So let's talk artificial sweeteners....

Yes, that was how I felt about stopping the Diet V-8 splash. I went to visit my son and family for a week just before Easter and ate differently than normal, but didn't have one bit of artificial sweetener, even the protein I was using out there had stevia in it... and a little sugar in my tea if I needed it, and I lost 4 pounds in a week. I was shocked. Haven't had a 4 lb week in awhile and that was while eating beans and tortillas and things I don't normally touch. This is an interesting journey

There are studies that show that artificial sweeteners do trigger sugar cravings.  I use liquid sucralose (generic Splenda) very sparingly.  Tried Stevia, but it has a licorice after taste to me and I have always hated licorice (only candy I can say that about).

Artificial sweeteners in drinks don't usually bother or trigger cravings for me. I use a few sweet n low or equals every day in my iced coffee,  and on occasion I drink diet soda or crystal light. 

Now diet sweets and food, can't touch those.