Okay - I'm right there with ya. Or, I was.
I think Diet Coke has some secret, addictive ingredient because it was almost as hard to kick the DC habit as it was to kick ciggies! But, it IS possible. Nowadays none of my hard-earned money is going to Diet Coke 12 packs or Marlboros!
I used to stop on my way to work, drive-thru Carl's Jr. & get the largest DC. Then I'd finish it at my desk and go to the cafeteria on my 10:00 break. Another giant DC. Same at lunch. Same for afternoon break. Drive thru AGAIN for the afternoon drive home. Then I'd start on my cans in the fridge! What the
I felt so much better after kicking it to the curb - my GERD really got better. Here is what I did:
Moved to Diet 7up - no caffeine
Mixed low-sugar fruit juice in Diet 7up
Starting experimenting with herbal teas
Bought the iced tea maker & always had some in the fridge
Started drinking low/no cal flavored waters (Propel & Fruit20 are my favs).
Haven't had a Diet Coke or any other carbonated pops in over a year. My tummy is much happier!
Good luck! Oh, as far as water, I used to HATE drinking it. So, I pour water into my plastic tag-along bottle & stick it in the freezer. For some reason I like it very much when it's almost icy! Strange, but works for me.