What happen when you swallow chloride?
Swallowing chloride in small amounts, typically found in table salt (sodium chloride), is generally not considered harmful. Chloride is an essential electrolyte that plays a role in regulating fluid balance, maintaining proper blood pressure, and facilitating nerve and muscle function in the body. However, consuming excessive amounts of chloride can lead to certain health effects.
1. Electrolyte Imbalance: Excessive chloride intake can disrupt the body's electrolyte balance. This can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and headaches. Severe electrolyte imbalances can cause more serious health problems, including dehydration and irregular heartbeat.
2. Hyperchloremia: Consuming extremely high levels of chloride can result in a condition called hyperchloremia, characterized by abnormally elevated chloride levels in the blood. This condition can lead to metabolic disturbances and can be particularly harmful to individuals with certain underlying health conditions, such as kidney disease or heart failure.
3. Aggravation of Hypertension: Chloride plays a role in regulating blood pressure. Excessive chloride intake can contribute to high blood pressure (hypertension) in individuals who are already predisposed to the condition. This can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes.
4. Salt Sensitivity: Some individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of chloride and salt intake. In such cases, even moderate amounts of chloride can lead to fluid retention, swelling (edema), and high blood pressure.
It's important to maintain a balanced diet and moderate intake of chloride and salt. The recommended daily intake of sodium for adults is 2,300 milligrams (mg). This corresponds to about 5,800 mg of sodium chloride or 2.3 grams of salt per day. However, individuals with certain health conditions or specific dietary recommendations may need to limit their salt intake further.
If you are concerned about your chloride intake or experience any adverse effects after consuming chloride, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual health status and recommend appropriate dietary modifications.