Final answer:
ADH (antidiuretic hormone) conserves water in the body by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys, particularly during dehydration. It is triggered by increased osmolality, often caused by stress, but inhibited by diuretics like alcohol.
Step-by-step explanation:
ADH, or antidiuretic hormone, is essential in the conservation of water during dehydration events in the body. This is true because ADH plays a crucial role in reducing water loss through its action in the kidneys. When the body is dehydrated, ADH secretion is increased, which induces the insertion of aquaporin water channels in the collecting ducts of the kidneys.
This process enhances water reabsorption from urine, thus conserving water and maintaining blood pressure. It is interesting to note that certain factors can influence ADH production; for example, stress increases osmolality, which in turn increases ADH secretion to help retain water. On the contrary, consuming diuretics like alcohol reduces the production of ADH, leading to increased water loss.