Almonds eliminate need for Nexium

Q. I am 68 and have taken antacids since I was 16. When the prescription drugs came out, I was delighted. I have taken everything from Tagamet to Nexium, which I have been on for the past four years. After reading about people having success with almonds, I tried it. I’m astounded at how effective this is. On my first try, I went for eight days without Nexium just by eating two or three almonds before meals. Now I need Nexium only after a spicy meal.

A. We don’t know why this seems to work, but we have heard from many readers that eating a few almonds right after a meal can ward off heartburn. Thanks for letting us know that the almonds may be eaten before the meal as well.

Q. I have hypothyroidism. I have read that soy products can make symptoms worse. I’ve seen other reports that soy is beneficial for women with thyroid disorders. I take my thyroid medicine 30 minutes before I eat or drink anything. Then I have soy milk and fiber with my cereal. Can I take thyroid medicine just before bedtime? Should I avoid soy? I hope you can clear up my confusion.

A. You are not the only one who is confused. Researchers have found that compounds in soy can inactivate an enzyme important for thyroid function (Environmental Health Perspectives, June 2002, Supplement 3). Ever since then, scientists have been arguing about the practical importance of this discovery. People low in iodine seem especially susceptible.

We are sending you our Guide to Thyroid Hormones. Anyone who would like a copy, send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (61 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. T-4, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded for $2 from our website: www.peoplespharmacy.com.

It’s smart to avoid fiber when you take your pill, as that might reduce its absorption. In fact, taking it in the evening at least a few hours after eating gives the best results (Clinical Endocrinology, January 2007).

Q. I have been fighting congestive heart failure since I had a serious heart attack 10 years ago. I saw a mention of the benefits of D-ribose for people with heart failure. I have found this supplement a lifesaver for me in my weakened condition. I take it spread out in equal doses after each meal. I also take L-carnitine and CoQ10 daily. This mix maintains my energy levels and general functioning. Despite an ejection fraction of 10 (normal is 55 to 70), I have a fairly normal lifestyle, including a 20-minute walk each day. I want other heart-failure patients to know about this if it would work for them. I have repeatedly told my cardiologist about D-ribose, but she gives me the usual response: “There is no valid research on this.” Do you know of any?

A. D-ribose is a kind of sugar that provides energy for cells. One study tested exercise capacity in heart-failure patients and found it improved with D-ribose supplementation (International Journal of Cardiology, September 2009).

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com.

2010 King Features Syndicate Inc.