Understanding Homeostasis
What is Homeostasis?
Homeostasis is the way our body keeps everything balanced and stable, even when things around us change. This set of questions looks at how our body does this.
The Role of Key Organs and Hormones
Kidneys: Our Body’s Filter
The kidneys help filter our blood, removing waste and keeping the right amount of water and minerals. They are essential for staying healthy.
Hormones: The Body’s Messengers
Hormones like ADH and renin help manage water levels and blood pressure. They send signals to different parts of the body to keep everything in check.
Feedback Mechanisms
Negative Feedback
This is when the body does the opposite of what just happened to bring things back to normal. For example, if blood sugar goes up, insulin is released to lower it.
Positive Feedback
This is when the body reinforces a change. An example is oxytocin, which increases during childbirth to help contractions get stronger.
Temperature Control and Sleep Patterns
Keeping Cool
To manage heat, our body expands blood vessels to cool off, helping us avoid overheating.
Melatonin for Sleep
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle, making sure we get the rest we need.
Balancing Acid and Base Levels
Kidneys and Balance
The kidneys also help maintain a healthy balance of acids and bases in the body, which is crucial for overall health.
