Describe the different roles of aldosterone and cortisol in the body

Both aldosterone and cortisol are produced in the adrenal cortex of the adrenal gland (which are situated above the kidneys on either side of the body). 

Aldosterone is a mineralocorticoid and helps to control the concentrations of sodium and potassium in the body. 

Cortisol is a glucocorticoid and helps to maintain the concentrations of carbohydrates and proteins in the body, and it is also released as part of the stress response. Too much cortisol can cause many problems in the body, such as Cushings syndrome. 

(OCR BIOLOGY A2)