Bowenwork
FAQ
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Chloride
Atomic # 17
Symbol-Cl Atomic Weight-35.4527
Density-0.003214
Chloride is an essential mineral
which accounts for approximately 0.15 percent of our total body weight. This
breaks down to 450 - 600mg of chloride per 100 ml of blood. The highest
concentrations of chloride in the body are found in the erythrocytes with lesser
amounts being found in the skin, reproductive organs, and gastric mucosa. It is
found primarily in extracellular fluids, especially gastrointestinal secretions
and cerebrospinal fluids.
Chloride is part of what makes up hydrochloric acid and also
permits plasma transport of tissue CO2, as bicarbonate, to the lungs
for excretion. It is also important in regulating the body's acid-base
balance.
Chloride is absorbed from the intestines. Excretion is through the
kidneys, primarily as sodium chloride. Some is also lost in sweat and fecal
matter.
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Function |
Essential for all living species. Electro-chemical and
catalytic functions. Basic raw material for our stomachs to make
hydrochloric acid (HCI) for protein digestion (pepsin), B12
absorption, (intrinsic factor) and absorption of metallic minerals. It
activates numerous enzymes. |
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Deficiency can cause |
Disturbances in the acid-base balance. In rats, growth
retardation has been noted. In infants, metabolic alkalosis, hypovolemia,
and significant urinary potassium loss. Psycomotor defects, memory loss,
and growth retardation also occur. All symptoms are alleviated with the
administration of chloride.
Decreased levels are typical of diarrhea, infections, diabetes, and
reduced adrenal function. |
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Toxicity symptoms include |
Elevated levels are seen in kidney and adrenal disorders and
also bowel disfunction. Headaches, dizziness, confusion, and irritability. |
|
Food Sources |
Table salt. Virtually all foods. |
|
Herbal Sources |
Almost all herbs. |
|
RDA*
(Recommended Daily Allowance) |
Infants
thru 0.5
years
180mg
0.5-1
year
300mg
Children
1
year
350mg
2-5
years
500mg
6-9
years
600mg
10-18
years
750mg
Adults
750mg |
*The Nutrition Desk Reference by Robert Garrison, Jr.,
M.A., R.Ph. and Elizabeth Somer, M.A., R.D. (Keats Publishing Company, New
Canaan, Connecticut) 1995, pp. 158.
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