I seem to have only two phases. I can chew my food really well, and have zero restriction and seem to be hungrier than a horse all day, or I don't chew a piece of something well and it gets stuck. Then I practically have to do a backflip in order for it to pass, and I'm pretty horrified by the experience that I don't want to put anything in my mouth for a while.

I get my first fill next week, but I'm wondering if there is a phase 3 perhaps? I don't want to chew my food until it's liquidy... it'll pass too easily. But a chunk of something almost always get stuck. Is this normal for one month post-op? I just want to feel full :biggrin: The good thing is that I haven't gained any weight though!

Yes, you have not even begun to really use your band.

You need to keep chewing well. You are not hungry because you are chewing your food well, you are hungry because you do not have enough restriction yet. After a fill or two the well-chewed food will stay in your pouch longer.

Not chewing well and causing yourself to get stuck simply creates swelling so that you can't eat. It is a bad habit to fall into.

You and I are in the same boat, I totally understand. I was banded on 5/22 and get frustrated at how much I can eat as long as I chew it to death. I can't wait till I go in for a fill.

Your two replies pretty much hit on the head. I am returning to that point now that I have lost, and may get a 2nd fill at the end of this month. All I can say is eat small portions many times a day, and drink a lot of water spread out the whole day That is how I manage to keep losing weight during that period. I pack an insulated back with me every day at work. It contains a Boost Glucose control drink that I drink right away, a 1 ounce pack or raisins for 9am, a sugar free pudding for 10am, another pack of raisins for 2pm, and a sugar free jello for 3pm. Once in awhile I throw in an orange or apple. On occasion I will buy some dark chocolate and throw in small treats.