How to make Greek Potatoes (Oven-Roasted and Delicious!)

How to make Greek Potatoes (Oven-Roasted and Delicious!)

Ingredients:

• 8 large potatoes, peeled, cut into large wedges (about 6-7 wedges per potato)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (more garlic is a good thing, less garlic is a no-no for this recipe)
• ¹⁄₂ cup olive oil
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano (get the Mediterranean, it's the best!)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• sea salt
• fresh coarse ground black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 420°F A reviewer has suggested spraying the baking pan with Pam - that sounds like a great idea!
2. Put all the ingredients into a baking pan large enough to hold them.
3. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.
4. Make sure your hands are very clean and put them in the pan and give everything a toss to distribute.
5. The garlic will drop into the water/oil solution but its flavour will permeate the potatoes, and this way, it won't burn.
6. Bake for 40 minutes.
7. When a nice golden-brown crust has formed on the potatoes, give them a stir to bring the white underside up, season lightly with a bit more sea salt and pepper and just a light sprinkling of oregano.
8. Add 1/2 cup more water if pan appears to be getting dry, and pop back into oven to brown other side of potatoes.
9. This will take about another 40 minutes.
10. Do not be afraid of overcooking the potatoes- they will be delicious.
11. Note: I often melt a bouillon cube in the water; if you do, make sure to cut back some on the salt.

Do cats really hate water?

Do cats really hate water?

Cats' aversion to water is widely accepted as fact -- but in truth, not all cats feel the same about taking a dip. One domestic breed, the strikingly beautiful Turkish Van cat, actually delights in getting wet. His ancestors did, too, plunging into lake waters to better cope with the extreme summer heat in the Lake Van region of Turkey, where the breed originated.

If your cat is any other breed, he probably views swimming and bathing as spectator sports -- and the prospect of being caught in a thunderstorm with raindrops drenching his fur is unthinkable. What do most felines really think of water? Here's what we've found:

Water Aversion

If a cat's experiences with water are mainly exposure to a sopping rainstorm, a forced bath or being sprayed with water as a disciplinary measure, why wouldn't she shy away from water? Scientists contend that cats' dislike of water comes from house cats' owners shielding them from the elements since the earliest periods of domestication and from their ancestors -- wild cats in Europe, Africa and China's desert cat -- whose limited experience with water did not require adapting and evolving to deal with it. Lions and leopards avoid river-dwelling predators (like crocodiles) by staying away from water.

On the other hand, some big cats in the wild, especially those in hot, arid areas, regularly swim and bathe to stay cool or catch dinner. The Asian fishing cat is a skilled swimmer, with partially webbed paws, that dives to nab its prey.

That Mesmerizing Drip

Despite not enjoying a full immersion, many house cats are fascinated by water, dipping an exploring paw into the water bowl to scatter a few drops or running into the bathroom at the sound of a shower.

A dripping faucet is a cat magnet, an interactive toy that draws playful paws eager to catch a drop or two. But even without a drip, a cat may gaze at a faucet, hoping to see a trickle.  Author Susan Conant, known for her mysteries starring dogs, also wrote "Scratch the Surface," in which she described a fictional Chartreux cat's encounter with a faucet: "How long can a cat safely go without water? The question never occurs to Brigitte, who nonetheless jumps to the kitchen counter, scampers to the sink and trains her amber eyes on the faucet. Just in case." For cats fascinated by water, flowing pet fountains that recirculate water in a continual whirl are great fun, and a good way to get them to drink more.

Conquering Bathtime

Unlike dogs, cats rarely need a bath because they do so much self-grooming. But if yours gets into something sticky or smelly, or has a skin condition that requires bathing, you'll want to help Kitty cope with the watery experience. If you begin bathing a cat when he's young, he will grow accustomed to the feeling of water. Place him in an empty tub or sink, speak reassuringly, and run a washcloth wet with room-temperature water over his fur -- just enough to get him damp. If he's calm enough, start filling the bath or use a tumbler or pitcher of warm water -- never hot -- and slowly pour this over his fur. You can also try a hose attached to the faucet to saturate his coat. Working from head to tail, apply a small amount of diluted feline shampoo and work up the suds, cleaning the cat's fur and skin. Be sure to rinse more than once to prevent shampoo residue from irritating his skin, or getting into his mouth when he tries to lick himself dry. Dry him with a clean, fluffy towel, praising him for braving bathtime.

How to Choose a Cat Sitter

Housecats rely on their pet parents for food, water and the occasional treat. Other than these basic needs, cats seem to prefer an independent life. So why not just set out a three-day supply of food and water when you leave town for a long weekend?

Turns out, cats do need us -- maybe more than we realize. Hiring a pet sitter will ensure that your cat has adequate food, water and supervision. This is especially important because these creatures are accustomed to human companionship and become stressed by its sudden absence. Plus, a pet sitter can contact a veterinarian if your cat becomes ill or injured.

As a general rule, your cat should not be alone for more than 12 hours. If your cat has a strict feeding schedule or requires medication, she may be able to spend only three or four hours alone. You can expect most professional cat sitters to come to your home at least once a day -- more often if your pet's health demands it.

"We do no less than one visit per day for cats," says Jennifer Pierce, who, along with her husband Andrew, owns the Atlanta-based Spoiled Rotten Pet Sitting Service. "Some pet sitters will visit every other day, but that's way too long to leave a cat if something goes wrong. A cat's health can go downhill very quickly."

According to Pet Sitters International, it takes about 30 minutes for a professional cat sitter to care for one cat per visit. During the visit, the sitter will feed and water your cat and change the litter box. A cat sitter also will play with your cat, so be sure to leave plenty of toys -- including a few new ones to keep your cat entertained.

If you hire an amateur cat sitter, such as a neighbor or friend, make sure you choose someone reliable who will be able to come by at least once a day for at least 30 minutes. A professional may be better trained to handle fussy eating habits or medication, but a cat-owning or otherwise capable friend is a good choice, too.

Be sure to ask any cat sitter about their previous cat care experiences. Ask a professional sitter for references -- and be sure to call them. As a bonus, professional pet sitters are typically bonded and insured, which provides additional safety and peace of mind.

