What Doctors Want You to Know About Slushie Syndrome
Enjoying a slushie on a hot day is a cherished childhood memory for many of us. However, recent research has linked this icy-cold sweet treat to a dangerous syndrome in children, with symptoms appearing as quickly as an hour after consumption.
Glycerol intoxication syndrome, as it is called, was identified in almost two dozen children in the UK and Ireland, leading to concerns among parents about the safety of letting their kids have slushies. Experts from Women’s Health delved into the study to provide insights into these sugary drinks.
Key findings from the study, which was published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, revealed that 21 children aged between two and six fell ill and required hospitalization shortly after consuming slushies. All these children developed similar symptoms attributed to glycerol intoxication syndrome.
This discovery is significant, prompting the study’s authors to stress the importance of awareness among clinicians, parents, and public health bodies. They recommended caution, especially for children under eight years old, advising them to avoid slush ice drinks containing glycerol.
Glycerol intoxication syndrome can occur after ingesting glycerol, a common ingredient in sugar-free or low-sugar slushies. Glycerol prevents the ice in slushies from freezing completely, providing the desired slushy consistency without high sugar content.
Symptoms experienced by affected children included decreased consciousness, severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and metabolic acidosis. These symptoms typically manifested within an hour after consuming slushies containing glycerol.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, occurs when glucose levels in the blood drop below healthy levels. This condition can lead to various symptoms, ranging from shakiness and jitteriness to loss of consciousness or seizures.
Fortunately, the children who developed glycerol intoxication syndrome in the study recovered without recurring symptoms once they stopped consuming slushies.
The underlying cause of this syndrome appears to be related to glycerol, a sweet-tasting substance commonly found in certain types of slushies.
According to Dr. Shirel Stetson, an assistant professor of pediatrics at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, glycerol is a thick liquid that the body absorbs quickly. However, excessive amounts can disrupt normal metabolic processes, potentially leading to illness in children. Glycerol was introduced into beverages as a substitute for sugar, but it may inadvertently cause hypoglycemia in kids, especially younger ones, as noted by Dr. Gina Posner, a pediatrician at MemorialCare Medical Group in Fountain Valley, CA.
When it comes to consuming slushies, caution is advised for children under eight, particularly with sugar-free varieties. Dr. Posner suggests opting for sugar slushies instead and limiting the amount given to children. Those with diabetes, metabolic disorders, or a history of hypoglycemia should be extra careful, says Dr. Stetson.
Dr. Ashanti Woods, a pediatrician at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, recommends parents consider the nutritional value of their child’s snacks and be cautious about what they consume. While the study discussed focuses on children, Alan notes that cases are relatively rare.
For adults, consuming slushies is generally safe, but moderation is key. Alan advises choosing smaller portions to avoid potential harm.
