Homeostasis

[ hoh-mee-oh-STAY-sis ]

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable and balanced internal environment despite changes in the external surroundings. It involves a complex set of processes that work together to regulate various physiological variables such as temperature, pH, blood sugar levels, and fluid balance. Through feedback mechanisms, the body continuously monitors these variables and makes adjustments to keep them within a narrow range that is optimal for normal functioning. For example, when body temperature rises, mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood flow to the skin are triggered to cool the body down and maintain a stable temperature. Similarly, when blood sugar levels drop, signals prompt the release of hormones that raise glucose levels back to normal. Homeostasis is crucial for the overall health and proper functioning of the body's cells, tissues, and organs.