Long Term LT:

I can explain the structure and the

functions of the different parts of
the Urinary System.
 Supporting Targets:
1. I can explain the structure of the
different parts of the urinary system.
2. I can explain how the kidneys
function to regulate the amount of
water and salts in the body.
3. I can explain through a simulation
how the kidney functions.
4. I can explain the functions of the
different parts of the Urinary System.
What is the role of the
KIDNEYS?
The kidneys maintain our body's water
balance by controlling the water
concentration of blood plasma.

The kidneys also control salt levels in

the body and the excretion of urea.

They produce urine by filtering the

wastes and extra water from the blood.
 For the cells of our body to work
properly, it is important that their
water content is maintained at the
correct level. This means our body
must maintain a balance between
the water we take in and the water
we lose. This is done by the
kidneys.
 How is water balance maintained?
The kidneys maintain our water balance by
producing urine of different
concentrations.
When the water level of our blood plasma
is low, more water is reabsorbed back into
the blood and the urine becomes more
concentrated.
When the water level of our blood plasma
is high, less water is reabsorbed back into
the blood and our urine is more dilute.
 Why is urine
sometimes darker
yellow than normal?
 Darker urine is usually a sign that
you're not drinking enough fluid. Your
body needs a certain amount of fluid
to function, so the body will hold on
to fluid and the urine will become
very strong and concentrated. When
that happens, it will turn a darker
color.  
Kidney stones usually comprise of a
compound called calcium oxalate, are the
result of an accumulation of dissolved
minerals on the inner lining of the kidneys.
These deposits can grow to the size of a
golf ball while maintaining a sharp,
crystalline structure.
 What causes kidney stones?

The leading cause of kidney stones is a lack

of water. Stones commonly have been
found in those that drink less than the
recommended eight to ten glasses of water
a day. When there is not enough water to
dilute the uric acid (a component of urine),
the environment in the kidneys is
conducive to the formation of kidney
stones. 
 How to have
healthy kidneys?
 Staying hydrated will help your
kidneys function properly. Your
urine should have a light yellow
colour. If not, it means that you are
dehydrated.
During hot weather in the summer,
you need to drink more water
than usual to make up for the fluid
lost by sweating.
 Eat healthy
A balanced diet ensures you get all the
minerals and vitamins your body needs. Eat
plenty of fruit and vegetables and grains,
such as wholewheat pasta, bread and rice.
Take less salt
More salt leads to dehydration in your body.
This in turn affects your kidney functioning.
Don't smoke or drink too much
alcohol
Smoking and drinking too much
alcohol means that your kidneys
have to work harder to remove
toxins from your blood.
 Check your blood pressure
Have your blood pressure checked
regularly. Raised blood pressure 
can increase your risk of kidney
problems.
 Keep slim to help your kidneys

Being too heavy raises your blood pressure,

which is bad for your kidneys. Try to keep
yourself at a healthy weight by keeping active
and not overeating.
Exercise regularly by walking, cycling or
swimming.