I have had my lapband since april 2005 and have lost 80 lbs. I still have problems with some foods (bread, pasta etc) but am able to eat a normal diet. I do take a protein drink in the morning with high protein milk so that I make sure I get 60 grams of protein a day. That is my goal every day. Then I experiment with new foods every day. If they feel too large to go thru my band I make sure they don't. I do not limit my choices unless I make a mistake get something stuck which has happened twice to me. I don't let that stop me I just remember that is part of the process of re-learning to eat and learning to use the tool of the band.
For those of you who have trouble with dry meat try low cal sauces to help the dryness. My Dr suggested using sauces as the volumn is low and it helps not only with the blandness of dry chicken or beef but it allows you to be able to swallow easier.
