What is allostatic load theory and how can it help you?
Allostatic load theory reminds us that the effects of stress accumulate over time and lead to poor health. But building your resilience can reduce health impacts. Review the stressors in your life and if possible, take actions to reduce them.
What are the different concepts related to allostasis?
Another concept related to allostasis is allostatic load. Allostatic load refers to the strain a biological system experiences as a result of its attempt to maintain homeostasis.
What are the effects of allostatic overload?
In other words, allostatic processes lead to increases in blood pressure, lipids, glucose, and inflammation, which increase health risks. Allostatic overload occurs when the cumulative effects of physiological stress response lead to health problems, disease, or death.
What is the role of the brain in allostasis and load?
The brain is the key to understanding allostasis and allostatic load because it controls both the physiological and behavioral coping responses and because the brain is itself a target of allostasis and allostatic load through the actions of stress hormones on receptors in the brain (see Fig. 1).
