What is one of the roles of the kidneys in the human body?

The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining the body’s internal environment, particularly in the regulation of fluids and electrolytes, as well as the removal of waste products. One of the key functions of the kidneys is the removal of urea, which is a byproduct of protein metabolism. Urea is produced in the liver when proteins are broken down, and it enters the bloodstream where it is eventually filtered by the kidneys.

Once in the kidneys, urea is excreted from the body through urine. This process is crucial for preventing the accumulation of waste products in the bloodstream, which can be harmful to the body. By removing urea and other waste products, the kidneys help to maintain the balance of fluids, electrolytes, and the overall pH of the blood, ensuring that the body functions properly.

Other options like producing bile, pumping blood, and digesting proteins do not relate to kidney function, as bile production occurs in the liver, blood pumping happens in the heart, and protein digestion is primarily a function of the digestive system.