Artificial Sweeteners and Weight Loss

I have written and posted articles in different forums regarding the dangers of sucralose and aspartame. For some reason, none of those have ever landed here. Actually it is probably better that I reference other articles to validate what I teach.
So, here are a few websites to visit:
http://www.splendaexposed.com/

http://www.womentowomen.com/nutritionandweightloss/splenda.aspx
(caveat - I am not recommending their hormonal imbalance program. I feel like ours is better, and has a 6 month satisfaction guarantee...however, the information on artificial sweeteners there is very good.)
http://www.tuberose.com/Sucralose.html
and if you really want to dig deep - this is a list of articles written by Dr. Mercola
http://search.mercola.com/Results.aspx?k=aspartame%20sucralose

Now, if you read all this, and are still convinced that it is safe to use any of the artificial sweeteners... I'll have to come to the conclusion that you enjoy deceiving yourself. Most people who use them regularly are addicted. If you doubt that (and you are a user) try an experiment: stop using all artificial sweeteners for 8 weeks. I'd love to hear back from you on how well you fare!

Maybe you are now wondering what is safe. Stevia, agave, xylitol, trehalose (new kid on the block) - are all good alternatives. Keep in mind though - everything in moderation.