Most people know that a major function of the kidneys is to remove waste products and excess fluid from the body. These waste products and excess fluid are removed through the urine. The production of urine involves highly complex steps of excretion and re-absorption.
What is excreted from the kidneys?
The most common waste products are urea and creatinine, but there are many other substances that need to be eliminated. The kidneys act as very efficient filters for ridding the body of waste and toxic substances, and returning vitamins, amino acids, glucose, hormones and other vital substances into the bloodstream.
What are the 4 main functions of the kidney?
Their basic functions include:
- Regulation of extracellular fluid volume. The kidneys work to ensure an adequate quantity of plasma to keep blood flowing to vital organs.
- Regulation of osmolarity. ...
- Regulation of ion concentrations. ...
- Regulation of pH. ...
- Excretion of wastes and toxins. ...
- Production of hormones.
