Nearly all of the children in the study -- 94% -- experienced a drop in consciousness, 95% had dangerously low blood sugar, and 94% developed a buildup of acid in the body. Other symptoms included low potassium levels, excessive fat levels in the blood, and high levels of glycerol in the urine.

Across the UK and Ireland in recent years, there has been an increase in kids becoming seriously ill soon after drinking sugar-free slushies. A new study has pointed the finger at glycerol, a compound that’s used as a sugar substitute and,

Bright, multi-coloured, fruit-flavoured slushie ice drinks sold in cinemas, parks and soft-play settings are made to appeal to children. However, in recent years there have been numerous reports of children taking ill after consuming sugar-free versions of them, which contain glycerol.

Powered by North Mississippi Health Services. Doctors say public health advice on the safe consumption of the popular drinks - known as "slushees" - may need further revising following a recent spike in cases.

A thorough review of 21 cases involving acutely ill children associated with these products raises concerns. Researchers suggest that public health guidelines on the safe consumption of glycerol-containing slush ice drinks,