Why You Shouldn’t Give Marshmallows to Young Kids

Marshmallows, the sugary goodness that many kids go crazy for.

Perhaps not many may expect soft-and-sweet marshmallows to be dangerous but here we are.

TikTok user, @tinyheartseducation, an ex-paramedic and mum shared why she doesn’t give kids under five marshmallows.

@tinyheartseducation This is why marshmallows are such a high risk choking food You can modify marshmallows to make them safer by cutting them into smaller pieces or swap out for mini marshmallows instead Modifying foods is a great way to make foods safer for your little one. Is there a food you’d like to see me prepare? Comment below and let me know #marshmallow #introducingsolids #startingsolids #chokinghazard ♬ Somewhere Only We Know – Gustixa

She demonstrated the different results when attempting to dislodge a grape and a marshmallow.

With the grape, she puts it inside the tube which acted like the airway of a child.

She then proceeded to give a few backblow and it got out of the tube.

She used a wet marshmallow to replicate what happens inside a child’s throat.

Different than the grape which has a smooth surface, the marshmallow becomes sticky when wet.

Due to its stickiness, when she gave the tube a few backblow, the marshmallow did not budge.

According to MedlinePlus, permanent brain damage or death could occur within four minutes without oxygen.

Do Marshmallows Dissolve in Water?

The Tiny Hearts account responded to a comment a user made about marshmallows dissolving in water.

She put it to test with hot water in a glass and put the marshmallow inside the glass.

After ten minutes, the marshmallow was still intact, proving the commenter wrong.

Act Fast and Save a Life

If under any circumstances this does happen, try to get them to cough it out.

Do not try poking a finger inside the throat as this might push the food further inside, making it harder to get it out.

Quickly call for emergency and get your child to a hospital.

Make Marshmallows Safer for Your Child

Marshmallows are soft and sweet; two recipes that often makes a child smile.

Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you should stop giving them marshmallows altogether until they are of a certain age.

You can modify food for the safety of your child.

If they are too big, cut them into quarters.

Another option would be giving them originally smaller sized marshmallows.

Indulge your child’s want for this sugary confectionery safely, parents; you’ve got this!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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