In your own words, describe homeostasis. Discuss the importance of homeostasis. Give an example of a physiological process in the body regulated or controlled by a homeostatic mechanism. Describe this physiological process.

Respond to the Classmate’s Discussion to the above Question as you would in a face-to face class by stating why you agree with their discussion and stating your point of view from the classmate’s discussion.

The term “homeostasis” describes a body’s capacity to maintain a constant internal environment in spite of changes to the surrounding environment. This implies that regardless of any changes to the environment, the body is able to control and maintain its internal circumstances within a specific range. An environment that is stable for the body’s cells, tissues, and organs is maintained through homeostasis, which entails a constant process of monitoring, feedback, and response (Vogel, 2020) .

Homeostasis is crucial and cannot be stressed enough. It is essential for the body’s proper functioning and, ultimately, the individual’s survival. Without homeostasis, the body’s stable environment would become unstable and could result in illness, organ damage, and even fatality. The body’s cells, tissues, and organs need oxygen and nourishment to function properly, and homeostasis helps to ensure that they do. Moreover, it helps in eliminating wastes and preserving the body’s pH, temperature, glucose and fluid balance (BioExplorer.net, 2023). 

An example of a physiological process that is regulated by a homeostatic mechanism is the controlling of blood glucose levels. Glucose is important because it is the primary source of energy that your body needs. After consuming carbohydrates, they can be transformed into glucose, which is subsequently transported throughout the blood to all tissues and gives them the energy they require. When the glucose levels are too high or too low, though, it becomes risky. Hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar, is marked by signs including increased thirst, drowsiness, blurred vision, etc. Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is marked by signs like sweating, intense hunger and thirst, uncontrollable shaking, and unsteadiness. 70 to 99 is the range for typical glucose readings. In response to high blood glucose levels, the pancreas secretes insulin, instructing the muscles and liver to take in glucose and convert it to glycogen for storage. On the other hand, when blood glucose levels are low, the pancreas releases glucagon, telling the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream after breaking down glycogen (BioExplorer.net, 2023). 

I learned that hemostasis is crucial to maintaining our bodies’ regular functioning after reading the sources listed below. Hemostasis plays the role of a system’s ability to maintain stability and equilibrium between its internal environment and its external environment. I was surprised to learn that homeostasis affects many other factors, including temperature, glucose levels, and fluid balance.