This disease makes socializing over breakfast/lunch/dinner very difficult for me and I gave up hanging out with friends due to it

My issue is over meal with friends, I chew too long and eat too slowly, and I choke easily when I have to answer anything they asked me while I’m chewing my food. I realize that it’s just easier to turn down invites to food hangouts than having to explain why I can’t talk over eating without choking, plus some people’s experiences are different, hence not all of them have mild dysphagia while chewing food like me.

If I really join them, I would pack half of my food in the togo box because I know I won’t be able to finish them in time without making others wait for me. It’s to a point where I felt that it’s easier if I eat alone and I could still finish my meal somewhat when I don’t feel the pressure of having to quickly finish my food. Sorry, I’m just ranting but I didn’t realize how isolating it feels to endure this.

Edit: Another bad part is I can’t count how many invites from old friends I’ve turned down because of the fear or embarrassment of having to explain my disease. I’m not really open to having to tell everyone about what’s wrong with me. It’s madness really.