How Are Slushies Making Children Sick?

Slushies, the kids’ favourite drinks, especially during summer, poses hidden health risks, according to a new study. At least 21 children had to undergo treatment over the last 15 years in the U.K. and Ireland, the ice drinks which contains glycerol.  The new study was published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood suggests that safety guidelines for glycerol-containing slush ice drinks require revisiting, after reviewing medical notes of 21 children who became acutely unwell shortly after drinking slushies. The children showed a cluster of symptoms linked to glycerol intoxication syndrome, soon after drinking a slush ice drink. The affected children exhibited reduced consciousness, a sudden sharp drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and a build-up of acid in the blood (metabolic acidosis). The researchers noted that such symptoms occurring together is a sign of poisoning or inherited metabolic disorders.