I am in the early stages of the lap band process. Anticipated month of surgery is July. I want to start now, adjusting to the after surgery behavior. I am finding it hard to take smaller bites and chew thoroughly. my fear is it this behavior will continue after I get the surgery and I wont lose any weight, any suggestions?

Well I can tell you this, once you have the band and adequate Fluid in it, taking smaller bites and chewing thoroughly becomes a lot easier once you've stuck lol. Being stuck is no fun and sometimes even painful. For most of us, it's our first stuck episode that really gets us to start taking smaller bites and chewing our food until mush. It's not something we ever want to experience again.

A lot of people find using baby utensils helpful to practice smaller bites. There's even different apps or your smart phone that are made to help you eat slower.

Btw, you're doing a good thing to start thinking about stuff like bite size in advance. You'll do great

Aww thanks for saying that. Im in tears.

I started before my surgery date as well. I needed to eat slower, chew longer and not wash my food down with diet soda. That about covers my vices. By starting early I was able to lose enough weight not to require a pre-op diet. And I starting building new better habits. I would also recommend you start taste testing protein powders. Nashua Nutrition sells several brands in single serving size so you can try them without committing to a huge container. I found several I love that way. Also be sure to try Unjury Chocolate Splendor! The best. Invest in the sugar free syrups coffee shops use, they can spice up a bland protein shake or cup of coffee! I congratulate you on thinking ahead and getting prepared. I think it was one of my success factors. Best Wishes!

Oyster forks, small plates, put your fork down between bites, try an app called "eat slower" to time between bites or use an old fashioned egg timer. Make sure to chew completely to mush before swallowing. Don't drink during meal time. Be aware of what you are eating and how it "works with the band".

These are all things that helped my wife adjust and have minimal stuck episodes.