Jubilee
I don't know if you've tried any beverages/foods with artificial sweeteners, but I advise against it. The human GI tract was not meant to process those chemicals. My GI tract's response to it was diarrhea, unfortunately, which is the body's way of saying, "Get OUT!" (How many others of our membership have experienced that reaction to artificial sweeteners? Raise your hands...)
And please consider consulting a qualified dietician to receive guidance for the not-so-mutually-exclusive issues of diabetes, ostomy, and weight maintenance. They can help you make sense of your options.
Yep, there is a lot to learn, Jubilee. But you can do this! Start by taking a deep breath... :)
There are so many resources, especially these days with the Internet making information available. Take everything with the proverbial grain of salt, initially, and consult a doctor. And, when you encounter a trusted medical professional, add them to your Team! Keep asking questions of them, and of anyone you come across that has experience in the issues you need addressed.
Something else about medical professionals: if you are not finding the relationship beneficial for you - lack of communication/answers, respect, consideration, slow to respond, to test, or they KEEP testing without getting anywhere, etc. - fire them. It's as simple as that. Unlike in days of yore, you need to be your own health advocate. Pay attention to your body and how it responds to what you provide (and don't) and keep looking for answers until you get the right ones for you because we're all different and have differing needs.
That being said, continue to be gracious with yourself. There are blessings to be experienced everywhere, and sometimes we forget to notice. Take time to take care of your Self: smile, laugh when you can, do things that make you feel good, and help someone else when you're able. It'll come back to you, tenfold.
Looking forward to hearing back from you with a "progress report" - :) - when you have time, Jubilee!
Lily17