In Juky I decided to give up diet soda and artificially sweetened drinks including coffee creamer that had such ingredients.   That was the middle of July, and although I gave up soda as soon as I was released from the hospital, it took me a little while to get the junk out of the morning coffee.   Note:  the hospitalization was not related to these products, I just decided to follow a healthier diet and the diet soda issue had been on my mind for some time.  By August 1 I had completely given up artificiaL sweeteners , I do use Stevia in the am coffee with a little half and half.   I have to admit that 40 days later I feel better.  I cannot tell you exactly how I feel better, but I would say less fatigue.   At times when dining out it is tempting to have that cola, but it is fine to have tea or water, I bought some liquid stevia foe a trip next week.  During this same time period I dropped almost 8 lbs.   I do worry about my vacation next week wrecking it, but I a, hopeful that f I try to maintain my fiber daily it will be ok.  That said, I started the 25-35 grams of fiber around the same time as the diet soda boycott.   However, I have failed a couple weekend days to stay on my fiber diet.   I am hoping with pool season over that becomes less of an issue.   I also use myfitnesspal and I track my protein, calcium, etc daily.   I highly recommend logging your food so you are aware of your total nutrients.  I will see the doc and have blood work in October, I hope my borderline high cholesterol and my borderline diabetes are no longer concerns.   I will also admit that  this week, dietbet kept me on track the day before weighing.  2 work days to vacation!