The long-term, dynamic equilibrium of the body’s internal environment, where all major physiological variables—such as blood glucose, core temperature, pH, and hormone levels—are maintained within a narrow, optimal range despite continuous external and internal challenges. This state represents a resilient biological system capable of high-level allostasis and is the fundamental prerequisite for health, longevity, and peak performance. Achieving this requires efficient, non-fatiguing operation of the neuroendocrine and metabolic feedback loops. It is the gold standard of biological well-being.
Origin
This term is an elaboration of the foundational concept of homeostasis in physiology, with the addition of sustained and systemic to emphasize the clinical goal of long-term, comprehensive stability across the entire organism. It reflects the shift from acute management to chronic, preventative health optimization. The language underscores the necessity of enduring internal balance.
Mechanism
Maintenance of this state is governed by negative feedback loops that constantly monitor and adjust hormonal and metabolic outputs. For example, the efficient clearance and metabolism of cortisol after a stressor, coupled with rapid insulin sensitivity adjustments after a meal, ensures variables return to their set points quickly. This robust regulatory capacity minimizes the cumulative allostatic load on the body, preserving cellular integrity and preventing chronic disease progression.
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