The Wellness Report
Kidneys

Kidneys

The urinary system operates as a valuable tool in maintaining the homeostasis of the blood system. In its filtration process, the system serves by regulating the composition and volume of the blood, removing wastes from it and excreting them in the form of urine. In addition to their excretory function, the kidneys also regulate body water and the concentrations of essential electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, chloride, bicarbonate and many biologically valuable organic compounds, such as glucose and amino acids. They also help to regulate body pH.

In order for the complex organs of the system to function properly, the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and other tissues must be properly nourished. Adequate amounts of water and the maintenance of proper sodium, calcium, and magnesium levels is also important.

More about the kidneys
Nutrients, Diet & Lifestyle

Nutrients

VITAMIN D becomes active in the body, after its synthesis in the kidneys. Vitamin D is absorbed in the presence of bile salts, transferred to the kidneys from the liver and synthesized into the most active form of the vitamin, for distribution throughout the body. Vitamin D also plays a role in the absorption of calcium in the intestines and reabsorption by the kidneys.

B COMPLEX vitamins play roles in kidney and endocrine function. Vitamin B-1 is stored and excreted by the kidneys.

VITAMIN B-2 is important as part of the electron transport chain in a series of oxidation-reduction enzyme systems, which include glutamates, amino acids, and beta oxidation of fatty acids.

VITAMIN B-6 is synthesized to its active form in the brain, liver, and kidney and stored in muscle as the major component of the body’s pyridoxine pool.  The active form of B-6 participates as a coenzyme in the synthesis and catabolism of amino acids and metabolites such as dopamine, serotonin and nicotinic acid.  It also serves as a precursor to the enzyme phosphorylase, important in the breakdown of glycogen.

L-GLYCINE is important in the formation of proteins in the body. The kidney converts glycine to serine, which is found in many proteins throughout the body.

L-GLUTAMINE is an amino acid which works to form ammonia in the urine.

Dietary Suggestions

● Try to consume as much raw food as possible, such as, bananas, celery, garlic, papaya, watermelon and asparagus.

● Eat legumes and seeds.

● Drink plenty of steam-distilled water.

● Avoid salt, sugar, caffeine, chocolate and black tea.

● Reduce animal fat and instead consume beans, whole grains, peas and lentils.

● Avoid dairy except for soured products like yogurt or buttermilk.

Lifestyle

● Get regular exercise.

● Avoid alcohol.

●Avoid prescription drugs, aspirin and diuretics.

Kidneys

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