The importance of chloride in the body

Chloride is a mineral that is most often found in table salt (NaCl) and processed foods.  Chloride is needed by our bodies to form stomach acid.  The mineral is also needed in order to maintain our bodily fluid levels.  We need to replenish our chloride stores daily because it is routinely secreted through bodily fluids.  A deficiency of chloride is not common, but can be detrimental to our health if not properly maintained over time and in adequate amounts.

Bodily Fluids

Sodium and chloride work together to maintain a healthy level of bodily fluids.  When sodium levels are elevated, so are the chloride levels, and this can lead to increased blood pressure or fluid retention.  An elevated chloride level can also lead to dehydration and, potentially, a visit to the hospital.

Stomach Acid

Stomach acid is made up of hydrochloric acid.  That is why people with reflux may, at times, experience the uncomfortable burning sensation in their throat.  The acid in our stomach breaks down the food that we eat, so if the acid levels are low, this process is drastically slowed.  As a result, the stomach is slow to empty, leaving the person feeling very uncomfortable or like food is “sitting in their chest.”  The slow emptying of the stomach also slows down the metabolism and ultimately leads to gastric reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  Persistent reflux and damaging effects of the stomach acid can also cause tooth decay and destruction of the esophagus.

Chloride is also partially responsible for maintaining the acid-base balance in the stomach.  As food is digested, the pH level changes.  A low pH level in the stomach triggers the release of pepsin, which breaks down the proteins that we eat.  A lack of chloride could inhibit the digestion of proteins which leads to, among other things, muscle breakdown or waste.

As a food relationship expert, I am happy to consult with you and help you to reach your health goals.  Let’s work together and sort through your dietary habits to find what method works best for you.  Send me an email or schedule a consultation.  I’m waiting on you!