There are a number of boarding facilities that accept cats for overnight care, but this option may be nerve-wracking for cats that are used to a far more private (and quiet) environment. Hiring a pet sitter to watch your cat at home sidesteps this issue, and is often about half the price of boarding your cat away from home.
On average, a pet sitter will charge $15 to $20 per day for one cat, with an additional $5 or so for each additional cat. It may cost more for the sitter to pay early morning or evening visits to your home. Pierce adds that if a cat requires more than 30 minutes of care or entertainment, her company charges an additional fee.
Industry organizations like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International offer training and certification to their members, as well as online member databases to help you locate a pet sitter in your area. Your cat's veterinarian or fellow pet parents also may have suggestions.
Expect your pet sitter to use a contract that details their services, fees and responsibilities -- some sitters will even water houseplants or bring in the mail. Ask the sitter how they would care for your pet if a natural disaster occurred while you were gone, or if your pet becomes sick or hurt.
Most pet sitters will come to your home several days before their services are needed. This way, the sitter can meet the cat, get a quick tour, go over the cat's schedule and answer (or ask) additional questions.
If you hire a friend or neighbor to check on your cat during your absence, you could offer to pay them $5 to $10 a day or present them with a gift upon your return. Or you could return the favor instead. For example, PetSwapUSA.com matches pet owners willing to watch each other's pets -- for free.
Whether you choose a professional or a volunteer to cat sit, the time and effort you put into planning will help ensure that your time apart is a positive experience for your feline friend.

us to cats?

What are the most common cat diseases?

What are the most common cat diseases?

More CatsCat Breed Selector, Feline Fact Puzzles, Match the Cats, Kitten's First Year, Ginger's Hidden Adventure Game

Cats are prone to a handful of specific illnesses, all with distinctive symptoms. Knowing what ails them and why will help you determine the right treatment to get them healthy again. Preventing problems, from viruses to worms, will keep your cat from being sidelined by discomfort. Here are some diseases to watch for:

 Viruses and bacteria can invade a cat's nose, throat and sinuses, causing upper respiratory infections (URIs). Feline calicivirus and feline herpes virus are the most contagious types of URIs. In multi-cat homes or shelters, viruses are passed through shared food or water dishes, grooming or sneezing. Secondary bacterial infections may develop along with the viruses. Stress and overcrowding contribute to URIs, and cats with flat faces, such as Persians, are more susceptible to infection. Signs of URIs include a runny nose, congestion, nasal discharge, fever, loss of appetite and rapid breathing. Antibiotics, isolation and fluids will effectively fight URIs. Keeping your cat indoors to limit contact with infected cats, minimizing stress, and having up-to-date vaccinations and regular vet exams, help maintain a healthy immune system.

Feline gingivitis, or gum inflammation, is the earliest stage of periodontis, the most widespread feline dental disease. Gingivitis is caused by plaque, a combination of a sticky bacterial film and food particles accumulating along the gumline. Cats that've been fed a high-carbohydrate diet become more sensitive to plaque bacteria. Mingled with saliva and minerals, plaque can harden into tartar, a yellowish crust that irritates the cat's gums. Left untreated, tartar eventually builds up under the gum, separating it from the teeth. Reddened gums, bad breath and difficulty eating are early signs of gingivitis, which usually begins with one tooth but can spread quickly. This bacterium can spread to other organs through the bloodstream and cause kidney damage.
If gingivitis has been diagnosed, your cat's teeth should be professionally cleaned. Follow up with daily brushing, using a special feline-formula toothpaste. Good oral hygiene is the best way to fight gingivitis, and special dental-formula cat foods can help keep teeth and gums strong. Your vet may also prescribe antibiotics to treat gingivitis.

Even indoor cats can get worms. Roundworm is one of the most widespread forms, contracted from eating infected insects, rodents or birds or by contact with contaminated soil. Roundworms invade a cat's intestines, and can migrate to his bloodstream and organs. Spaghetti-shaped strings in his feces or vomit, a distended belly, dull coat, lack of appetite and diarrhea indicate roundworm infestation. A large buildup of roundworms can be fatal for kittens.
Cats get tapeworm, long and ribbon-shaped, from ingesting a flea that has consumed tapeworm eggs. The larvae hatch in the cat's stomach, attaching to its small intestines. Tapeworms sap nutrients; a feline heavily infested with tapeworms will lose weight and suffer mild diarrhea. Rice-shaped grains around the cat's anus and in his feces signal tapeworm.
Oral dewormer medication is the treatment for roundworm and tapeworm. Cleanliness, flea control and keeping the cat indoors will help fight worms.

 Urinary tract disease occurs in the bladder and the urethra, the tube leading from the bladder that carries urine out of the cat's system. Characterized by blood in the urine and painful urination, urinary tract disease has no specific cause but several possible ones: cystitis, dehydration, bacterial infection or the high ash and mineral content in dry cat food. Cats experiencing urinary or bladder problems may strain while urinating, squatting and meowing in pain. Your vet may discover a thickened bladder wall, and blockage of urine flow or urinary crystals. With prescribed medication and a change in the cat's diet, the infection should cease within 10 days. Your vet will conduct several urinalyses to monitor the presence of blood in the urine. A low-stress environment and the proper nutrition can help prevent urinary tract infections.

Feline kidney or renal failure involves the breakdown of the kidneys, which regulate blood and water levels, and filter and process waste. Chronic renal failure (CRF) stems from the gradual deterioration of the tiny units called nephrons , which process waste and maintain hydration. Some experts believe CRF is caused by poor-quality nutrition. Because it occurs gradually, cats may show no signs for years. By time they exhibit symptoms, damage is usually irreversible. Extreme thirst and frequent urination are among the signs of CRF, along with drooling, dehydration, weight loss and bad breath. Although CRF is incurable and progressive, a cat can be kept comfortable with dietary changes supervised by your vet, along with IV fluids and specific medications.
Acute renal failure occurs quickly, usually from accidental ingestion of antifreeze, or illnesses that affect the kidney area. Symptoms include straining to urinate, lack of coordination, vomiting, not eating, seizures and bad breath. Immediate vet attention is needed. Removing the toxins and restoring the electrolyte balance is the first step, and full recovery depends on the severity of kidney damage.

What are the symptoms of feline diabetes?

What are the symptoms of feline diabetes?

More CatsCat Breed Selector, Feline Fact Puzzles, Match the Cats, Kitten's First Year, Ginger's Hidden Adventure Game

You might want to be a fat cat, but you sure don't want your feline to become one. There are a many reasons to keep your cat at a healthy weight, but avoiding feline diabetes may be the biggest.

Feline diabetes, or diabetes mellitus, is a common disease often found in older and overweight cats. Similar to diabetes in humans, feline diabetes occurs when there is not enough insulin (a hormone made in the pancreas) in the cat's body to balance out the glucose (sugar) in the cat's diet. In normal cats, food is broken down during digestion and the resulting glucose enters the bloodstream. Insulin is then released to regulate the blood's glucose levels. If your cat isn't producing enough -- or any -- insulin, he will become diabetic. And if too much glucose builds up in his body due to the lack of insulin, the disease can become dangerous and even life threatening.

