The kidneys are two jellybean-shaped organs, each about the size of a fist. They are located near the center of the back, just below the thorax. First of all the kidneys are a filtration system, each consisting of a million small units called nephron units. They process about 200 quarts of blood per day and remove about 2 quarts of waste and excess fluid in the form of urine. Urine reaches the bladder through two tubes called ureters and is stored there until you go to the bathroom. Waste comes from the breakdown of the food you consume and from normal muscle activity. In addition to removing waste and fluid from your body, the kidneys have the following important jobs: 1) regulating the body’s water and other chemicals in the blood, such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium; 2) removing drugs and poisons from your body. Third, they release hormones into the bloodstream to help your body: 1) regulate blood pressure; 2) produce red blood cells; and 3) build strong bones.