How does ADH help control water loss in the body?

ADH (anti-diuretic hormone) is a hormone that is released by the brain. It is released if there is too much water loss via the kidneys, if this occurs, then the pituitary gland releases ADH into the bloodstream. When ADH arrives at the kidneys, it causes the kidney nephrons to become more permeable, this allows for water reabsorption and prevents excess water loss. If there is more water than what is needed in the body, then this is detected by the brain and causes the pituitary gland to release less ADH and causes less reabsorption of water in the nephrons, causing a reduction in the amount of water in the body.This process is known as osmoregulation and ADH acts as a negative feedback, making sure that the amount of water in the body is not too high or not too low.

AC
Answered by Alvin C. Biology tutor

10362 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the effect of an increase in ADH production on the kidney and on the composition of urine.


What are the main components of blood and explain their functions.


How are veins and arteries adapted to the transport of blood?


What is the difference between excretion and egestion? Name three major organs of excretion in humans, the substances they excrete and the function of this excretion.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning