Chloride

What is chloride? It is an essential electrolyte and mineral that helps to regulate fluids, digestion and nerve function.

What does chloride do in the body?

• Helps to regulate body fluids, electrolyte and acid-base (pH) balance
• Produces hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for digestion
• Needed for nerve signaling and muscle contraction

Symptoms of Too Little Chloride:

• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Dehydration

Groups at Risk of Deficiency:

• Excessive vomiting
• Diuretics
• Excessive sweating
• Kidney issues

Symptoms of Too Much Chloride (usually from excess salt):

• High blood pressure
• Thirst
• Acid-base imbalance

Just Right (adults):

• Recommended 1000 – 1200 milligrams/day
• One gram of salt provides about 600 milligrams of chloride

Medication Interactions

(consult your doctor)

No known interactions

Food Sources

Table Salt – major contributor to chloride intake

Processed Foods – very high salt content

Plant

• Seaweed
• Celery 
• Tomatoes 
• Olives
• Rye

Cooking tip:

Use herbs, spices, citrus and natural umami flavors to reduce reliance on salt and to lower chloride intake.

Reference: Chloride in diet: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia