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Endocrine Allostatic Load

Meaning

Endocrine Allostatic Load quantifies the cumulative physiological “wear and tear” on the body’s hormone systems resulting from chronic or repeated exposure to stressors, necessitating continuous adaptive responses. Allostasis, meaning “maintaining stability through change,” requires energy and resources, and the load represents the cost of this prolonged adaptation. When the endocrine system, particularly the HPA axis, is chronically taxed, this load can lead to dysregulation, manifesting as thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, or gonadal hormone suppression. Monitoring this load is a key aspect of preventative and longevity medicine.