The “sodium” ion in the electrolyte is an important cation for the human body, while the “chloride” ion is an important anion. Chloride ions play an important role in regulating physiological functions and it are masters of balance in body functions.

• Three important functions of chloride ion:

1. Maintain cell osmotic pressure: Chloride ions are the most abundant anions in the extracellular fluid.
2. They maintain the total number of osmotic pressure ions, regulate the extracellular fluid volume and maintain osmotic pressure with sodium ions.
3. Regulate the body’s acid-base balance: Chloride ions in the blood are regulated by the kidneys. Chloride ions play an important role in regulating the acid-base balance in the blood. They help gas exchange between tissue cells and capillary walls to balance the pH of the blood.
4. Participate in carbon dioxide transport: Chloride ions affect the concentration of bicarbonate in plasma, and regulate the transport of carbon dioxide in the blood to the lungs and out of the body.

• Chloride ion inbalance causes problems:

1. Chloride ion deficiency: dizziness, nausea, dehydration, diarrhea, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, hair loss, tooth loss, poor muscle contraction, indigestion and other symptoms.
2. Excessive chloride ions: hyperchloric acidosis