views on sugar free water flavoring packets

I don't really have a problem with em, I usually do the same.

Once I got off soda years back, I went to diet for awhile, then cut it out altogether.

I pick up random crystal light, and similar juices whenever they're on sale, regardless of the artificial sweetners.

I find them pretty strong though, and usually cut it to half a pack + 1L water.

There's way worse things you could be drinking.

I would say stay away from them. Google whatever artificial sweetener is in it and you'll see lots of studies/articles on the negative side effects of them. I myself use True Lemon Lemonade which is sweetened with Stevia.

You say stay away from them, yet you use stevia?

Stevia has been linked to several long term side effects which has made it a reason for controversy and doubt in the recent years. Although it has been used since centuries by the natives, there are several claimed dangers of stevia. The following are some of the claimed dangers or side effects of stevia.

* Firstly, it is said to be the biggest hindrance in the process of metabolism in the body. Regular consumption of stevia slows down or stops energy metabolism and hence, disrupt the process of conversion of food into energy.

* Secondly, one of the biggest stevia dangers is its link to cancer. When tested in a laboratory, it was found that stevia was capable of bringing mutations in cell's DNA or the genetic material. This is only a claimed side effect as this effect has not been observed in human beings till date. However, scientists and researchers have still not confirmed whether stevia can cause this mutation in human beings or not.
* Thirdly, difficulties or problems in reproduction is also believed to be one of the stevia side effects. Long term regular consumption of stevia is claimed to affect the male reproduction system, specially leading to a decreased amount of sperm production. When tested on female animal, it was found that stevia led to decreased number of offsprings.

I avoid artificial sweeteners. If I need some flavour in my water I squeeze a fresh lemon into it.

Honestly if you want to find information on something like that I would go to a peer reviewed scholarly journal so you can see the most up to date research on the subject. There is so much bull **** on the internet, too much contradicting information.

Personally I hate aspartame, but I would never judge anyone who drinks it. I drank tea flavored with it for a few days straight and had migraines for 2 weeks and craved sweets every day I used it. I think that if it helps you drink water, then have it but try and limit your comsumption. I wrote a paper on this subject when my High School switched to all diet sodas in the machines. Aspartame can reduce concentration and cause many problems if consumed in excess*. Again, it's your choice, but I would suggest using something with splenda or truvia

*excess being the key word here

Herbal teas are made of awesome. They give me some flavour in my water for 0 calories. I get berry, spiced mint, honey and lemon, rooibos chai, and apple flavours myself.

I find that I drink more water by using them. I think you have to do what works for you. I also use 1/2 packet to 16.9oz bottle. I love the 4c brand teas and vitamin sticks. I have also brewed herbal teas and sweeten with honey. I will always use the packets, when I die I don't think people will say; if only she didn't drink those flavor packets! Keep drinking!