Help! I need to slow down!

I have always been a fast eater.  So, this is a 50+ year old habit that I am struggling to break.  I find that I am eating way too fast right now and I can't seem to stop this crazy train!  

Do you have any strategies that you use to slow yourself down?   

Use smaller utensils. Toddler sized if you have to.

Set it down after each bite.

Count 40-50 chews before swallowing.

 Nope...i still eat and drink too fast. But, getting the foamies a few times early out made me slow down a little bit. I definitely think twice before continuing to eat too fast - i dont want to risk the foamies!!

At my seminar they said to buy a timer and set it for 2 min between each bite.  Not sure if it works...I'm still pre-op but I'm guessing it will help some.

Sorry can't help here.. i am still a hoover...Luckly I have never had the foamies or any issues.
I am just the first one done with my few ounces of food and have more time to talk
Julie

I use chop sticks. It not only slows me down but helps me in taking smaller bites.

I put my fork or spoon down between each bite...I try to wait a minute before I take a new bite.

I literally eat like a toddler! LOL, I seriously cut anything I have up into teeny tiny pieces and eat one piece at a time.  If its like cottage cheese or something I use a spoon for, I found that if I set a timer and give myself a household chore to do while eating helps.  Usually fold laundry...take a little bite, fold something, and this contiues.... good luck

Thank you for all of your great suggestions!  I'm going to start using a smaller spoon and putting it down between bites.  I like the timer idea too.  

What types of foods are you eating right now?  If you are still on softs.....ehh that is probably why.  Once you start eating dense solid protein.....you just won't be able to do it.

At eight months now.....I KNOW IT if I don't chew well enough....almost immediately.  My body doesn't give me a choice anymore....I'm gonna chew and the food needs to be moist.

The other tips here should help with softer foods.....eat with baby spoons, smaller plates/bowls, don't eat distracted (tv, computer, etc).