So what symptoms should you look for? Begin by monitoring your cat more closely, especially if he's older or is overweight. Have you observed him drinking or eating a lot more than usual? Take note if his water bowl goes dry or his food dish empties faster than it used to -- especially if he's eating more and still losing weight. Another symptom to watch for is unusually frequent urination. All of these are key signs that his glucose levels are going unregulated -- the lack of insulin is preventing his cells from absorbing and getting energy from glucose, and the resulting excess glucose in his blood is making him thirsty. If you observe these symptoms, make an appointment to see your vet. She can run a laboratory test to check how much sugar is in his blood or urine and make a diagnosis.

According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, about 50 to75 percent of cats with diabetes need to receive insulin injections, and some may also be prescribed pills to help regulate their glucose levels. Crucial to the treatment of diabetes is revisiting your cat's diet. You'll need to work with your vet to change and watch his diet, feeding him smaller portions of foods specially designed to help his body handle sugar. Monitoring his food and water intake, waste output and weight will be important in making sure his diabetes is properly treated. Some trial and error might be necessary in finding the best treatment for him, so call your vet right away if your cat's symptoms return.

Although there isn't a cure for diabetes, some cats -- even after just a few months -- will stop needing insulin. This is most common in overweight cats that lose their extra weight -- the cat's pancreas can once again supply the amount of insulin his body needs. 

Diabetes is a challenging disease to deal with, and it's best prevented by keeping your cat at a healthy weight. However, with good monitoring and care a cat with diabetes can live a long, happy life.

What common plants are poisonous to cats?

What common plants are poisonous to cats?

More CatsCat Breed Selector, Feline Fact Puzzles, Match the Cats, Kitten's First Year, Ginger's Hidden Adventure Game

Here's a riddle for you and your cat. What's mostly green, grows in a decorative pot and looks great on the coffee table? You say, "Houseplant." Your cat says, "Dinner!"

Indeed, Tina Wismer, DVM, medical director of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center, says one of the most common calls to the center concerns a cat making a meal of a houseplant or some flowers. In the wild, cats probably ate plants and flowers as a source of fiber, so if your cat licks his lips at the sight of a potted plant, he may be responding to this genetic predisposition. Unfortunately, the wrong bite can include more than fiber for your feline.

Many plants are toxic to cats, and reactions can vary from mild irritation of the mouth and gums to vomiting, seizures and even death. This doesn't mean you have to strip your house of all greenery. You just need to be aware of the plants that can harm your cat.

 

 Particularly Poisonous Plants

Some plants are more toxic than others, and Dr. Wismer suggests that cat owners be particularly aware of the dangers associated with these common houseplants.

- Lillies (Lilium spp). Although the toxin involved has not been identified, one bite of a leaf or a taste of the pollen from a plant in the lily family can cause lethargy and vomiting within 12 hours of ingestion. If not treated, your cat may go into kidney failure.

- Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta). Once exclusively an outdoor plant, the sago palm has recently begun making an appearance on windowsills and coffee tables. The entire plant is poisonous to cats, but the seed pod, sometimes called the nut, contains the greatest amount of toxin. Just a few nibbles can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even seizures. If left untreated, cats can experience liver failure.

- Calcium Oxalate plants. These include dieffenbachia, philodendrons and Chinese evergreens to name just a few. Insoluble calcium oxalate, microscopic crystals that look like needles, is present throughout these plants. One bite and the needle-like crystals shoot into a cat's gums and tongue. Symptoms include drooling and vomiting. To reduce irritation, give your cat milk or other calcium-containing substances, such as ice cream or yogurt. If enough mouth swelling occurs, breathing could become difficult, but this is rare.

- Dracaena. Over 40 species are included in this family of popular houseplants, including the red-edged Dracaena, the dragon plant, and the Dracaena Janet Craig. Cats that eat the long, skinny fronds that are typical in the Dracaena plant family will vomit, sometimes with blood, become depressed and lose their appetites. Kittens can get a little wobbly and appear to be drunk. Luckily, these plants are not usually lethal and symptoms should disappear in 12 to 24 hours.

If your cat decides a houseplant is put to much better use as food than as decoration, your first step should be to call your vet. She will want to know what plant ended up in your cat's stomach. Use a smartphone or digital camera to take a close-up picture of the plant and email it to your veterinarian for identification. If you're not sure which plant your cat has gotten into, get your pet to your vet as quickly as possible so that the vet can observe any symptoms for clues.

If the plant is toxic, your vet may suggest inducing vomiting at home or giving your cat activated charcoal capsules. Activated charcoal, which can be purchased at a pharmacy, binds to toxins while still in the stomach, preventing absorption into the blood stream.

It's a good idea to have activated charcoal on hand for emergencies, but Dr. Wismer warns never to attempt any home remedy without contacting your veterinarian first. Making a cat vomit or swallow pills can be tricky, and activated charcoal capsules are not as concentrated as the liquid version used by veterinarians. Getting to the vet should be your priority. If something as toxic as a lily is ingested, expect your cat to be placed on intravenous fluids for a couple of days to flush out the toxins.

The ASPCA's Web site has a comprehensive list of toxic and non-toxic plants. The center is also staffed with veterinarians available to answer questions if you suspect your cat has ingested a poisonous substance. The 24-hour emergency poison hotline number is 1-888-426-4435. A fee is required but may be well worth it for your peace of mind or your cat's life.

What does it mean when your cat licks you?

What does it mean when your cat licks you?

 

More Cats Cat Breed Selector, Feline Fact Puzzles, Match the Cats, Kitten's First Year, Ginger's Hidden Adventure Game

Dogs may lick our faces -- remember Lucy from "Peanuts" exclaiming, "Aaack, dog germs!" after a kiss from exuberant beagle Snoopy? -- but cats are more refined in their public displays of affection. When your cat licks you, usually after a mock-bite or firm grab with his paws, she's doing what her mother did during the early weeks of her life: providing a good cleaning that also speaks of caring and belonging. You've seen cats licking each other, helping in the grooming ritual, especially around the hard-to-reach ears and top of the head. But why is Kitty inspired to lick your arm or toes -- or even your hair? Here's what we've discovered.

Territorial Rights

Being licked is the first tactile experience your cat remembers -- that washcloth feeling of her mama cat's tongue thoroughly rubbing her coat, ears and every part of her little body. A mother cat initially washes her babies to remove the afterbirth fluids and to stimulate the kittens' breathing. She'll also clean them whenever they return to the nest, firmly re-establishing her scent on them. For cats both male and female, licking is a social exchange as well as a rite of cleanliness. Cats groom each other to remove debris and share scents, just as cats scratch in a favorite place where the scent glands of their paw pads will mark the territory as their own. When your cat licks you, she's cleaning you up and claiming you -- just as she would for a feline friend or litter mate.

