Chloride dietary mineral

Chloride is formed when chlorine gas dissolves in water but is also a dietary mineral needed by the body for optimum health.

Chloride is required for

Chloride in the diet works with potassium and sodium, the two electrolytes, to control the flow of fluid in blood vessels and tissues, as well as regulating acidity in the body, and also forms part of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Deficiency of chloride

A deficiency of chloride is extremely rare and unlikely to occur but a deficiency of chlorine in the body may cause excessive loss of potassium in the urine, weakness and lowered blood pressured.

Dosage

The dosage underneath is the (RDA), but be aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

A high concentration of chloride in the body may result in fluid retention, but sodium is normally the culprit for the retention.

When more may be required

When you suffer from vomiting, diarrhea and excessive sweating you might be in need of extra chlorine.

Other interesting points

The chlorine in tap water, used for purification, normally evaporates when boiled.

Food sources

Chloride is found in table salt as well as kelp, olives, tomatoes, celery etc.