Milk is difficult of digestion when swallowed rapidly, because the rennin in the gastric secretions coagulates it the same as it does when added to milk for junket. This curd remains hard and dense in the stomach for some time, causing discomfort and flatulency. Junket is recommended because it can be masticated and the curd broken up, which aids in its digestion.

Many people think they cannot take milk, that it makes them "bilious," that it disagrees with them; in nine cases out of ten it is because they drink it rapidly. If too weak to masticate it, the patient may hold it in the mouth. Water gruels added to the curd, make it more acceptable and more digestible. If the patient is on the back and the head cannot be lifted, give milk and barley water through an adjustable glass tube. The patient in drawing the milk through the tube excites and draws out the secretions of the mouth, which mingle with the milk and aid in its digestion.

The following table gives the comparative composition of different milk:

Human

Cows'

Goats'

Mares'

Fat ..............

33

4.0

4.3

1.1

Sugar (lactose) ..

6.8

4.8

4.0

6.7

Proteids..............

1.8

3.5

4.6

1.9

Ash ..............

0.2

07

0.6

0.3

Composition Of Skimmed Milk

In 100 Parts

Water ....................................................

90.5

Casein and Albumin..........

3.5

Milk fat...........

0.4

Milk sugar........

4.8

Mineral matter............

0.8