What Licking Feels Like to a Cat

Some experts believe that orphaned kittens or those weaned too early from their mothers and litter mates develop oral behaviors such as suckling and licking, and exhibit these babyish habits into adulthood. But as with so much about cats, that's a generalization. The favorite hobby of Kelsey, a 6-year-old tabby who shares a household with her mother cat, is washing people -- and Kelsey's mother still scrubs her every day. Licking is a comforting, soothing sensation to cats, and feels like the gentle stroking of your hands petting them. If a cat licks you, she's returning that favor: She figures, who wouldn't enjoy being petted and assured of affection?

Excessive Licking

If an older cat who's never shown such affection suddenly begins licking you or suckling at your clothing, pay close attention to this change in behavior. Cats that start vigorously licking themselves may be seeking relief from a skin irritation, fleas, an insect bite or an infection. Help soothe Kitty by examining her skin and fur for problems, and ask your vet to recommend the right treatment.
If your cat's licking is not linked to illness and you simply cannot tolerate the ticklish feeling of her tongue, do not punish her for this normal behavior. Try gently discouraging your cat by moving away from her when she starts licking. Spritz your arms or hand with lemon juice, an immediate feline turn-off. Offer her a stuffed terrycloth toy to lavish her affection on instead, or just turn the tables and pet her lavishly, assuring her that you love her even if you don't like the licking.

Choose a low-carb diet

Choose a low-carb diet

If you want to lose weight you should start by avoiding sugar and starch (like bread). This is an old idea: For 150 years or more there have been an infinite number of weight-loss diets based on eating less carbs. What’s new is that dozens of modern scientific studies have proven that, yes, low carb is the most effective way to lose weight.

Obviously it’s still possible to lose weight on any diet – just eat less calories than you burn, right? The problem with this simplistic advice is that it ignores the elephant in the room: Hunger. Most people don’t like to “just eat less”, i.e. being hungry forever. That’s dieting for masochists. Sooner or later a normal person will give up and eat, hence the prevalence of “yo-yo dieting”.

The main advantage of low carb diets is that they cause you to want to eat less. Even without counting calories most overweight people eat far fewer calories on low carb. Sugar and starch may increase your hunger, avoiding it may decrease your appetite to an adequate level. If your body wants to eat an appropriate number of calories you don’t need to bother counting them. Thus: Calories count, but you don’t need to count them.

A 2012 study also showed that people on a low carb diet burned 300 more calories a day – while resting! According to one of the Harvard professors behind the study this advantage “would equal the number of calories typically burned in an hour of moderate-intensity physical activity”. Imagine that: an entire bonus hour of exercise every day, without actually doing it

2. Eat When Hungry

2. Eat When Hungry

 

Don’t be hungry. The most common mistake when starting a low carb diet: Reducing carb intake while still being afraid of fat. The problem is that carbs and fat are the body’s two main energy sources. It needs at least one.

Low carb AND low fat = starvation

Avoiding both carbs and fat results in hunger, cravings and fatigue. Sooner or later people can’t stand it and give up. The solution is to eat more natural fat until you feel satisfied. For example:

• Butter
• Full-fat cream
• Olive oil
• Meat (including the fat)
• Fatty fish
• Bacon
• Eggs
• Coconut oil, etc.

Always eat enough, so that you feel satisfied, especially in the beginning of the weight-loss process. Doing this on a low carb diet means that the fat you eat will be burned as fuel by your body, as your levels of the fat storing hormone insulin will be lowered. You’ll become a fat burning machine. You’ll lose excess weight without hunger.

Do you still fear saturated fat? Don’t. The fear of saturated fat is based on obsolete theories that have been proven incorrect by modern science. Butter is a fine food. However, feel free to eat mostly unsaturated fat (e.g. olive oil, avocado, fatty fish) if you prefer. This could be called a Mediterranean low carb diet and works great too.

Eating when hungry also implies something else: If you’re not hungry you probably don’t need to eat yet. When on a LCHF diet you can trust your feelings of hunger and satiety again. Feel free to eat as many times per day that works best for you.

Some people eat three times a day and occasionally snack in between (note that frequent snacking could mean that you’d benefit from adding fat to your meals, to increase satiety). Some people only eat once or twice a day and never snack. Whatever works for you. Just eat when you’re hungry.

Eat real food

Eat real food

 

Another common mistake when eating a low-carb diet is getting fooled by the creative marketing of special “low carb” products.

Remember:  An effective low carb diet for weight loss should be based on real food, like this:

Real food is what humans have been eating for thousands or (even better) millions of years, e.g. meat, fish, vegetables, eggs, butter, olive oil, nuts etc.

If you want to lose weight you’d better avoid special “low carb” products that are full of carbs. This should be obvious but creative marketers are doing all they can to fool you (and get your money). They will tell you that you can eat cookies, pasta, ice cream, bread and plenty of chocolate on a low carb diet, as long as you buy their brand. They’re full of carbohydrates. Don’t be fooled.

How about low-carb bread? Be careful: if it’s baked with grains it’s certainly not low carb. But some companies still try to sell it to you as a low-carb option.

Low-carb chocolate is usually full of sugar alcohols, which the manufacturer does not count as carbs. But

roughly half of these carbs may be absorbed, raising blood sugar and insulin. The rest of the carbs ends up in the colon, potentially causing gas and diarrhea. Furthermore, any sweeteners can maintain sugar cravings.

Here are three fine examples of what to avoid:

1. Atkins’ Fairy Tale Cookies
2. Julian Bakery’s High Carb Low Carb Bread

3. The Dreamfields Pasta Fraud (that finally resulted in an 8 million dollar fine!)

These three companies are not unique. There are thousands of similar companies trying to trick you into buying their “low carb” junk food, full of starch, sugar alcohols, flour, sweeteners and strange additives. Two simple rules to avoid this junk:

• Don’t eat “low carb” versions of high carb stuff, like cookies, bars, chocolate, bread, pasta or ice cream – unless you are SURE of the ingredients (perhaps from making it yourself).
• Avoid products with the words “net carbs” on them. That’s usually just a way to fool you.

Focus on eating good quality, minimally processed real food. Ideally the food you buy shouldn’t even have a list of ingredients (or it should be very short).

