Slushies: A Warning for Parents of Young Children
New research suggests children under eight should avoid slushies due to the potential for glycerol intoxication syndrome. The brightly colored icy drinks contain high levels of glycerol, a sugar substitute that prevents freezing. This can lead to symptoms including loss of consciousness, low blood sugar, lactic acidosis, and hypokalaemia. While glycerol is present in some foods, the concentration in slushies is significantly higher. A study examined 21 children (ages 2-7) who experienced symptoms like those described above after consuming slushies, requiring emergency treatment. Although all recovered, researchers urge caution, particularly as there's a lack of transparency regarding glycerol levels in slushies, making it difficult to determine a safe dose. The Food Standards Agency already advises against slushies for children under four and limits consumption for those aged five to ten. This new research reinforces the need for parents to avoid giving slushies to children under eight.