The slushy drinks of the summer might be more dangerous than you think

During the summer time, a refreshing drink is a staple for anyone going through the heat. A considerable amount of consumers are careful about the drinks they choose during the hot months, especially avoiding sugary drinks. In contrast, a large number of consumers often choose the sugar loaded classics: Ice tea, soda, ice lattes, and slushies.

Slushies in particular are very popular with kids, and they are subjected to the potential harmful effects of the popular ice cream drink. 

What are the harmful effects of slushies

Slushies are drinks made of snow-like ice, flavoring agents, and food dye. Among the most popular consumers, kids between the ages of 2 and 6, the dangers are quite concerning. 

Without previous underlying medical conditions, 93% of the kids became unwell within the first hour. The conditions include low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), altered consciousness, lactic acidosis, and low potassium levels in blood (hypokalemia). These acute symptoms lead to even more concerning symptoms like anxiety, weakness, tremors, and fatigue. 

Why are slushies dangerous

The glycerol content in the slushies are considered to be the main reason for the acute symptoms consumers are facing. The “sugar free” versions are especially heavy on the substance. 

Although there is no certain statement about it, the glycerol concentrate in the slushy and the weight of the consumer create the unhealthy condition for the concerning health symptoms. 

Avoiding the now infamous slushy, is the best case scenario for the time being, until more specific research is done on the subject. 

Image by Eryk Piotr Munk via Unsplash