> pulmonologists rarely even allow distilled water when the risk of
> pernicious silent aspiration is present and what liquid could be more
> "clear"?

Ah! "Clear" is not "normal" in a chemistry definition sense. Distilled
water is pH 7.0 with a very different osmolarity/osmolality (like, none
if it is distilled) than a "normal" fluid, and certainly from
breastmilk. Normal values for blood pH is accepted as 7.35-7.45, a very
narrow range. Breastmilk? Ah, well...

Since I've mentioned this now in 2 postings today, I got up off my duff
and looked it up in Jelliffe's Human Milk in the Modern World (out of
print).

From the chapter, Biochemical Considerations, pg. 45, "A recent study in
the U.K. showed the following pH levels: breast-milk 7.29, cow's milk
6.57, and various formulas 6.4-6.97 (Barrie, H et al. 1975. Lancet, i,
1330. Milk for babies.)"

Pulmonologists (and anesthesiologists) are appropriately concerned about
low (acidic) pH fluids in the lungs. The concern and advice re:
distilled water is well taken, IMO. But it is not breastmilk.

I also like the quote that starts the chapter, but I'll post it
separately.

Katharine West, BSN, MPH
Sherman Oaks, CA