Here's how I deal in downing the vile epsom salt. I mix it with apple juice. I keep gulping until it's all down. If I can get past thef first gag, it's not so bad. I've tried the straw, but that just prolongs my suffering. If I take one sip at a time, then I gag more. Also, after I drink the Epsom Salt mixture, I rub toothpaste around my mouth and rinse it out. That gets the taste out of my mouth quickly. I also was quite surprised by how gross Epsom Salt was with my first flush!!