[Crazy Cat Chick]

I stopped drinking soda and switched to crystal light thinking that because its got no sugar that I has to be healthier right? But it is an artificial sweetener.

Anyone got any answers?

[KLK]

I think it depends on what you're going for -- if you're just looking for something low-calorie, it's probably fine. But if you're looking to avoid taking in chemicals and corn syrup and such too, skip it.

I'm trying to avoid overly chemicalized stuff these days, but when I first lost weight in 2004, I drank Crystal Light somewhat regularly and I still did lose weight and I'm still very healthy.

[djay]

I thought the same thing...However...
According to the Medifast Nutritionist...
The sweetner used in sodas is usually a liquid whereas the powder sweeteners used in Crystal Light and other powdered drinks usually contains fillers that add to the caloric and carboyhdate balance in your diet.

[kaplods]

I use it quite a bit with out problems, either full strength or diluted, although I use Walmart's version as it is half the price, and I think the flavor is as good or better. However, the sweetener is aspartame, and some people are sensitive to it (headaches are the most common side effect reported, I believe).

My viewpoint is that the ideal diet is all natural whole foods, but that small compromises are relatively harmless here and there, and sometimes it's a matter of the lesser of evils. Others may disagree, but like my weightloss plan in general, in my diet I strive for progress, not perfection.

[shelby897]

I use the single serve Crystal Light -- but instead of 16 oz of water, I add it to 32 oz -- gives just enough flavor to make the water tolerable to me but I feel like I'm not overdoing it.

[mabelsfa198]

I agree that it depends on what is most important to you. If you are trying a more natural approach, it would not be a good idea. However, if you are looking for something to help with hunger I think it can be a good thing. I personally like it because it helps me drink more water.

[julie99s]

I drink mostly plain ol' water, but on occasion when I feel the need to have something sweet to drink, I'll add half a single serve packet to my bottle of water. I quit drinking diet pops a month or so ago (was only drinking caffiene free diet sodas) and had the worst headaches when I switched to water. I assume I had a bit of a dependancy on the sweetners??? Don't feel like going through that again.