So sidestepping the aspartame and other stuff in diet drinks etc, i KNOW they aren't that great for you etc etc etc...but

do they contribute to the body holding onto stored fat? or at least some water rentention?

I have no problem admitting I drink diet drinks to possibly major excess (4L a day-ish)

even though they contain no sugar calories or carbs (or much of anything) will the enforce a stall/bloat or whatever you want to call it?