In the News

4 Ways To Avoid and Control Pet Obesity

by Jennifer | No Comments Tuesday, February 7, 2012

You’ve seen a multitude of information on the dangers of adult and child obesity, but pet obesity is a growing problem as well, featured here on CNN. Owners find that they have less and less time to care for their pets, and their health can decline. Now, I’m not at all saying anybody does it on purpose, or even to a large extent, but even the smallest changes can take a toll as life gets more and more hectic and demanding. Whether you have a cat, dog, or something more unique, the more time and effort you can give your furry (or not!) friend, the better for everyone. After all, they are a part of your already loving family!

1)Exercise

Commit a certain amount of time every day to playing with your pet. They need to stay active just as much as you do, and especially if they are alone most of the day can become lazy and lethargic. Some things to try are laser pointers, toys, (although, we all know some animals will always go for the rolled up ball of foil first!) or taking a walk if they can be leashed. For more information on playing with your pet, Check Out This Site From Petplace.com

2) Attention

If a pet feels neglected by you, it will be unhappy and its health will quickly follow suit, just like it would with humans. Spend as much time with your pet as possible, to show them they are loved and wanted.

3) Balanced Nutrition

Of course you want the best for your pet, but it can be hard to afford the absolute best. Consult your veterinarian to discuss the best diet for your budget, they can often point you in the right direction and tell you what you need to look for, as well as how much they should be eating and how often.

4) Regular Checkups

You should be taking your pet for a wellness checkup once a year, and immediately if there are any odd symptoms or behavior. If your pet is gaining weight and you honestly cannot figure out why, there could be a thyroid problem, or a number of other issues your vet can check for and help find a solution so that your pet can be in the best possible shape. And don’t be afraid to call with any questions, they are here to help! Need a veterinarian? This Database Will Help You Find One Close To You!

High Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Refined Sugar: What’s Really Going On?

by Jennifer | No Comments Thursday, March 31, 2011

Trying to sift through the truth and what we are expected to believe can be really hard, so here at Bit A Bliss we thought it’s time for you to get the rundown on what’s really going on with the big debate on which is better: High Fructose Corn Syrup or Refined Sugar.

In reality, the two are very similar. But the difference has shown a significant difference in how the body reacts to it. A study done by Princeton University concludes that in a lab study using rats, that every rat who consumed HFCS gained significantly more weight and had more health problems than those who had sugar, no matter what the overall diet consisted of. To read the full article, go to: http://www.princeton.edu/main/news/archive/S26/91/22K07/

On an opposing study, as described in sweetsurprise.com, says that the two sugars have the same calories, and is metabolized the same. And on top of that it is cheaper to produce, and also states that HFCS enhances flavors and upholds the integrity of the product.

So what are we supposed to believe? There are many out there who have shunned HFCS and will only buy products containing refined sugar, and there are others who see no problem with it. It can get a little confusing.

The conclusion that we have come up with, is that neither are really good for you in excess. In reality, EVERYTHING in the world, whether it is mineral, vegetable, meat, or even water is bad for you if you consume too much of it. So go ahead and enjoy that soda or candy bar, just don’t do it every day. Our nation is full of those who indulge in instant gratification, and we can be better than that. Given a little self control, and acknowledgement that poor dietary choices CAN and WILL have consequences, we can find that balance between what is good for us, and what feels good.

At Bit a Bliss we are dedicated to providing extraordinary maid service.  Everyone deserves a Bit a Bliss!  www.bitabliss.com

Keep the Lead Out Plano-Frisco

by Scarlette | No Comments Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Lead has been in the news quite a bit lately, with Exide Technologies as the focal point.  Exide Technologies operates a lead smelter just south of downtown Frisco.  Residents of Frisco and other surrounding cities such as Plano should be aware that this plant has some of the highest lead emissions in the country.

There are things you can do in your own home to help protect yourself and your family from lead exposure.  The recommendations below are from the EPA 

  • Clean floors, window frames, window sills, and other surfaces weekly. Use a mop, sponge, or paper towel with warm water and a general all-purpose cleaner or a cleaner made specifically for lead.
  • Cleaning dirty or dusty areas.
  • Wash children’s hands often, especially before they eat and before nap time and bed time.
  • Keep play areas clean. Wash bottles, pacifiers, toys, and stuffed animals regularly.
  • Clean or remove shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in lead from soil.
  • Make sure children eat healthy and nutritious meals as recommended by the National Dietary Guidelines. Children with good diets absorb less lead.

Safe Cleaning Products

by admin | No Comments Thursday, September 2, 2010

The second most common poisoning in children under 5 is from cleaning products, according to the 2008 report from the American Association of Poision Control Centers.

You can prevent this in your home by purchasing non-toxic cleaning products.  You can also mix up your own cleaners using vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice

Green Guides Changing

by admin | No Comments Friday, August 27, 2010

Within the next few weeks, the American public might notice a change in how they identify environmentally friendly, or “green,” products.

According to an Advertising Age article, the Federal Trade Commissioners is currently reviewing a new set of so-called Green Guides, which are used by the FTC to guide enforcement of existing laws. They are the first environmental-marketing guidelines in 12 years and could radically reshape how far marketers can go in painting their products, packaging or even corporate images green.

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