Naturally occurring chlorine exists in the body as chloride. Chlorine helps regulate your body's water balance and acid-base balance, and maintains osmotic pressure (fluid pressure at cell levels). However, chlorine in excess amounts in the body may cause high blood pressure, anemia, hives and shingles.

Table salt is 60% chlorine and salt is also found naturally in many foods. Even the low-sodium diet followed by people with high blood pressure can fulfill the body's chlorine requirements. Also, chlorine, when added to water as a decontaminant, is absorbed through the skin during showering, etc.

Your high chlorine score may be just mirroring the vague symptoms of some of your other imbalances. However, if you think there is any reason that you might be suffering from high chlorine levels (ie, due to environmental factors, etc.), follow these recommendations, and I also recommend a consultation with a holistic doctor (such as a naturopath or homeopath).

If you drink large quantities of chlorinated water, you should begin drinking water that has had the chlorine removed. You can also buy a filter for your shower that will remove most of the chlorine from your bathing water (we do absorb some chlorine through our skin).

Do not go on a liquid fast when cleansing your body of chemical contaminants because the fast may cause them to enter the bloodstream too quickly for your body to eliminate. For about a week eat a diet consisting of mainly fresh vegetables, vegetable juices, non-chlorinated water and brown rice -- to help cleanse the chlorine from your system. Eat no fried foods, meats, dairy products (except yogurt) or sweet foods. A green food supplement (available at your health food store) would be a good addition to your diet. To strengthen your immune system, take a good antioxidant supplement formula, also available at your health food store.

Your liver and kidneys are your body's filtering system and may be affected by any chemical or metal toxicity. To cleanse your liver and kidneys, drink a glass of water with two to three teaspoons of lemon juice first thing in the morning.