Study Links Sugar-Free Slushies to Rare Syndrome in Young Children

Research identifies glycerol in slushies as a cause of hypoglycemia and metabolic issues in kids under eight.

A study reviewed 21 cases of children aged two to six in the UK and Ireland hospitalized after consuming sugar-free slushies containing glycerol.
Symptoms of glycerol intoxication syndrome include unconsciousness, severe hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis, often occurring within an hour of consumption.
Glycerol, used as a sugar substitute in slushies, helps maintain the slush texture but can overwhelm metabolic pathways in young children.
Experts recommend avoiding sugar-free slushies for children under eight and suggest limiting all slushie consumption for kids as a precaution.
While cases are rare, researchers and nutritionists urge clearer public health messaging and stricter regulations to protect children from potential risks.