Hi Lois.....I don't have a serious problem eating right now, but I eat small amounts. It's GERD coming up and allergy draining all the time for me. Not critical, just need to eat better. Had some back teeth pulled and while waiting for that to heal, got out of the habit of eating healthy. I lived on hot cereal for days. If I want to build up some muscle and take better care of me....I do go to something like Ensure. Right now, I belch up anything, don't eat properly and have no one to blame but myself. I'll swing back. If your really anxious (if I am) I wait until I'm relaxed to eat. Have you talked to your doctor about this? I have lots going on besides GERD so used to complications. I have FMS/CMPS, O.A., TMJ, GERD/Hernia and 24/7 pain. Does you doctor understand your very anxious? I could lose 15 lbs. w/o it being a problem, but it's a problem as it's muscle mass and that's not healthy. I'm still wondering about that muscle? Did doctor say your clutching because your nervous? Has anyone suggested a muscle relaxer or mild anti-depressant? Did you have a choking incident that tends to make you panic? I'm sure the doctor can address this fear or recommend someone to help you through it. Not sure if your fighting a muscle problem or a high anxiety problem. Most of us would be fearful if we experienced a choking incident. I'm more experienced with anxiety then with this new hernia. Learned skills make a difference. Speaking of food...need some. Yum, love cereal and coffee mate. Can't drink milk.
Warm Regards, Annie