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.
Molecular medicine researcher Dr Rabab Wahab is calling for stronger communication between doctors and patients, urging physicians to better educate and monitor their patients’ use of artificial sweeteners.
“I conducted this research, in collaboration with researchers from Bahrain University, because diabetic patients need to understand both the advantages and disadvantages of artificial sweeteners,” Dr Wahab, a former Bahrain University assistant professor, told the GDN.
“They shouldn’t consume them without knowing how they work or the possible effects on their health.”
An artificial sweetener is a chemical or plant-derived substance used to provide sweetness in foods and drinks with few or no calories.
It is often used in diet sodas or low calorie beverages, ‘sugar-free’ foods, gelatin and puddings, cereals and more.
Dr Wahab’s study explored the knowledge, attitudes and practices related to artificial sweetener use among diabetic patients in Bahrain.
It surveyed 391 Type 1 and Type 2 diabetic patients, both men and women.
Among the participants, 41.4 per cent reported using artificial sweeteners, and of those, 62pc believed they were ‘healthy alternatives’ to sugar.
Nearly 88pc of users said they began consuming artificial sweeteners after being diagnosed with diabetes.
“The uncontrolled use of artificial sweeteners can have significant downsides,” she said, adding that research has proved they can actually contribute to obesity by increasing appetite. They have also been linked to cardiovascular diseases and, in some studies, even certain types of cancer.”
When asked whether artificial sweeteners could be linked to dementia, as suggested by some recent studies, she said that more research was needed before any definitive conclusions could be made.
Dr Wahab presented the findings of her study during the Bahrain Diabetes Conference and Global Diabetic Foot Course 2025, which took place at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel in Manama over the weekend.
The work is currently being prepared for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
Dr Wahab emphasised the importance of educating diabetic patients about safe dietary choices, encouraging moderation and awareness rather than total dependence on sugar substitutes.
“The goal is not to create fear, but to promote informed choices,” she added. “The issue is that while doctors often advise patients to reduce their sugar intake, many still crave something sweet and turn to sugar substitutes. This highlights the need for better communication and monitoring between doctors and patients.
“Physicians should track how much and what types of sweeteners their patients are consuming, as this should be tailored to each individual’s condition.”
Awali Hospital consultant endocrinologist Dr Dalal Alromaihi said that she does not recommend using artificial sweeteners regularly to her patients, cautioning that they should be treated as an occasional option, rather than a daily habit.
“While they may seem like a safer alternative for people with diabetes because they don’t raise blood glucose immediately, evidence shows that they do not help with weight loss and may even be linked to metabolic and cardiovascular risks over time,” she added.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), in its 2023 guidelines, advised against using non-sugar sweeteners for weight control or disease prevention, citing a lack of long-term benefits and potential risks.
Similarly, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) recommends a cautious, individualised approach that prioritises moderation and overall healthy eating habits over reliance on sweeteners.
“In my opinion, artificial sweeteners may be better than sugar in specific contexts for diabetes management, but they are not a free pass,” she stated.
“The best approach remains to reduce both sugar and artificial sweeteners, retrain the palate away from excessive sweetness, and focus on whole, balanced foods for true metabolic health.”
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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