Put only a small amount of food in your mouth at a time, and put it on the stronger side of your mouth. This will make swallowing easier and help prevent choking. Also, clear your mouth and throat after each bite of food. You can check for trapped food with a mirror and remove it with your tongue or fingers. Clearing your throat after each bite of food also helps prevent choking.
Some foods are easier to eat than others.
For example, soft foods such as applesauce, hot cereal and sherbet are easier to swallow than liquids. Breaking down foods in a blender is another way to make them easier to swallow. Many department stores and health food stores sell small, portable blenders that work very well. Some people who've had a stroke may have problems reaching for and spilling food, cutting meat, buttering bread or opening containers. If you have these problems, don't get discouraged.