2 kinds of feeling stuck

[Melissannde 41]

I have to say that this is the topic that scares me to pieces about getting banded. I feel like I will be too afraid to try anything at all. Can ya'll explain the actual size of your 'small' bites that you cut your meats, shrimp, etc. into? Thanks.

About the size of an english pea or a (normal sized) pencil eraser.

[sassyfrass 24]

Thanks Davey and Melissa. I often try eating that way now just to try to get a feel for how it will be. I just wasnt sure exactly how small the pcs should be. I have found that by the time I chew it over and over and over that there isn't much taste left. Very interesting. Thanks for your input. I really appreciate all the comments and advice. I have learned so much on this site in order to be prepared as much as possible before my surgery.

[B-52 7,113]

I'll throw something out here with a different slant.

Getting stuck is a good thing. what I mean is, eating foods such as steak, that will get stuck easily, can be good. It teaches you a new, better way to eat. Rather than being a "Pig"

1) It forces you to eat the small pencil eraser size bites, chew very thoroughly, and put the fork down between bites, in order to get through it.

2) When eating something like steak, I can only eat a very small portion. Maybe 1/4. Fish or tender chicken, I can eat 3 times as much because it is easier. So which is better?

Knowing the fears and feelings of being stuck many times, I have become conditioned to a new way of eating, rather than the old way. First sign of pain or discomfort and I either slow way down, or stop altogether.

Now if I can just figure out Ice Cream!

BTW, IMO there is only one kind of stuck. The mild will lead to the first if you push it. How do I get rid of it? Go in the bathroom, stand over the sink or toilet, and drink Water. If you are stuck, the Water has no where to go and will right back up, usually bringing the food - slime with it.

[AVDavey 0]

I think B-52 makes a good point. Getting stuck was kind of the whole point of the lap-band! One sure-fire way to not get stuck: don't get a lap-band!

[need2lose2 10]

Thank you all so much for you input. I'm feeling better and understand more.

On another note, my surgeon is requiring an ABG (OUCH!!!!), a chest xray, and a pulmonary function test. I'm a bit nervous for these appts cuz i don't know what to expect. Any insights would be great. Tx so much

[Ready2 4]

I had my surgery in January 2010 and I STILL can't tolerate any type of beef - not even ground beef.

bread is completely out of the question. I missed it in the beginning but now it's not a problem.