The kidneys: two 150-gram filters to protect before it's too late

November 8, 2026

The kidneys are about the size of a fist and weigh around 150 grams each. They are located in the back, on either side of the spine, under the ribs. They are extraordinary treatment plants: every day, all the blood in the body passes through them dozens of times. And when they become damaged, they often do so silently, until the day dialysis is needed, a costly treatment that is difficult to access in many countries.

How a kidney works

Each kidney contains about one million small filters, called nephrons. Blood enters them, water and small molecules pass through the filter, then the kidney recovers what is useful (water, sugar, salt, minerals) and lets the waste pass out in the urine. Out of about 180 liters filtered per day, only about 1.5 liters of urine remain.

The kidneys are also glands: they produce erythropoietin (EPO) and activate vitamin D.

What damages the kidneys

High blood pressure and diabetes: these are the two leading causes of kidney failure worldwide, and in Africa.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen) taken often or for long periods, especially in cases of dehydration.
Certain decoctions and herbal mixtures of unknown composition, and certain skin-lightening products containing mercury.
Severe dehydration: diarrhea, working in the heat without drinking.
Certain infections (severe malaria, untreated HIV, recurrent urinary tract infections), sickle cell anemia, and genetic factors that are more common in people of African descent.

Tests to monitor the kidneys

Two simple tests are often enough: creatinine in the blood (which allows the filtration rate to be calculated) and testing for protein in the urine (dipstick or microalbuminuria). Anyone with high blood pressure or diabetes should have them done at least once a year.

🚨 See a doctor if: your feet, ankles, or eyelids swell, you urinate much less, your urine becomes very foamy or contains blood, you feel intense fatigue with nausea and itching, or severe back pain with fever.

✅ Protect your kidneys: control your blood pressure and blood sugar, drink enough water (especially when it is hot), limit salt and bouillon cubes, avoid anti-inflammatory drugs without medical advice, be wary of herbal mixtures, do not smoke, and have a follow-up blood test every year if you are at risk.

General information article written by the Mubina Essence team. It does not replace medical advice. Have a question? Write to us on WhatsApp.

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