I laid off coffee for over 2 months, then I reintroduced it, and I ONLY drink half-reg/half-caf if I drink it, and no more than one cup a day, two max. Caffeine was a problem for me, as it is a known insulin trigger. I had a headache all week when I withdrew, that couldn't be cured by any pills. As far as soda and (even Crystal Light), it is a weight loss bomb- not only does it usually contain caffiene (not the Crystal Light) most of the time, it also usually contains aspartame and most always has citric acid, both known stallers. Drink Diet Rite if you gotta have it, but be aware that even this "legal soda" has citric acid. If I drink Diet Rite too much I stall or even gain. Try decaf green tea, it is delicious either hot or cold, or with or without cream.