Your kidneys do more for you than you realize. They play an essential role processing food and in your overall wellbeing. These bean-shaped organs help your body function properly. Learn more about them and visit your doctor to learn how to take care of them like they take care of you. Here we share some interesting facts about this unique pair.
1. Your kidneys pump more than 50 gallons of blood per day
Your kidneys may be small, but they work like giants for your health and wellbeing! These two organs are responsible for eliminating waste and excess fluid from your body by filtering them from your blood. Your need clean blood to live, and they are the ultimate filter for the job. Your kidneys filter about 52 gallons (200 liters) of blood on any given day!
2. Your kidneys regulate sodium levels in your body
Besides filtering waste from your blood, your kidneys also help regulate the levels of sodium in your body. However, keep in mind that it is possible to consume more salt than what your kidneys can safely eliminate from your body. Salt is essential for your organism to function correctly, but in excessive amounts, it can be harmful and may lead to heart disease, strokes, and even kidney failure. Keep an eye on your sodium intake!
3. Your kidneys can sometimes serve as a replacement for other organs
Kidneys have the ability to generate vitamin D in your body. This function is usually performed by the skin when it is exposed to sunlight. However, if your skin fails to fulfill its task, it falls on the liver to do it, and if your liver fails, the kidneys take over. Way to come to the rescue!
4. It is possible to live with only one kidney
Most humans are born with 2 kidneys. However, if one of the kidneys is removed due to certain health problems, the body only loses 25% of its expected renal function. Thanks to hypertrophy, the remaining kidney continues supporting the body and working twice as hard.
5. Your kidneys produce urine
Kidneys are part of the body’s urinary system and, as such, they produce urine from urea, water, and other waste products. The liquid flows from the renal tubules, which are located inside the nephrons, to two ducts known as the ureters. Then, the ureters release the urine into the bladder, and we already know what happens from that point. But if problems arise, urine could back up and cause renal infections. Additionally, if the minerals in the urine become crystallized, they can form kidney stones.
Now you know a little bit more about this dynamic duo in your body. Care for them like they deserve by keeping your sodium intake under control and drinking the recommended amount of water, no more and no less. And remember to visit your preferred nephrologist if you need a checkup or suspect you may be having kidney problems.
