Equal - 0 Calorie sweetener

Any comments or advice here for or against using Equal? I know it's 0 calories, but I've seen some comments (not on MFP) about the importance of staying away from artificial sweeteners. I've tried Stevia but it's just not the same for me. I'm currently in a stall and I'm doing everything right, except for eating back all my calories burned, so I'm just curious whether or not the Equal is my problem. I have not had a Dr Pepper in over a month, but I love my tea and coffee with a couple of packets of equal.