Kidneys are two bean shaped organs about the size of fist inside the abdomen.
It serves the body as a natural filter of blood. It regulates the balance of electrolytes, fluids and removes waste from body. It is also essential in regulation of blood pressure.
The main functions of kidneys are:
- Excretion of wastes: kidneys excrete urea and uric acid into the urine, which are products of metabolism.
- Reabsorption of vital nutrients, which includes: glucose (at normal plasma level), amino acids, water, sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, calcium, bicarbonate and phosphate.
- Acid-Base homeostasis: which is maintenance of balance between chemical acids and bases, also called body PH.
- Maintenance of Electrolyte-Water balance: which is called plasma osmolarity.
- Hormone secretion: kidneys secrete Erythropoietin (regulates the production of red blood cells in bone marrow), Renin (controls blood pressure) and Calcitriol (active form of vitamin D makes bone stay strong).
Disclaimer: The UCLA Health System cannot guarantee the accuracy of such information. The information is provided without warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please speak to your Physician before making any changes.
