March 11 is World Kidney Day. Health organizations around the world are promoting the proper care and use of kidneys. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs in the lower back of the abdomen. Most people know that the kidney produce urine by clearing toxins from the blood. What most people do not know is that the kidneys also perform functions in the circulatory (blood) and endocrine (hormone) system.
These beans are kidney-shaped
A gland called the adrenal gland sits atop each kidney. The hormones that the adrenal glands produce aid in blood pressure, electrolyte balance, and even fat metabolism, among other things. Without adrenal glands, the entire body would be in trouble. And, when there is trouble, it is the adrenal glands that produce adrenaline, the super-human hormone credited with saving many lives.
Adrenaline junkies may suffer a whole other kind of kidney damage
Kidneys also produce a hormone called erythropoietin. It tells the bone marrow to begin the production of red blood cells. The kidneys also help in retaining the water-soluble vitamins, keeping them at a healthy level. So they don't just filter out toxins in urine.
The kidneys have very delicate blood vessels throughout. These blood vessels can be affected by high blood pressure and diabetes. So, while most people focus on their heart health when thinking of obesity, care to the kidneys of an overweight or obese person must also be emphasized.
- Drink enough water. (Over-hydrating has its own risks.)
- Keep your blood glucose (sugar) levels normal.
- Exercise to keep your blood pressure normal.
- Follow the directions of your health care provider if you do have diabetes, high blood pressure, or any other condition dangerous to your kidneys.
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