Artificial Sweeteners

I've been meaning to ask this for awhile: Do you think that artificial sweeteners increase your appetite?  I have NEVER been able to use Sweet n Low, but I LOVE Equal and will use Splenda if I have to.  I'd really prefer to use Stevia, but I cannot afford it!!  Let me know what your experience with artificial sweeteners has been. Thanks. Piggy

i've been ok with it, i haven't noticed an increase in appetite, but then again even b4 wls i always used it. i never used sugar or drank regualar soda... =) gina

I've used it for ages too!! But, I'm thinking that my nutritionist said that too much would cause an increase in appetite. I just can't remember. Actually, even if it does, I'm not sure I'm willing to give it up!!!  I seem to have replaced my eating with a coffee habit and I can NOT drink coffee without sweetener!!!   Thanks for the response.    Hugs,   Piggy

i do remember that if consuming toomuch it may cause a laxative effect. but i don't remember them telling me that it increases appetite.... sorry =) gina

Oh it DEFINITELY does NOT have a laxative effect on me. Some days I sure wi**** would!! I know TMI  !!! Sorry    :o)

I've used Splenda since WLS.  I haven't noticed an increase in my appetite due to using it.  It's been the only one I really like.

Ok. Thanks for the response. I appreciate it. Piggy

No problems with it here, but I do know that many people are sensitive to it in several different ways. I mostly use crystal light and steer clear on diet soda b/c I just don't have a taste for it anymore, but I have read that alot of people that do drink diet soda have noticed an increased appetite.

I don't drink diet soda either. I just use a TON of equal/splenda in my coffee. I cannot drink Crystal Light because of the citric acid. It irritates my esophagus.

Actually, I believe that artifical sweetners can still raise your blood sugar so they work just like any other carbohydrate - your blood sugar goes up and then down which makes you crave more carbs - thus the increase in appetite. That's why people get hooked on diet coke. I used to drink a 12 pack a day of diet coke before surgery but haven't had a pop since Christmas of 2005 (I had surgery 3 days later). I know I feel better. I usually stick to water or 1/3 gatorade 2/3 water mix just for the electrolites. Hope this helps! Diona