The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. Each kidney is about the size of a fist and is composed of millions of tiny filtering units called nephrons. These nephrons work tirelessly to perform the following primary functions:

• Filtering Blood: Kidneys filter approximately 50 gallons of blood daily, removing waste products and excess fluids.

• Producing Urine: Filtered waste and excess fluids are excreted as urine.

• Balancing Electrolytes: Kidneys regulate levels of essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium.

• Controlling Blood Pressure: By releasing hormones, kidneys help regulate blood pressure.

• Producing Hormones: They also produce hormones that stimulate red blood cell production and maintain bone health.