Homeostasis

Definition

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms regulate their internal environment to maintain a stable, constant condition, despite changes in the external environment. It involves various physiological processes that balance inputs and outputs of substances and energy.

Related terms

Negative Feedback Loop: A process that counteracts changes in the body’s systems to maintain homeostasis.

Thermoregulation: The ability of an organism to keep its body temperature within certain boundaries, even when surrounding temperatures are different.

Endocrine System: A collection of glands that produce hormones which regulate metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, and mood among other things