Chlorine

Type: Lesser Element
Periodic Element: (Cl)
RDA: Not established; normal diet contains 3-9g

Importance- To Body:
Ionic Clorine (Cl^–) is the most abundant negative ion (anion) in extracellular fluid.

With sodium, helps maintain osmotic pressure and pH of extra cellular fluid; required for HCI formation by stomach glands; activates salivary amylase; aids in transport of CO2 by blood.
Distribution- In Body:
0.2 Approx. % of Body Mass
Exists in body almost entirely as chlorine ion; principal anion of extracellular fluid; highest concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid and gastric juice; excreted in urine.
Excess Effects:
Vomiting
Deficiency Effects:
Severe Vomiting or Diarrhea leads to Cl loss and Alkalosis; Muscle cramps; Apathy.
Sources Food:
Table salt (as for sodium); usually ingested in excess
Sources Environmental/Geographic:
None listed
Supplement Information: