What is the function of aldosterone?

Aldosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance within the body, particularly in the regulation of sodium and potassium levels in the blood. It is a mineralocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex in response to signals such as low blood pressure or low sodium levels.

When aldosterone is released, it acts primarily on the renal tubules of the kidneys, promoting the reabsorption of sodium and the excretion of potassium. This function not only helps to increase sodium levels in the bloodstream, which can lead to an increase in blood volume and blood pressure, but it also aids in maintaining the proper balance of electrolytes in the body. Thus, aldosterone is essential for fluid and electrolyte homeostasis.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of aldosterone. For example, insulin sensitivity is more closely related to insulin and factors affecting glucose metabolism. The stimulation of digestion is primarily the function of hormones like gastrin and secretin, and bone growth is influenced more by hormones such as growth hormone and sex steroids rather than aldosterone.