Chloride

What is the role of chloride in the body?

Chloride is an abundant and essential mineral in the human body that helps maintain fluid and acid-base balance. Chloride ions contribute to the stomach’s production of hydrochloric acid, which is essential for food digestion.

Chloride sources

Table salt (sodium chloride) is the primary dietary source of chloride. While dietary chloride is readily available in many foods and table salt, excessive consumption of sodium chloride, particularly from added salt, can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

How much chloride do I need?

Ensuring an adequate but not excessive chloride intake is essential for maintaining cardiovascular and overall health.

The adequate intake (AI) for adults aged 19-50 is 2300 mg per day. The AI is 2000 mg per day for individuals over 50 and 1800 mg per day for those over 70.

Note: Chloride intake is closely linked to sodium intake since together they form table salt. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise individuals to consume less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day, with a lower limit of 1,500 mg per day recommended for individuals with hypertension, adults aged 51 and older, and African Americans.

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