I got my band on 5/7 and could eat anything I wanted in small amounts. After I got my first fill some of the things I could eat before I can't eat now but not most of them. I disagree with your statement and feel that if you follow the rules you will not suffer. I have had that stuck feeling 5 or 6 times (twice very severe). I believe it was my fault. If I ate too much, too fast or something was too dry it got stuck. I have mastered the very very small bites ( if steak or meat). I am still working on the speed. I was always the first one done. By following all the rules, except speed, if it does get stuck it is only for a minute and it passes. Try chewing a couple of "papaya enzymes" tablets (cheap at the pharmacy) because it helps with digestion and is cheap to buy. I believe you control your band,it does not control you. Hope this helps!
P.S. I have lost 55 lbs! I am half way there!