A majority of diabetic patients in Bahrain are unaware of the hidden health risks of artificial sweeteners, according to an emerging study. Although many think of them as a 'healthier' alternative to sugar, mounting scientific evidence in recent years has found that some artificial sweeteners may have adverse health effects, potentially contributing to obesity, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, changes in the gut microbiome, and even an increased risk of certain cancers when consumed excessively .