When two individuals consume a high salt snack, but only one drinks an alcoholic beverage alongside, their hormonal responses to maintain water balance can differ significantly. Alcohol is known to have a powerful diuretic effect primarily by its action on the hormone antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin.

Alcohol and ADH: The Relationship

• Alcohol inhibits the release of ADH from the posterior pituitary gland.

• ADH normally promotes water reabsorption in the kidneys’ collecting ducts by facilitating water channel insertion, conserving body water.

• When ADH release is inhibited by alcohol, the kidneys decrease water reabsorption, resulting in increased urine production and fluid loss, causing dehydration.pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih+2

Comparing Individuals A and B

• Individual A drank alcohol along with a high salt snack. Because of alcohol’s inhibitory effect on ADH, A will have a lower circulating level of ADH.

• Individual B did not drink alcohol; therefore, normal or slightly elevated ADH levels will be maintained due to the high salt intake, ensuring adequate water conservation.

• Consequently, A experiences more diuresis and potential dehydration than B.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect

• (2) B having lower ADH than A is incorrect; alcohol reduces ADH in A.

• (3) No change in ADH levels is incorrect; alcohol clearly suppresses ADH.

• (4) More water reabsorption in A is incorrect due to alcohol’s diuretic effect.

Conclusion

The correct and physiologically accurate statement is:

(1) A will have lower circulating level of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) than B.