Chloride is a compound consisting of two elements, one of which is always chlorine.
Chloride is essential for maintaining acid-base, electrolyte and fluid balance in the body.
It also plays an important role in digestion, because it is a key component of hydrochloric acid found in the stomach. Other good sources include sea salt, seaweed, soy sauce, olives and rye. Many processed foods also contain large amounts of chloride. Chloride deficiency can be caused by fluid loss as a result of excessive sweating, vomiting or diarrhea. Increased chloride intake can also cause fluid retention, but this is primarily caused by the sodium contained in salt.