The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located toward the back of the body on either side of the spine near the waistline. They are about the size of a fist and are protected by other organs and two of the lower ribs. Normal functioning kidneys serve the body in several very important ways. They:

• Clean your blood and remove waste products
• Balance water and salt to control fluid in the body
• Control blood pressure
• Help make red blood cells and strong bones
• Control the amount of potassium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus in the blood