Polish may restore luster to yellowed silverware

Dear Heloise: My sterling-silver flatware is nearly 70 years old and has changed color to a yellow cast. This may have happened because I put it in the dishwasher over the years. Got any ideas on how I can restore the original luster?—Dean and Shirley L., Story City, Iowa

Yes, but first (for other readers, too), you might be using the wrong dishwasher detergent, as most contain chlorine bleach, and the lemon-fragrance ones are even worse on silverware. If your flatware is indeed sterling silver, then it should (and has with you) last a lifetime or two.

To restore the luster, try these hints: Get some good silver-polishing cloths and test one or two pieces. Get some good silver-polishing CREAM (not the quick-dip stuff) and be ready to get to work. It can be a messy job, but you will see the tarnish come off.

This may be enough to bring back that luster. Good luck, and let me know.— Heloise

SMOKED PAPRIKA—YUMMY! Dear Readers: I recently discovered a new way to perk up the flavor of veggies and hummus: SMOKED PAPRIKA! It adds a whole new flavor to cucumbers, celery and carrots. I love it! I sprinkle some on plain hummus, and WOW, it’s fantabulous! Try it and see.—Heloise

DIET TIPS

Dear Heloise: I eat even when I’m not hungry. Sometimes I’m bored, or stressed, or it’s mealtime and I’ll sit down and eat anyway. The registered dietitian recommended by my doctor has helped me learn some new healthy eating choices. Here are a few things I’m doing, and they seem to help:

Before I reach for the ice cream or cookies, I try to take a break, take a deep breath a few times and drink a glass of room-temperature water.

I’ve learned to chew more slowly and set down my fork between bites. When my hunger stops, I try to stop eating and save the rest. And I use smaller plates when at home.

When we go out, everything on the menu looks so good! I’ve learned to order items I like, but not over-order. If the servings are really large, I ask the waitstaff to bring me to-go boxes then, not after the meal. I put about 1/2 of each dish into the box, and you know, what’s left on my plate is just enough. It’s not easy, but I’m learning good habits and have lost several pounds so far.—No Name, via email

Dear No Name: Good for you! A few changes can make a difference. You are right about many serving sizes! I’m known as the “ToGo Box Queen”! Lunch the next day is already ready!— Heloise

READY TO EAT

Dear Heloise: When my son comes home from college, I try to have several meals already fixed so we can visit. I pop a casserole in the oven, fix a salad and we are set.

He helps with the cleanup!— Susan D., Arlington, Va.