Taken directly from the article, “Sodium-A
Comprehensive Analysis”, There are 3 primary hormones to discuss in the
regulation of sodium. They are aldosterone, renin, and vasopressin, also known as,
Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH). According to the article, “Vitamins and Health
Supplements Guide”, aldosterone is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal
cortex, and is very important for keeping humans alive. Aldosterone is
responsible for preserving salts in our body and keeping fluids in. An
abnormally high level of this hormone causes sodium retention. Aldosterone acts
directly on the kidney to decrease the rate of sodium-ion excretion, and to
increase the rate of potassium-ion excretion. Aldosterone diminishes the
secretion of sodium (Na+) ions and therefore of water and stimulates the
secretion of potassium (K+) ions through the kidneys. Aldosterone is the main
sodium-retaining hormone from the adrenal gland. It increases the reabsorption
of sodium and water along with the excretion of potassium in the distal tubes of
the kidneys. Alvin Hopkinson from Ezine Articles states, “Even though the
adrenal glands generate the aldosterone, the kidneys regulate it by releasing
the renin enzyme and the angiotensin hormone.” Further Renin helps regulate the bodys arterial blood pressure. And finally vasopressin helps "influence resorption of water by the kidney tubules, resulting in concentration
of urine."(Saunders)
