Dear Heloise: I enjoy your column every day in the Oregonian. Concerning the use of molasses in oatmeal or other foods, we found that the nitrates in it can be a migraine trigger to susceptible individuals. I made Boston Brown Bread, which we thought was very healthy (all whole grains, molasses, etc.). But my husband always got a migraine about 20 minutes after consuming it, so research finally revealed that it was the nitrates in the molasses (and also in cured meats) that triggered the headaches. — Mary Ann, in Portland, Oregon

FRYING STEAK

Dear Heloise: My husband likes his steaks pan-fried, but frying makes them so tough! Any help would be appreciated. — A Reader, in Ohio

First, do you use a cast-iron pan? It’s the best for frying steak. Next, let your steak warm up a little before frying it. Take it out of the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes. Blot it with a paper towel to get moisture out. (Too much moisture boils the meat.)

Then make sure your pan is very hot when you drop the steak in and sear it on both sides, after which you can turn the heat down to medium. Don’t overcook it, or it’ll be dry and tough. When you’re done cooking the steak, let it sit on a plate for a few minutes so that all the juices flow back into the center. — Heloise

HOME SECURITY

Dear Heloise: Most break-ins occur between 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through ground-level windows and doors, so make sure to check both window and door locks. You can add window bars for extra security. You can also install security cameras or motion detectors. If you can afford a security monitoring system, all the better.

If you are home while a burglar is trying to get in, go to a neighbor’s house or a store nearby and call the police. Tell them there is a robbery currently in progress. Your safety should be your first priority. — Janet S., in Waco, Texas

COLOR ME BORED

Dear Heloise: I have spent months looking at furniture stores that might carry the color fabric I want for new furniture. But all carry exactly the same range of dull, bland colors that are supposed to be “in.”

How about pastels and small designs on fabric? What happened to green and yellow? Wake up, manufacturers — not everyone wants gray, blue or beige! Thank you. — Jane, in Fredericksburg, Virginia

Jane, I hear you. Fresh greens and yellows can add light and energy to a room! — Heloise

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Dear Heloise: I cut out a piece of waxed paper and line a window for privacy when I haven’t hung up curtains or drapes yet (for example, when I move into a new apartment or home). It allows light in, but no one can see inside. I really hope this helps someone in a pinch. — Donna R., via email

EFFICIENT PAD DISPOSAL

Dear Heloise: Women of a certain age sometimes have bladder leakage. However, the pads they use can be an unattractive nuisance in the home garbage. Here’s a possible solution: a baby diaper disposal system, which keeps things sealed up out of sight and smell and is efficient. — A Reader, via email

(Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.)