MAIN Health The Human Body Urinary System Kidneys

Although relatively small in size compared to the heart or liver, the kidneys are an exceedingly complex organ, a "super filter" with a great many roles to play in the body.

Their primary role is maintaining the body's homeostatic balance — for example, the amount of acid or salts that build up in the bloodstream. It's an important task they perform by filtering various minerals and metabolites out of the blood, which exit the body via the bladder and urinary system.

Among other functions, the kidneys are in charge of keeping the body's pH balance at an ideal 7.5, along with producing hormones that keep your bones strong.

Another important job kidneys perform is steadying blood pressure, by controlling sodium ions reabsorption into the bloodstream.

Keeping kidneys healthy

The kidneys process upwards of ninety liters of blood every day, and although it's true that we have two kidneys (and that one can do the job), it's a much better idea to keep both as healthy as possible!

One of the most prevalent causes of stress on the kidneys is dehydration, since without supplies of fresh water the kidneys will have to recycle "dirty" fluids, often resulting in infection or kidney stones.

Another common stress on the kidneys is the consumption of too much fatty meat and dairy, both of which strain the kidneys to some degree.

And of course, alcohol is no friend to the kidneys. Too much alcohol, especially drinking to excess, can put large amounts of stress on the kidneys.

In short, drinking plenty of water goes a long way in maintaining proper kidney function, and studies have shown Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C to be beneficial - along with (need we say it?) always striving to maintain a healthy, nutritious diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables.

More about kidneys around the Web:

Your Kidneys and How They Work - Comprehensive guide with information on what the kidneys do and important tasks they perform, common causes of kidney failure and disease, with related diagrams and illustrations.

National Kidney Foundation A-Z Health Guide - How to avoid or treat kidney disease with comprehensive information on diet, nutrition, related infections, kidney stones, kidney failure, dialysis and kidney transplants.

Kidney Infection MayoClinic.com - Facts & information on symptoms, causes and treatment options, along with tips & advice on prevention and home care remedies.

Kidney stone - Wikipedia article on the topic with information on symptoms, causes & cures including related photos, references and resources.

also see in Health & Diseases -> Kidney Cancer | Kidney Stones

Why Summer is Kidney Stone Season