Hi all,

I just recently started following the principles of the GI Diet (which I understand are similar to the SB diet).

However, I am concerned about the fact that using artificial sweeteners are condoned. I gave up Aspartame years ago which is the best thing I ever did.

I refuse to use Aspartame, Splenda, Equal or any other sweetener like this.

What can I use instead? I see that Agave and Stevia are okay. Is there anything else?

I usually use organic cane juice granules, is this okay? Thanks!

~CGH~

P.S. -- I just had one of the breakfasts suggested by the GI diet (All Bran buds, peach slices and skim milk. Had it about 45 min ago and am totally getting hungry. What's the deal?)

Organic cane juice granules is still sugar. So no, it is not ok. Agave is probably the best choice. I have read conflicting reports on the safety of stevia. I really don't like it, so I use agave. As a diabetic, I am more concerned about the sugar issues than anything else, so I do use a small amount of splenda. It is amazing how you can get off sugar, and not miss the sweet taste. I don't use much sweetner at all now. I drink my coffee and tea unsweetened, and if I DO want it a bit sweet, I use agave. I only use splenda if I am out at a restaurant and want sweetened tea, or if I drink a diet coke with splenda.

As for your breakfast, generally a protein based breakfast is going to stick with you longer. Especially when you are first starting out on a low glycemic diet. I eat eggs, bacon, or cheese for breakfast, and I might have a piece of whole wheat toast with it. I can usually go until mid afternoon with that.

Well, I'm going to look for Agave, but if I don't find Agave and don't want to use Stevia, is there anything else (natural?)

I would only use it for baking or recipes. I don't use sugar otherwise usually.

PS - Again today, following the meal plan that the GI diet book gave, I am starving. It's a bit ridiculous really, seeing that I was on WW (only 21 points) versus this!