Ask Dr. Notebook

Q: On a recent flight, I found the manicotti too darn spicy. I plan to travel a lot this summer and wonder how I can avoid such gastric discomfort?

A: Just call ahead and request a bland meal. That's right--along with kosher and vegetarian choices, most airlines offer a bland meal. For breakfast, it might include a muffin and unsalted margarine, and for dinner some lean chicken and perhaps a pear half or two. And yes, you can get a first-class version as well, which is bland in the most deluxe way.

Q: I love peanut butter, but sometimes having...

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