What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis refers to the maintenance of stable internal conditions within an organism, despite fluctuations in the external environment. This vital process allows living beings to regulate parameters such as temperature, pH, hydration, and electrolyte balance, ensuring that their internal environment remains stable and conducive to optimal functioning.

For example, when the body temperature rises due to heat exposure, physiological mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood flow to the skin help cool the body down. Conversely, if the body temperature drops, mechanisms like shivering and reduced blood flow to the skin work to conserve heat. This dynamic balance is critical for the survival of organisms, as it helps them adapt to changing conditions while keeping their biological processes running efficiently.

Homeostasis is distinct from other processes such as aging, reproduction, or growth, which are focused on different aspects of life rather than the regulation of internal stability.