeps you updated on what is going on locally and connects businesses to our vibrant community.

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: Winter Bird Adventure 2PM-3PM
• Thursday: Art Cart 12PM-3PM
• Thursday: Zumba 6PM-7PM
• Friday: New Year, New Laughs: Kiki’s Comedy Club Showcase 7PM-9:30PM

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