I am a big diet coke addict ( :( ). I read this a while ago and I still haven't quit using drinks/foods containing asparatame. Thought you might want to read on the dangers. Splenda is also not the miracle guilt free sweetner that we all think it it either. http://www.mercola.com/article/aspartame/d...

I would recommend eating prior to working out, especially in the morning. After 6+ hours of sleep and no food, you are not properly fueled for the amount of energy you are about to exert. Even if it is a protein bar, it is important.