I have received a number of questions in recent weeks and will be using this month’s columns to answer some of those questions.

17. Which is healthier, eating several small meals throughout the day or eating three meals a day?

1. The number of meals you eat is not as important as what you eat at those meals. The total number of calories and the type of fats you eat is what is most important. This is true with only a few exceptions. People with reflux disease may benefit from eating smaller, more frequent meals, as will those who have had stomach surgery. People who experience great swings in blood sugar also benefit from smaller, more frequent meals. Just remember that eating frequently during the day carries with it the risk of eating too much. Be sure your total calorie intake follows the Food Guide Pyramid and is within recommended calorie limits.

17. I have recently been diagnosed with calcium oxalate kidney stones. My doctor told me to avoid foods high in oxalate. What is oxalate and what foods are high in oxalate?

1. Calcium oxalate stones are the most common type of kidney stones. Oxalate is a naturally occurring substance in foods. The most important thing you can do to lower your risk of kidney stones is to drink lots of water. Drinking plenty of fluids helps dilute the urine making it less likely that stones will form. Information about the oxalate content of foods varies due to different methods of measuring it. But the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases recommends limiting the following oxalate-rich foods: beets, chocolate, coffee, cola, nuts, rhubarb, spinach, and strawberries.

17. What are trans fatty acids? I’ve heard so much about them but don’t know what they really are.

1. When unsaturated oils are processed to make them stable and solid at room temperature through a process called hydrogenation, trans fats are formed. Look at labels for hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated fats. Major food sources are usually margarine, commercial frying fats, and commercial baked and processed goods. Trans fats are also present in beef, butter, and milk fats. These fats contribute just like saturated fats to elevate LDL (the bad cholesterol). They may also lower HDL (the good cholesterol). Decreasing your intake of hydrogenated products and saturated fats will decrease your trans fatty acid intake…so check those labels.

17. I have heard that peppermint can help relieve gas and make your stomach feel better. Is this true and if so, how does it work?

1. Small amounts of peppermint oil in candies and chocolate mints can help relieve stomach acid in most people. It works by relaxing the spinchter that closes the top of the stomach and this allows gas to escape more easily and relieve a gassy stomach. A cup of peppermint tea can do the same. Artificial peppermint flavoring doesn’t work. Precautions include people who may be allergic to mint and young children because the menthol may cause a choking sensation.

17. I have been on the New Mayo Clinic Diet for 3 weeks and have lost 10 pounds. I was wondering if this will raise my cholesterol? Is this a real diet I can stay on or just a fad?

A.  The New Mayo Clinic Diet is more than just a fad—it is a complete myth. To quote from the Mayo Clinic, "for more than 30 years the so-called "Mayo Clinic Diet " has surfaced in many forms and in many places. Various versions push grapefruit to peel off pound magically. We can offer you clear and official advice—don’t believe any of these diets. They did not originate at the Mayo Clinic and are not approved by the Mayo Clinic. These diets promote temporary quick weight loss, however, they are not nutritionally balanced or a safe method of weight loss for long-term success. Such diets can be dangerous for some individuals."

Q. Is an energy bar best for an afternoon snack before I work out?

A. An energy bar is a convenient, but expensive calorie source. You can get the same energy from snacks such as yogurt, a banana and juice, a bagel, or fig cookies. Find out which foods settle best in your stomach. The popularity of energy bars has highlighted the importance of eating before exercise. Fueling within an hour before you work out boosts stamina and endurance.