Little pink, yellow and blue packets of poison?

Hi guys,

this is really embarrassing, but I'm concerned and would like to know a) if there are others out there that know they consume WAY too much artificial sweetener (splenda, sweet n' low, even stevia (when I can steal it from a coffee place). I don't want to admit this, but I really have to get a grip with it, I'm using a sick amount everyday... as in 20 or more... ok more.

I know it's not safe or healthy, but does anyone else consume this much? Has anyone become ill? And, am I actually additicted, because I really feel like I am.

Thanks.

Wow, I'm really embarrassed!

I used to use a TON of those things but have been gradually been weaning myself from them.

What used to be 5-6 packets of splenda in my morning oatmeal is now 2 (sometimes just one ontop with a few drops of Stevia)...

I was honestly addicted to the uber-sweet effect they gave me, so much that I was brely tasting the foods anymore. I don't think it ever made me ill, but I know that the amount I was using was giving me terrible (and foul smelling) gas, and made me feel bloated.

And contrary to popular belief, those little bad boys do contain calories. One gram of splenda has 1 carbohydrate, which equals 4 calories. And when you're using them throughout the day... those buggers add up.

I do think it can be an addiction. Like, for example, I drank A LOT of diet sodas... and there was something about them that made me feel the need to eat SOMETHING more. It's a sweetness aftertaste that leaves me reaching for more. The same goes for sweet n low. Although the poison aspect of it only affects a few people... (which is why this harmful substance is still legal by the FDA). I'm hesitant about my usage of sweet n low as well... I'm even wary of other sweetners that say they are "natural".

You might want to use honey as a sweetner... or just limit your use of them. You CAN get used to less sugar. I used to like REALLY sweet tea. Now most are too sweet. It just takes weaning down. If you can't give up sweetners, you should wean down! Just in case, you know?

Thanks. The stupid part on my end is that up until about 6 months ago I hardly used any at all. And now, its in my oatmeal (I use a really disturbing amount in that), in my coffee, in my gum, in my tea, in my yogurt for God's sake!

I really, really have to stop. It's gross, at the very least.

I used even more than that.  I have quit sweetners and sugar cold turkey this week.  First two days were hard because of the detox headache.  But hey, it is day 4 and I am feeling more clear headed than I have in years.  You just have to set your mind to it - sometimes easier said than done.  But if I can do it anyone can!!!

i love the pink packets mmmm

I love the yellow packets. I put alot of it in my tea or whatever needs sugar. I wish I ate more sweetened foods so I could use more of it in my day.