hi joan.

Yeah, artificial sugars are a problem for (I think) most of us. They probably trigger an insulin surge; they may also keep in place the brain chemistry/emotional patterns that had us eating sugar for comfort for so long...so if you can stay away from them 100%, it'd be better. (and probably better for you in other ways, too...none of these chemicals can be good for us!)

The good news is that the more you stay away from fake sugar, the sweeter and sweeter veggies will taste to you. For a "dessert," think about a slice of really good cheese and some high-quality olives. I find this truly satisfying.

I've been taking chromium pic--which I get at my local grocery's health food aisle--but others take GTF chromium. And kristin is right--L-glutamine (between meals) can really help with cravings.

You've learned something important this week--and that's wonderful. Pat yourself on the back for that and your commitment to keep moving forward.