Artificial Sweetener Intolerance

[mjp33 4]

I have been having a lot of GI problems over the last several month or so. The pain became unbearable this week, so I went to my dr and she thinks it's due to artificial sweetners. As I think about my diet, much of what I eat has these sweeteners in them. I will do anything to avoid the pain and bloating caused by the artificial sweetener, so I am looking for ideas on how to revamp my diet. I could care less about eliminating most of it, but I think I'm really worried about Protein Shakes because they are my go to item. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

[2muchfun 8,927]

Why and when do you still drink shakes?

Some people are tight in the mornings and it's the only food they can get down?

[2muchfun 8,927]

And, is this your PCP or bariatric doctor?

[mjp33 4]

Yes...it's my pcp. And as I think about times that I've felt bad over the last several months, it really does make sense.

shakes...yes I have them in the morning. Or after fills.

[2muchfun 8,927]

So, can you eat normal food in the morning instead of a shake? Or, just have a shake with sugar(or fructose) in it? It only adds about 80 calories and in the short run should not make a difference. That way you can eliminate the shake with artificial sweeteners as the culprit?

[Bandista 7,466]

I don't do artificial sweeteners at all. A good coop or health food store will have lots of Protein shakes to choose from -- look for Steevia, as that is a plant, but make sure you get 100% Steevia and not one that is mixed with something else, like Maltodextrin or other fillers (my auto correct is trying to change Maltodextrin to "Exterminator" -- hmmmm). Watch out for all those additives and fillers -- have to really check labels carefully. Real food in small quantities is my goal; a diet free of chemicals is a beautiful thing. Good luck to you -- I think you are really on the right track for true health!

[Ms. Blue 42]

I can't tolerate them either. Nor stevia. It's definitely hard. One thing I love is Unjury unflavored. It's one of the only unflavored Protein powders that doesn't taste terrible. I sometimes blend it with plain Greek yogurt, maybe 1/2 banana, powdered PB and maybe unsweetened cocoa. Makes a decent shake that's really high protein and pretty low cal.