What are the main functions of the kidneys?

The kidneys are vital organs that play a key role in maintaining normal body functions. These bean-shaped structures carry out multiple functions such as filtering blood, balancing bodily fluids, and regulating various critical functions. That is why, keeping your kidneys in peak health assumes importance. Kidney treatment in Ayurveda focuses heavily on maintaining renal health naturally so that your body operates at peak conditions.

Key Functions of Kidneys:

1. Filtration of Blood

The first picture that comes to everyone’s mind when one talks about key renal functions is the filtration of blood. Kidneys are responsible for filtering blood and removing waste products. Our kidneys has close to one million tiny filtration units called nephrons. These tiny filters have a glomerulus and a tubule, and they collaborate to filter waste, excess substances, and toxins from the bloodstream. Our kidneys are responsible for filtering about 50 gallons of blood daily and removing waste products such as urea, creatinine, and ammonia, which are byproducts of protein metabolism. These waste products, in the form of urine, are excreted from the body.

2. Regulation of Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

Maintaining the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance is another function often associated with kidneys. By adjusting the concentration of urine based on hydration levels, our kidneys keep a check on the fluid levels in the body. To further concretize this point, the kidneys conserve water by producing concentrated urine when we are dehydrated.

In addition to regulating water levels in the body, the kidneys manage electrolyte levels in the body by managing minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By fine-tuning the levels of these electrolytes, the kidneys maintain the smooth functioning of the body functions.

3. Regulation of Blood Pressure

Not many people know but our kidneys also help manage blood pressure. A drop in blood pressure stimulates the production of an enzyme called renin, which causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure. This mechanism helps our bodies respond to changes in blood volume and pressure, maintaining cardiovascular health.

4. Excretion of Metabolic Waste

In addition to filtering blood, the kidneys excrete various metabolic waste products and toxins like urea, creatinine, ammonia, drugs, and toxins. By efficiently eliminating these toxins, our kidneys ensure there is no toxin accumulation in the body.

5. Regulation of Acid-Base Balance

The kidneys are crucial in keeping our blood’s pH around the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45. Kidneys help reabsorb bicarbonate (a base) and excrete hydrogen ions (an acid) as and when needed. By balancing these components, acidosis (excess acidity) or alkalosis (excess alkalinity) is prevented.

6. Production of Hormones

A lot of us have this misconception that kidneys are engaged in filtration only; they also function as endocrine glands, producing hormones such as Erythropoietin (EPO), Calcitriol, and renin.

7. Detoxification and Drug Metabolism

The kidneys detoxify the body by excreting drugs and other chemicals. They are in charge of removing substances like antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other medications from the body.

8. Maintenance of Osmolarity

Osmolarity, in simple words, means a concentration of solutes in bodily fluids. The kidneys regulate osmolarity by controlling the process via which excretion and reabsorption of water and solutes happen in the body.

9. Support for Overall Homeostasis

By carrying out these functions in an effective manner, the kidneys massively contribute to the body’s overall homeostasis. By maintaining the right levels of nutrients, electrolytes, and fluids, as well as regulating blood pressure and supporting immune health, the kidneys support homeostasis.

Conclusion

A wide range of critical functions to keep the body healthy and balanced are carried out by our kidneys and that is why, their health is strongly connected to our overall health. From filtering blood and removing waste to regulating blood pressure, producing essential hormones, and maintaining electrolyte balance, their indispensable contribution leads to the normal functioning of the body. Protecting kidney health through proper hydration, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive use of harmful substances is vital for improved health.