It forms part of more than 70 body enzymes and helps the body use carbohydrate, protein and fat. Birth defects and retarded growth during childhood. Appetite loss, decreased sense of taste and smell, skin changes and reduced resistance to infection are also symptoms. Meat, liver and seafood are the best sources. Whole-grain products, wheat bran, legumes and soybeans are good sources.
Chloride helps regulate fluids in and out of body cells.
It forms part of stomach acid to help digest food and absorb nutrients. It also helps transmit nerve impulses. Rare, as chloride is found in table salt. Heavy, persistent sweating, chronic diarrhea or vomiting, trauma or kidney disease may cause deficiencies. It also helps maintain normal blood pressure, transmit nerve impulses and contract muscles.