The article traces the history of artificial sweeteners—starting with saccharin, followed by cyclamate, aspartame, etc.—and discusses how early concerns about cancer risk caused by saccharin and cyclamate were later re-examined (with saccharin’s cancer link largely debunked). It highlights recent research suggesting possible associations between high consumption of artificially sweetened beverages and increased risk of cardiovascular problems (like stroke and heart disease), especially in studies of post-menopausal women. The author underscores that these findings are correlational (not definitive proof), encourages moderation, drinking more water, and consulting physicians when interpreting medical news.