There’s something about an icy, brightly coloured slushy that kids just can’t resist.
Whether it’s a treat after school, a reward for good behaviour, or a must-have at the cinema, slushy’s are a favourite.
But while they may seem like harmless fun, experts warn that slushies come with some serious health risks—especially for young children.
What’s really in that slushy?
Slushy drinks are packed with sugar, artificial colours, and additives to keep them from freezing solid. One of the key ingredients, glycerol, helps maintain that perfect semi-frozen texture—but it turns out, it might not be so harmless.
A study by University College Dublin found that young children who drank too many glycerol-containing slushies experienced nausea, low blood sugar, dizziness, and even loss of consciousness.
In extreme cases, some kids had to be hospitalised and treated with IV fluids.
Sugar overload and artificial additives
Slushies aren’t just a concern because of glycerol. Many are loaded with sugar—often more than a can of fizzy drink. This sugar rush can lead to energy crashes, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
It’s also bad for teeth, especially for younger children whose enamel is still developing.
Even “sugar-free” versions aren’t necessarily better. Many use artificial sweeteners and colours that have been linked to hyperactivity and other health concerns.
Should children drink slushies at all?
The short answer? Occasionally, and with caution.
Children over four are unlikely to experience serious issues from the occasional slushy. But younger children should avoid them altogether, especially in large amounts.
Slushy drinks might be a childhood staple, but they come with risks that parents need to be aware of.
