The main function of your kidneys is the production of urine. Other secondary functions involve homeostasis, which consists of control of electrolytes, acid-base balance, and maintenance of blood pressure. When producing urine, kidneys emit wastes in the form of urea and ammonium. Kidneys also re-absorb glucose and amino acids and are important because they secrete hormones including rennin and erythropoietin. Your kidneys are situated behind your abdominal cavity and they receive blood through the renal arteries. Urine is excreted into the urethra from where it is emptied into the bladder. Protein is important for the body as it helps the body to repair muscles and fight against diseases. Your body receives protein from animal products, dairy products, nuts, beans and other foods. After the cells use this protein they excrete wastes into the blood in the form of urea. Healthy kidneys are able to remove this waste from the blood, drain it into the urine and leave in the protein. If your kidneys are damaged they are not able to separate protein from waste and the urea stays in the blood.
Keeping your kidneys healthy and clean is very important for your overall health. If your kidneys seem sluggish, you can help them flush out the waste by consuming enough water per day. Make sure to drink at least one liter of water a day. Be careful when consuming water as too much water can be fatal as it dilutes the salt and electrolyte content in your body and can even lead to death. A daily intake of one to one and a half liter of water is safe and is useful to keep the kidneys healthy. Cranberry juice is also good to flush out the kidneys and protects against urinary tract infections. Another cleansing drink is apple cider vinegar. Although its taste is strong, it is a good cleaning aid and can be used moderately to help clean out the system. Foods that are good for your kidneys include asparagus, cucumbers, garlic, papaya, parsley, celery, and green beans. Eat plenty of fresh vegetables and seasonal fruits. Their water content along with vitamins and minerals are good for your system.
Make sure to get enough exercise. A 30-minute walk everyday is adequate exercise for an adult. Many kidney diseases are caused due to high blood pressure and diseases such as diabetes, exercise cuts down the risk of blood pressure and diabetes and can thereby benefit your kidneys.