11.1 What is Homeostasis?
- Definition: The regulation of internal conditions to maintain a stable environment.
- Importance: Ensures optimal conditions for enzyme activity and cell function.
11.2 Regulation of Blood Glucose
- Insulin: Lowers blood glucose by facilitating glucose uptake.
- Glucagon: Raises blood glucose by stimulating glycogen breakdown.
11.3 Regulation of Body Temperature
- Thermoregulation: Maintaining body temperature around 37°C.
- Mechanisms:
- Vasodilation: Blood vessels widen to release heat.
- Vasoconstriction: Blood vessels narrow to retain heat.
- Sweating: Evaporation of sweat cools the body.
- Shivering: Muscle contractions generate heat.
11.4 Excretion of Urea
- Urea is a waste product of protein metabolism, excreted by the kidneys.