AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Most humans are born with two kidneys as the functional components of what is called the renal system, which also includes two ureters, a bladder and a urethra. The kidneys have many functions, including regulating blood pressure, producing red blood cells, activating vitamin D and producing some glucose.

Detailed explanation-2: -Although most people have two kidneys, you only need one functioning kidney to live an active, healthy life. If you have only one kidney, it’s important to protect it and keep it functioning well because you don’t have a second one to take over if it fails.

Detailed explanation-3: -Thus, we assume that the reason we have two kidneys is so that there is some extra reserve of kidney mass in case we sustain some renal insult (e.g. toxic injury, or traumatic injury). Having said that, about 1 in 1000 individuals are born with one kidney (unilateral renal agenesis).

Detailed explanation-4: -Most people live normal, healthy lives with one kidney. However, it’s important to stay as healthy as possible, and protect the only kidney you have.