How many of you swallow pills whole?

My surgeon's guidelines said I shouldn't try to swallow pills larger than an M&M.

I can do small pills without a problem. Larger ones, or capsules of any kind, I have not even attempted. I either split them in half or empty the capsule into a teaspoon of applesauce. Even with the smaller pieces, I have felt them "stick" for a few seconds, so I don't want to chance it. I just make sure to drink LOTS of water with them.

I can only do very small pills like a Claritan or a bc pill.  I get sinus infections a couple of times a year and have a really hard time being able to take something that cures the infection without causing a problem for my band. 

Anybody have any suggestions?

Thanks,

I just had a major stuck episode on half of a tablet this week .. i had to go in for a slight unfill. I will never attempt that again.   I think I made the mistake though of taking it in the morning and I should have known better, I am always tighter in the morning.  :(    I take most of my stuff in chewables or cut them if they are bigger than an M&M.

 I take mine whole.