How to get an App Store refund from Apple

 How to get an App Store refund from Apple

 Suppose, for example, you purchased an app by accident. It could happen; perhaps you thought you were getting the trial version, or you'd been considering a handful of different mileage-tracking apps and just plain bought the wrong one. More likely: One of the kids bought something without your permission.

There's also the possibility you bought an app and just plain hate it. Maybe a game looked really good on paper (or in screenshots) but turned out to be not your cup of tea.

Whatever the case, you can probably get your money back -- especially if you ask for it soon after making your purchase (as opposed to, say, weeks later). In other words, Apple seems willing to refund App Store "mistakes," at least based on a recent experience I had.

Just one problem: There's no obvious way to request that refund -- until you know where to look. Here's the fastest, easiest option:

Step 1: Open a Web browser and head to reportaproblem.apple.com.

Step 2: Sign into your iTunes account with your regular username and password.

Step 3: Find the app in question, then click the Report a Problem button alongside it.

Step 4: Click the Choose Problem pull-down and select the option that most closely matches your issue. Provide a brief description of why you're seeking a refund, then click Submit.

And that's it! In my case -- "Didn't mean to purchase this item," which was absolutely true -- the request was accepted immediately, and my refund was processed roughly 36 hours later.

Needless to say, you shouldn't abuse this system, shouldn't use this as a way to try an app that doesn't have a trial version. I suspect that if you go to this refund well too often, Apple may start to refuse your requests.

I should also mention that the Report a Problem option isn't just for apps; it's available for just about anything you buy from iTunes: music, movies, books and so on. Just keep in mind, "I didn't like that movie, it was terrible" isn't a valid (or available) reason for a refund.

---

Smartwatch For build quality: Tag Heuer Connected

Smartwatch For build quality: Tag Heuer Connected

The Tag Heuer Connected is now official and while it doesn't boast the 'Swiss Made' tag of its mechanical brethren, it's by far the best example of watch craftsmanship in the Android Wear world. The build is incredibly high quality; the case, lugs and back are all made from grade 2 titanium. The display is 46mm in diameter and it's covered in crystal sapphire.

Also, you don't need to worry that your expensive smartwatch will be useless in a couple of years – at the end of the 2-year warranty period, you can use it to trade in for a mechanical Tag Heuer watch.

Apple may offer three versions of iPhone 7

Apple may offer three versions of iPhone 7

 

Apple may introduce a third variant of the iPhone 7 this year.

The company has already begun production of its 2016 iPhone lineup, tech blog site Mobipicker said Monday, citing information from an anonymous source.

A screenshot shared by the tipster showed three iPhone models slated for this year: an iPhone 7, an iPhone 7 Plus and an iPhone 7 Pro or Plus Premium. Apple device makers Foxconn and Pegatron have reportedly bumped up staff to handle all three versions, the source told Mobipicker.

Last year's iPhone 6S and 6S Plus apparently didn't offer enough exciting new features to sway consumers to upgrade, leading Apple to report its first decline in iPhone sales. To regain lost sales and compete with rivals such as Samsung, Apple needs to shake up the iPhone 7 lineup with some innovation that can lure in buyers searching for a new phone.

Rumors have already floated that Apple would outfit one of its next iPhones with dual cameras, but that feature may only be added to the iPhone 7 Plus, with the regular iPhone 7 continuing with a single camera. If you add a third variant to the mix, it's anyone's guess as to which features each of the three models would carry.

Other reports have suggested that this year's iPhone would sport stereo speakers, jettison the traditional audio port and offer a rear camera that is flush with the phone's surface. However, the feeling among certain analysts, such as KGI Securities Ming-Chi Kuo, is that the iPhone 7 won't offer the necessary must-have features to captivate smartphone buyers.

Instead, Apple may be saving a major upgrade to its iPhone lineup for 2017. Next year will mark the 10th anniversary of the iPhone, at which point Apple may outfit the new model with an edge-to-edge display and remove the physical home button.

But with Apple in a sales slump, the company still needs to come up with something enticing this year.

Watch any YouTube video in VR mode

Watch any YouTube video in VR mode

 

YouTube is home to several zillion videos, but until recently, only Android users could take advantage of Cardboard mode -- a split-screen view designed for use with Google Cardboard and other VR headsets.

That changed today with the release of YouTube 11.18 for iOS, which adds support for Google Cardboard. Now anything on YouTube can be viewed in VR mode -- even if it's not a VR or 360 video.

This bears a bit of explanation, starting with how you actually activate the setting:

Step 1: Open the YouTube app and start playing any video. (Might I recommend something from CNET, or perhaps this episode of "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee"?)

Step 2: Tap the three-dot "More" icon in the upper-right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Tap Cardboard, then insert your phone into your VR headset.
Presto! Assuming it's an ordinary video, Cardboard mode effectively gives you the equivalent of movie-theater viewing.
However, if you head to YouTube's 360 Videos channel, you'll find a huge collection of clips that really take advantage of Cardboard mode. That's because they were shot in 360 degrees, which is where the whole VR thing really starts to shine.
In fact, these videos are so VR-ready they have a Cardboard icon right on the main screen; no need to venture into the More menu.
This is just the latest step in Google's increased support for iPhone VR. Back in March, the company introduced a Cardboard-oriented SDK designed to make it easier for software developers to integrate 360-degree video.
Meanwhile, Google's I/O conference kicks off Wednesday, and if the scheduled VR at Google session is any indication, there's more VR news to come. (My prediction: "Google Cardboard" gives way to a bigger, broader "Google VR" branding.)

3 How to track your mileage by 3 apps

3 How to track your mileage by 3 apps

Going for a drive? If it has something to do with business, you might be able to get a deduction come tax-time, or a reimbursement from your employer. Indeed, business owners and the self-employed alike have long known the value of keeping track of their mileage.

They've also known the hassles. Assuming you actually remember to manually log the details of each and every drive, it takes time to record the date, destination, miles traveled and all that. Plus, will that log be properly formatted for IRS and/or reimbursement purposes?

Apps to the rescue! Thanks to your phone's built-in GPS, mileage-tracking apps can automatically detect when you go for a drive, then save and classify that drive. At the end of the year (or sooner, as needed), the app will crank out an IRS-friendly report, thus ensuring you receive all the mileage credit you're entitled to.

Not bad, right? There are just two things to consider when deploying a mileage tracker: How much it's going to cost you, and how big an impact it's going to have on your battery.

For example, some trackers charge a monthly or annual fee, while others have an up-front cost. Fortunately, even the priciest services can pay for themselves pretty easily if you log a lot of miles, as you'll be recording (and getting credit for) trips you might otherwise have missed.

