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Chlorine & Magnesium Deficiency

Chlorine and magnesium are found in many foods consumed by humans. However, if a person does not consume enough of these elements in his daily diet, physiological changes may occur. Although they can be serious, deficiencies of magnesium and chlorine are rare, as an average diet will provide more than enough of both.

  1. Chlorine Deficiency

    • According to researchers at Northwestern university, a normal diet provides more than enough chlorine--in the form of sodium chloride, or salt. However, in cases of dehydration from excessive sweating, vomiting or diarrhea, the body's chlorine balance may be compromised. The effects are usually not as severe as other effects of dehydration, but they are still a concern. Effects may include fatigue and low blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness or fainting.

    Magnesium Deficiency

    • Magnesium, like chlorine, is found in many foods. Magnesium deficiency can be the result of dehydration, but it can also be indicative of autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn's disease. The National Institutes of Health notes that major symptoms of magnesium deficiency are fatigue and loss of appetite--though as the deficiency increases, more severe symptoms such as numbness, seizures, heart irregularities and even personality changes, can occur.

    Chlorine Sources

    • Salt is the primary source of chlorine for most people. Most processed foods contain small to large amounts of salt, amounts that are usually enough to avoid the need for supplementation. A minuscule amount of chlorine can be found in tap water, but it is not a significant source.

    Magnesium Sources

    • Magnesium can be found in most leafy vegetables and legumes, such as beans and peanuts. True nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, are also excellent sources. Milk and dairy products often contain small but significant amounts of magnesium. Eating a diet rich in these foods should be enough to prevent magnesium deficiency. With the exception of fish, meats are generally not rich in magnesium.

    Considerations

    • If deficiency of magnesium or chlorine is suspected, one's diet should be altered to compensate. If symptoms are severe or if they do not improve after a change in diet, see a doctor immediately.

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