Tag: Glycerol intoxication

Recent studies have shown that slush ice drinks containing glycerol can cause 'glycerol intoxication syndrome' in young children, leading to headaches, low blood sugar, and even loss of consciousness.

Following recent hospitalizations in the UK and Ireland, health authorities have issued strong warnings about the consumption of glycerol-containing slush drinks by young children. This is because glycerol, often used as a sugar substitute, can cause glycerol intoxication syndrome, leading to potentially serious side effects.

In March 2025, a study in the *Archives of Disease in Childhood* found that slush ice drinks containing glycerol can cause serious illness in young children. For a popular sweet treat, the question "Is slush healthy or unhealthy?" has never been more relevant, raising alarms about what exactly is in that icy confection.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), some artificial sweeteners used in sugar-free products are possibly carcinogenic to humans, which has fueled the debate: are sugar-free slushies bad for you? Beyond this classification, new research has highlighted specific health risks associated with the common sugar substitute glycerol, particularly in young children.

According to the CDC, sugary drinks are the leading source of added sugars in the American diet, and slush drinks are often among the worst culprits. So, are slush drinks healthy, or are they a serious health risk disguised as a fun, frozen treat? This article breaks down what you need to know.

According to a study published in the *Archives of Disease in Childhood*, 21 children needed emergency medical treatment after consuming slushies containing glycerol. The findings raise serious questions about how unhealthy are slushies, revealing risks beyond simple sugar overload for young children and detailing concerns for adults as well.

While typically recognized as safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption of glycerol can lead to adverse effects. This is especially true in concentrated forms, and recent cases have highlighted the risk of glycerol intoxication, particularly in young children who consume large quantities from items like slushie drinks.

According to a 2025 BBC report, new guidance advises children under seven to avoid certain slush ice drinks due to the additive glycerol. This raises the question for many parents and consumers: is slush ice unhealthy? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no, depending on ingredients, consumption, and who is drinking it.

According to a study in the *Archives of Disease in Childhood*, 21 children in the UK and Ireland were hospitalized due to glycerol intoxication from slushies between 2018 and 2024. This alarming fact prompts the question: what do slushies do to you and your family, and are they truly harmless?