Hi
some artificial sweeteners, such as Aspartame, are not very nice, but others are OK I like Splenda myself. In addition, Xylitol, a natural product is lower carb and so fine if used in moderation. I find it useful If I need the texture of sugar, as in Meringues.
You don't have to give up everything sweet.
What the dieticians often don't tell you is thar starches are sources of blood glucose too and you may need to cut them back quite a lot.
If you don't already have a meter, get hold of one, so you can learn the effects of different foods on your blood glucose.
Hana