As for the battery issue, these apps work their automatic drive-detection magic by keeping your GPS active at all times, which can definitely affect battery life.

Below I've rounded up three popular mileage trackers, all focused on the same goal, all very different in terms of pricing, features, interface, etc. These are by no means the only options, but they're representative of what's available.

Mileage Expense Log (iOS)

Enlarge Image

Mileage Expense Log requires a bit more manual intervention than other apps, and its interface is pretty spartan. Screenshot by Rick Broida/CNET

Available exclusively for iOS, Mileage Expense Log is one of the most affordable trackers you can get. Although there's a free version, trust me when I say you should buy the Pro version -- which costs all of $3.99.
That's a one-time price that buys you freedom from some seriously intrusive advertising. Just as important, it enables automatic trip tracking, though the implementation here is a bit confusing.
So is the interface, which starts off with a blank summary (blank because you haven't recorded any drives yet) and no clear indication of what you're supposed to do. Tap the "+", however, and you'll see fields for recording your first trip: vehicle, destination, purpose, etc.
From here you can choose Auto Track or Odometer, the latter if you prefer to manually log your mileage. But the former includes Start and Stop buttons, which would seem to challenge the idea of automatic tracking.
Once you figure out the interface, however, MEL works well enough. It can sync your data to iCloud or Dropbox, and it's even Apple Watch-compatible. Just take note that its export options are limited to HTML and CSV.

MileIQ (Android, iOS)

If you prize a slick, intuitive interface and don't mind paying a premium, MileIQ is the best mileage tracker. MileIQ

MileIQ (Android, iOS) is by far the most expensive option in this little roundup, but it's also one of the most polished and easy-to-use apps I've tried.
The ease-of-use part goes like this: For every drive MileIQ records -- and it does this with effortless automation -- you swipe left if it's personal or right if it's business. (It's like Tinder for trips!) From there you can get more granular about drive organization (like classifying different purposes), but ultimately it's the lightning-quick categorization that makes life really easy. And the app keeps a running tally of how much your business-related drives are worth (based on 2016 IRS deduction rates), which is neat.
You can also specify work hours so that MileIQ isn't automatically trying to classify drives outside those hours. Alas, automatic drive-detection (which does affect battery life) can't be scheduled accordingly. But it does offer robust exporting options and integration with tools like Concur and Freshbooks.
The app costs $5.99 per month or $59.99 annually, a price that includes tracking for an unlimited number of drives. There's also a free option, but it limits you to 40 drives per month -- probably not enough if you use your vehicle for both business and personal trips.

TripLog (Android, iOS)

TripLog offers a robust feature set that matches -- and in some cases even exceeds -- MileIQ's, but for a lower price. In fact, you can use the app for free for up to five vehicles, complete with manual or GPS-based trip logging, vehicle fuel- and expense-tracking and map-based route review.

So if you've enabled auto-start, do you still have to tap "Start GPS Tracking" and "Stop GPS Tracking"? It's a little confusing. BizLog, LLC

To really get the most from it, though, you'll want to upgrade to either the Personal or Business plan, which cost $1.50/month ($15 annually) and $2.50/month ($25 annually). Those options add support for things like automated mileage tracking and cloud backup, receipt photos (for things like gas expenses) and unlimited IRS-ready reports.
The automated mileage tracking is more comprehensive here than in either of the other apps, at least in terms of how it engages. It can start when power is connected to the phone (think: car charger), when a Bluetooth connection is made (think: car stereo), during a selected time period or when it detects sustained movement above 4 mph. You even have the option of syncing with a Bluetooth OBD-II scanner, which would eliminate the need to use battery-draining GPS.
I can't say the interface is anywhere near as polished or intuitive as MileIQ's, but for less than half the annual price, you get a very versatile, feature-rich mileage-tracking tool.
Have you tried any other mileage trackers? If so, how did they rate? Hit the comments and share your review!

iPhone app can alert you if your device gets hacked

iPhone app can alert you if your device gets hacked

 Worried that your iPhone may have been hacked? There's an app for that.System and Security Info, which debuted over the weekend in Apple's App Store, provides a host of details about your iPhone. The app shows your CPU, memory and disk usage as well as a list of all running processes. On the security front, it can tell you if your device has been compromised or possibly infected by any malware.

Much of the information in the app is basic and easy to understand. A green light next to a specific item is good, as it means you're in the clear. A red light means there could be a potential security issue.

The app will also let you know if the device has been jailbroken, which is key if you've bought the phone used or have lent it to someone. A jailbroken device is one that has been modified to allow the installation of apps beyond those in the App Store. Jailbroken devices, though, are more susceptible to malware because their owners can install apps that bypass Apple's intense scrutiny.

Apple, Google and other software makers are constantly fighting to prevent malware-ridden apps from invading their respective app stores and devices. Apple's iOS operating system has generally been considered more secure than Google's Android because Apple offers a tighter vetting process to approve apps. But certain malware strains have infected Apple devices, even those that have not been jailbroken.

System and Security Info was developed by Stefan Esser, a German security researcher and iOS hacker who has in the past cooked up jailbreaks for various versions of iOS. With the new app, Esser said he "wanted to provide the public with a low cost solution that allows to find out if someone used one of the public jailbreak or a customized version to hack and backdoor your device." The app also determines if the programming code in iOS has been digitally signed by Apple itself to confirm that it not be altered by an outside party.

My iPhone received a clean bill of health, according to the app, meaning no jailbreaks or compromises. The only red flag came up under anomalies, which found injected libraries. However, Esser pointed to that as normal, saying that "because the accessibility features of iOS will inject unexpected libraries into our process, the app will mention this as a detected anomaly."

Esser promised a series of upcoming blog posts to further explain how the app works and what it means if it detects any issues on your iPhone.

Smartwaches Best for outdoor pursuits: Casio WSD-F10

 Smartwaches Best for outdoor pursuits: Casio WSD-F10

 

 

Casio's Smart Outdoor Watch landed at CES and is a million miles from another me-too everyday watch. Designed for outdoorsy types who are looking for a waterproof (50m), shockproof and vibration proof wearable that's certified to US military standards (MIL-STD0810).

The 1.32-inch LCD touchscreen has an interesting twist. There's a second monochrome display that can be used instead of the colour panel; instead of the single day usage from the main screen, using the monochrome screen boosts battery life to a month.

Forget trying to marry this with your work attire, you wouldn't even be able to get it under your jacket cuff, let alone your shirt. It's not uncomfortable though; it's much lighter than you'd think and the chunky rubber strap provides a secure fit.

