Potassium stands out because its concentration in milk exceeds that of calcium, even though calcium is often more emphasized for its well-known benefits, such as supporting bone development in infants and young mammals. In fact, calcium accounts for about 30% of the total mineral content in milk. Potassium, on the other hand, plays a key role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and proper heart function. The high concentration of these minerals in milk highlights the biological precision with which the mammary gland operates to ensure the nourishment of the offspring.
The detailed mineral composition of milk can also be a diagnostic tool. One important application is the detection of udder injuries or infections such as mastitis in dairy cows. In cases of mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland, the composition of milk changes, resembling that of blood more closely. This shift is marked by an increase in sodium and chloride levels, reflecting damage to the tissue barrier that normally regulates mineral transport. Elevated sodium and chloride levels in milk can signal inflammation or infection, helping veterinarians and farmers identify and treat affected cows more efficiently. Early detection and treatment of mastitis are crucial, as this condition not only affects milk quality but also poses health risks to the animal and may lead to decreased milk production. Thus, monitoring milk's mineral content serves both nutritional and health purposes in dairy management.
The Mineral Composition of Milk: Nutritional Value and Diagnostic Insights
