Most individuals are aware that one of the kidneys' primary functions is to eliminate waste materials and excess fluid from the body. The urine removes these waste materials and extra fluid. Urine production comprises highly complex excretion and re-absorption steps. This mechanism is required to keep the body's chemical equilibrium steady.

The kidneys are responsible for the vital regulation of the body's salt, potassium, and acid content. In addition, the kidneys create hormones that influence the operation of other organs. A hormone produced by the kidneys, for example, increases red blood cell formation. Other hormones produced by the kidneys aid in blood pressure regulation and calcium metabolism.

The kidneys are chemical factories that carry out the following tasks:

• Eliminate waste from the body.
• Drug removal from the body.
• Fluid equilibrium in the body.
• Hormones that modulate blood pressure are released.
• They create a form of vitamin D that is active and promotes strong, healthy bones.
• They regulate red blood cell production.

More information on the kidneys and the critical role they play in keeping your body running can be found here.