Potassium, magnesium and phosphorous are the dominant ions in the cell but in the extra-cellular fluid sodium, chloride and bicarbonate are the main ions. Our table salt is sodium chloride and when it is dissolved in water there are sodium ions and chloride ions.

The uses of chloride include:

• Chloride is an important anion of the extra-cellular fluid and its main function is the regulation of acid-base balance.

• It also plays a vital role in maintaining the equilibrium of osmotic pressure in the extra- and inter-cellular compartments.

• Moreover, the very important acid in our stomach is hydrochloric acid which also contains chloride anions.

• It also plays an important role in the metabolism of bicarbonate in which it diffuses from plasma to erythrocytes to compensate bicarbonates.

The recommended daily-intake is as follows:

AGE                              mg/Tag

Infants:
0 to 12 months            0.3 - 1.2

Children:
1 - 3 years                     0.5 - 1.5
4 to 6 years                 0.7 - 2.1
7 to 9 years                 0.9 - 2.8
10 to 12 years              0.9 - 2.8

Adolescents:
13 to 14 years             0.9 - 2.8
15 to 18 years             0.9 - 2.8

Adults:
Above 19 years          1.7 - 5.1

Pregnant:                 1.7 - 5.1
Breastfeeding:      1.7 - 5.1

Which are the sources of chloride?

Sodium and chloride are almost present together. Potassium chloride is sometimes used as diet salt.