Now that you understand the role of the kidneys, think back to Mary’s story about her experience with impaired kidney function and hemodialysis. How does impaired kidney function impact a person’s health?


Kidneys help maintain our fluid and electrolyte balance; hence, they play a major role in the maintenance of our blood pressure and heart/brain health. Kidneys also filter water-soluble waste products, so if they were not operating normally, for example, nitrogen from breakdown of protein would not get filtered and it would build up to toxic levels. Fluids would also be retained, causing a condition called edema which may possibly lead to a serious health condition known as congestive heart failure. Kidneys synthesize erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to create red blood cells, so the individual with impaired kidney function requires more iron due to loss of RBCs or possibly intermittent blood transfusions. In the body, vitamin D is a hormone that aids in the balance of calcium and phosphorus and can only be activated for function by the kidney. If the individual with limited kidney function does not take vitamin D supplements, then effects of poor calcium/phosphorus may arise, such as osteomalacia and osteopenia.

Nutritional Science

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Joe is leaving for a party where he and his friends will be drinking alcohol. What advice would you give Joe to delay absorption of alcohol into his bloodstream and prevent rapid intoxication?

A. Joe should keep his stomach empty by avoiding food for at least 4 hours before he starts drinking alcohol. B. Joe should eat a light snack of vegetables with a fat-free ranch dressing. C. Joe should consume two cups of coffee to prevent feeling sick or getting a hangover. D. Joe should eat a substantial meal that includes some fat and protein to help delay the arrival of alcohol into the small intestine.

Nutritional Science

_______________ is involved in energy metabolism; synthesis of DNA, RNA, and NADPH+H+; and nerve function

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

Nutritional Science

Which phrase is the best definition of culture?

a. the beliefs, attitudes, values, and practices of a community of individuals b. the influence of physical geography and climate on a person's choices c. the ability to select and enjoy fine food, art, and leisure d. a lifestyle that is determined by the country in which a person was born e. the identity associated with shared behavior patterns

Nutritional Science

The energy-yielding nutrients are __________.

What will be an ideal response?

Nutritional Science