Chloride regulates the water and electrolyte balance and is vital for the formation of stomach acids.
Chloride: In Depth
The human body contains about 120 g of chloride. Chloride, like sodium, is dissolved in the extra cellular fluids and is vital for the maintenance of the acid-base balance. Chloride regulates the water balance and electrolyte neutrality along with potassium and sodium. It is a component of brain and spinal-cord fluids as well as digestive juices e.g. it forms stomach acids with hydrogen which are important for digestion. (HCl).
Chloride: Requirements, deficiency and oversupply
Similar to sodium deficiency, a chloride deficiency can be caused by excessive sweating or constant vomiting which can lead to malfunctioning of the acid-base balance, muscle cramps and heart problems.
Excessive chloride is excreted with the help of the kidneys.
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Chloride in Foods
Chloride is usually consumed in the form of cooking salt (NaCl) which also contains sodium.
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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Vitamins and Minerals, 3rd Edition, Alan H. Pressman, Sheila Buff
Understanding Nutrition, Update (with 2010 Dietary Guidelines), Eleanor Noss Whitney, Sharon Rady Rolfes
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