Disco The Parakeet Was A Little Bored, So He Basically Said Every Phrase He Knew

Disco The Parakeet Was A Little Bored, So He Basically Said Every Phrase He Knew

 

The common parakeet, or budgie, has an incredible ability to mimic human language. From the loving things we say to each other to the swear-filled tirades that should never be repeated, they can retain an awful lot. Yet for all their talking, we never really knew just how vast their vocabularies could be until we heard Disco the Parakeet.

What he says in his cage while bored one day is entirely fascinating to overhear!

Watch Video

Grocery Store vs. Specialty Foods

 

Grocery Store vs. Specialty Food

 

Many people consider their pets full-fledged family members -- and also treat them as such. So for those who subscribe to the theory, "You are what you eat," what ends up in your pet's food dish can be just as important as what you put on your own plate. As is the case with people food, the choices for pet food are seemingly endless, not just in terms of what type to buy, but which company makes it and what store to buy it from. When comparing labels, you may wonder: Are specialty brands really more beneficial than the more commonly known brands available from regular grocery stores?
First off, it may help to understand who's making the foods your pet eats. Many of the main players in the pet food industry actually oversee numerous labels. For example, Nestl? acquired Purina and formed Nestl? Purina Petcare Company, which includes brands such as Fancy Feast, Alpo, Friskies and Puppy Chow. Del Monte bought Heinz, and with it came a number of brands including MeowMix, 9Lives and Kibbles 'n Bits. Even conglomerates not predominately known for being players in the pet food arena have gotten involved, like Procter and Gamble (or P&G), which took over the Iams Company in 1999.
Some of these companies, however, don't actually create the food sold under the brand name, but rather farm out production to co-packers such as Menu Foods. There are also private labelers who make house brands for stores such as Wal-Mart and Kroger. Specialty pet food manufacturers (such as Nature's Variety or iVet), on the other hand, tend to create products for just one brand, or maybe a few at most -- though some of the major brands create offshoots meant to look and sound like a specialty brand (such as Nature's Recipe, which is made by Del Monte).

Decoding Labels
In terms of availability and costs, supermarkets and warehouse clubs usually carry the mainstream labels, which can also prove to be more affordable in terms of price per unit. Niche or specialty brands are often available only through individually owned pet supply stores or veterinarian's offices. These varieties are frequently promoted for their natural, organic or premium ingredients and can cost more, but many pet owners seem to have no problem paying a higher price. In fact, according to market research firm Packaged Facts, the natural pet food market has more than doubled since 2005 and is expected to continue to grow over the next few years.
But does a paying more mean you're getting anything better content-wise? Maybe -- it all depends on what the product is called and what's in it. While the pet food industry does not face the same stringent regulations as the people food industry, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) does set standards for labeling requirements -- including definitions of specific terms and rules for when they can and can't be used. (Their guidelines are available on the AAFCO website.)
Even so, the use of by-products and fillers in pet food is very common -- though it's more prevalent among commercial brands, according to a report released by the Animal Protection Institute (API). There are also many companies who package and market their food to look more appealing to those interested in organic content, regardless of whether that's what's actually used. In fact, AAFCO standards for use of the word "natural" are very broad and can sometimes include artificially processed ingredients. The word "organic" has much stricter legal definitions covered by the USDA National Organic Program, but some companies try to circumvent this by incorporating the word into the actual brand name, so be careful of these distinctions.
Making Your Choice
Both grocery store and specialty food manufacturers make kibble and canned food. However, specialty manufacturers have also branched out into the raw pet foods market, which usually comes frozen and is then defrosted to room temperature before serving. There's yet to be a widespread consensus among professionals as to which type -- grocery store or specialty -- offers more benefits.
So, which type of food should you choose for your pet? While specialty foods often include better quality ingredients, the API acknowledges that there are safe and nutritious commercial brands on the market as well -- especially those that are marked with the AAFCO guarantee and don't use by-products. The best thing to do is get educated about who is really behind the production of the food you're buying, read labels and contents thoroughly, and also make to sure to check the status of any current or recent pet food recalls. Your pet's health could be a factor in your decision, too, if you have an animal that requires a special diet as advised by your vet. Whether you ultimately decide to set down a chunk of change for a seemingly fancy brand, or try to save a buck or two on a more mainstream option, the same shopping rules should apply to help ensure happy and healthy meals for your pet.

What causes cats to fall over repeatedly?

What causes cats to fall over repeatedly?

 

More Cats Cat Breed Selector, Feline Fact Puzzles, Match the Cats, Kitten's First Year, Ginger's Hidden Adventure Game

A cat wobbling around in circles or flopping on its side may seem funny to some, who might wonder if the cat had a little too much to drink. But a falling-down cat is no joke. It's not alcohol -- which can be fatal to cats. His problem could be an inner ear infection or a genetic, neurological or nerve disorder. If that's your cat, here's what you need to know to help your feline friend:

Why Cats Fall Over

A feline that falls over, moves with a stiff-legged gait, wobbles as he walks, or bobs his head repeatedly may be suffering from a condition akin to cerebral palsy in humans. Cerebellar hypoplasia is a disease of the cerebellum, the brain part that controls movement and coordination. Kittens can be born with this condition if their mothers were exposed to distemper while pregnant, causing damage or underdevelopment to the cerebellum. Malnutrition or poisoning can also cause this illness.
Cats may also fall over and move in circles if they suffer from ataxia --sometimes called wobbly kitten syndrome, a sensory dysfunction that affects the limbs, balance, and in some cases, the cat's head and neck. Cats with ataxia may sway, have trouble hearing and appear drowsy. Possible causes include neurological problems, cancer, viral or fungal infection and trauma. An inner ear infection could also cause ataxia.

Coping With a Falling Cat

If your cat is falling over, be sure to keep him indoors and safe from household hazards, such as stairs. Consult your veterinarian right away to determine exactly what's going on. Provide details on when the problem began and any other changes in your cat's behavior. Recall any incidents that may have preceded or led to the falling-down behavior. If you recently adopted the cat, get a record of his medical history from the shelter or rescue group. If this affects a kitten, find out what you can about the mother cat's prenatal history, such as whether she was current on her FVRCP vaccinations (given against three contagious diseases affecting cats).

After examining your cat and reviewing its medical history, your vet will order an array of tests. Chest and/or abdominal X-rays, a blood count and blood profile, urinalysis, and possibly an ultrasound or MRI, will help determine the illness, as well as rule out other possible ailments such as kidney disease, anemia, an electrolyte imbalance, or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). With test results in hand, the vet will explain what is happening in your cat's body.

Cures for the Falling Cat

For your cat, the inability to control its movements can be frustrating as well as painful. However, there is relief in some cases. If the ataxia is caused by an inner ear infection, it can be treated and cured with medication and nutritional supplements. However, ataxia that is genetic and neurological in nature can't be cured. There is also no specific treatment available to alleviate the cat's distress. The sight of your pet's lack of control may be frightening and cause you to feel helpless. Your vet can help you determine any symptomatic treatments that can help reduce the cat's pain.
There is no cure for cerebellar hypoplasia, but cats afflicted with it aren't in any pain or discomfort.

Living With a Cat That Falls

A cat with cerebellar hypoplasia will always need extra TLC and attention, to keep him safe from situations where his lack of balance can cause him to fall or injure himself. His quality of life may be diminished, but the disease isn't degenerative, and his condition will not worsen as he ages. He can learn to compensate for his inability to control his limbs, and lead a tranquil, happy life.
A cat with ataxia should have his movements curtailed, especially if your vet diagnoses spinal cord disease. Cats that are accustomed to climbing or going outdoors could easily fall and suffer a severe injury. You'll have to closely monitor his gait and condition. If his walk becomes increasingly imbalanced, or he shows other signs of weakness, consult your vet at once.
Cats with either cerebellar hypoplasia or ataxia should always be kept indoors.

The Hairworm Is The Biggest NOPE Known To Man -- It's Worse Than Snakes And Spiders

The Hairworm Is The Biggest NOPE Known To Man -- It's Worse Than Snakes And Spiders

Nature has plenty of creepy-crawly awfulness to offer. If you've read a few of the articles on this site lately, you're probably very familiar with how terrifying this planet (and all of the creatures living on it) can be.

Well, allow me to take that to a whole new level for you. I'd like to introduce you to my good friend, the hairworm.

The hairworm is a nasty little parasite that infects grasshoppers. The larvae develop inside their buggy hosts, and once they reach maturity, they seize control of the insects' brains and force them to jump into bodies of water

Watch Video

India claims to have tool to defeat iPhone encryption

India claims to have tool to defeat iPhone encryption

 

India allegedly has a secret technology to decrypt iPhones.

Ravi Shankar Prasad, India's communications and IT minister, said Friday that a tool for mobile forensics has been developed that can handle smartphones, including Apple's iPhone, according to the New Indian Express. Prasad didn't reveal details about how the tool works.

Earlier this year, the iPhone was at the center of a legal battle between Apple and the FBI. The government wanted Apple to help access a locked iPhone 5C used by one of two terrorists involved in a December attack in San Bernardino, California, that left 14 people dead. Apple denied the government's request, even when faced with a court order. The showdown ended in late March when the feds bought a tool from a third party to bypass the phone's security.

Tech firms say that weakening encryption, which scrambles data so it can be read only by the intended person, violates the privacy of device owners. Law enforcement officials counter that encryption hinders their ability to access data in criminal investigations.

In 2010, BlackBerry ran into trouble in India and other countries that insisted on gaining access to encrypted customer data stored on the company's servers. BlackBerry argued that it did not possess the encryption keys and thus could not provide access to the data.

5 ways to seriously cut back on iPhone data usage

5 ways to seriously cut back on iPhone data usage

 

Stopping five data-hungry apps from killing your data plan isn't the only way for iPhone owners to reduce their data usage. There are five phone-wide settings that can help keep you under your monthly data allotment.

1. Disable cellular app updates.

If your apps update automatically, make sure they do so only when you are on WiFi. Go to Settings > iTunes & App Stores and turn off Use Cellular Data.

2. Disable background app refresh.

iOS apps can update in the background, grabbing new content as they sit idle so they can show you the latest news when you return to them. Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and you can turn this setting off completely or go the a la carte route from the list below and choose which apps update in the background.

3. Disable Wi-Fi Assist.

Wi-Fi Assist is a great feature where your iPhone hands off a weak Wi-Fi signal to your cellular network to prevent pages from loading slowly or not at all as it clings to the last remnants of a Wi-Fi signal. If you sit on the edge of a Wi-Fi network at work, say, then your cellular network may be assisting more than you'd like and running up data charges.

To disable Wi-Fi Assist, go to Settings > Cellular and scroll all the way to the bottom to turn off Wi-Fi Assist.

4. Disable iCloud Drive on cellular.

If you use iCloud Drive to shuttle documents in and out of the cloud, those data transfers can add to your bill if they are done over a cellular connection. You can restrict iCloud Drive to Wi-Fi only by going to Settings > iCloud > iCloud Drive and scrolling to the bottom and turning off Use Cellular Data.

5. Download music, don't stream.

Streaming music or podcasts for long stretches when you are away from Wi-Fi can quickly add to your data usage. Most music and podcast apps (like Spotify and Apple Music) let you restrict streaming to Wi-Fi only, which will then force you into the habit of downloading playlists or podcasts before playing them instead of the easy route of simply streaming them. Let's look at Apple Music and Apple's Podcasts apps as examples.

For Apple Music, go to Settings > Music. In the Streaming & Downloads section, you'll see two settings if the first is enabled. The first, Use Cellular Data, lets you disable streaming via a cellular connection entirely. If that's too drastic a measure for you, then you can leave that setting enabled and turn off High Quality on Cellular to stream songs at a lower bitrate when you aren't on Wi-Fi.

For the Podcasts app, go to Settings > Podcasts and turn off Cellular Data. You can also enable Only Download on Wi-Fi to prevent podcast downloads from adding to your data usage.

iPhone Upgrade Program launches at online Apple Store

iPhone Upgrade Program launches at online Apple Store

 

If you want in on the iPhone Upgrade Program, you no longer have to travel to your local Apple Store.

The program, which launched last September at Apple's retail stores, expanded Monday to the company's online store. Apple's website now shows that you can take advantage of the program to upgrade to the iPhone 6S or iPhone 6S Plus from earlier models.

Through the upgrade program, you pay a monthly installment fee to purchase a new iPhone. After 12 months of payments, you can then upgrade to the latest iPhone by trading in your existing model, starting the same process with the new phone.

It's Apple's way to get in step with the mobile phone industry's move toward monthly payments and away from the older practice of subsidizing customers' phone purchases. With iPhone sales facing tough times, Apple's aim is to lock in customers who want the latest edition from year to year but want to avoid paying the full cost upfront.

The phones are unlocked, and you get to choose your carrier. Verizon, AT&T and Sprint all offer monthly installments. T-Mobile, however, requires you to pay the full price upfront.

The iPhone 6S starts at around $32 a month, while the 6S Plus starts at around $36. Apple also throws in for free its AppleCare+ service, a two-year protection plan that normally costs $99 for the latest iPhones