The kidneys are remarkable organs that carry out vital work in our bodies yet many don’t realize how important they are.
What are the Kidneys?
The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist that are located just below the rib cage, one on each side of our spine. Each kidney has approximately one million filtering units which filters water, waste, and smaller molecules from the blood allowing larger molecules like proteins and blood cells to stay in the blood vessels. A pair of healthy kidneys filters approximately a half cup of blood every minute, removing waste and extra water. Once filtered, most of the water is then reabsorbed back into the blood along with the minerals and nutrients our body needs. The remaining fluid and waste become urine and are excreted from our bodies. Blood circulates through our kidneys many times a day. Approximately 150 quarts of blood can be filtered through them in a single day.
What do the Kidneys do?
The primary function of our kidneys is to remove extra fluid and waste from the body. Our bodies produce several different kinds of acid that perform a variety of tasks. When there is excess acid produced, it’s the kidney’s job to remove it and maintain a healthy balance of water, salts, and minerals in our blood. This balance must stay intact because, without it, nerves, muscles and other tissues in our bodies may not function properly. This can result in kidney disease which can lead to other health problems. In addition to removing excess substances, our kidneys make hormones that help create red blood cells, control our blood pressure and keep our bones healthy and strong.
Why is it important we talk about the kidneys?
Our kidneys play a major role in the overall health of our bodies. If kidneys don’t function properly, waste will build up in our bodies. This is extremely dangerous because it can result in what is known as Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Unfortunately, it is estimated that 37 million people in the United States have CKD however almost 9 out of 10 have no idea they have it. That is a staggering amount of people unaware of a health condition that can be detrimental to our bodies. It’s important to note that individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure are at an even higher risk of developing CKD.
Awareness and prevention are key.
To keep kidneys functioning properly, we must work with our health care team to develop a plan that fits our lifestyle, mobility, health status, and dietary needs. Additionally, taking all your medications as prescribed by your provider and staying up to date on vaccines helps to keep the kidneys in check. Important to kidney health and overall well-being is working towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle that incorporates healthy habits and includes nutritious foods, physical activity such as walking to manage weight as well as getting enough rest.
If you would like to learn more about maintaining healthy kidneys or have questions, please reach out to us at 1-888-268-4825. Until next time, stay healthy and well.
