1) Define the terms allostasis and allostatic load (2 marks, 1 sentence each). Allostasis is important for one’s survival, similar to the functions of homeostasis; it is defined as one’s capability to reach stability through a series of changes. Allostatic load is caused by chronic stress as one either encounters a maximum or minimum amount of activity that results the wearing and tearing of this system (McEwen, 1998). 2) Describe the 4 different types of allostatic load (Fig 3) and for each describe a study in either humans or animals (summarized in the McEwan article) that showed an adverse health outcome associated with that type of allostatic load (2-3 sentences each, 8 marks total). a) Type 1: The first type of allostatic load is frequent stress, caused from stressors and explained through studies on monkeys. The monkeys were exposed to stressors over a length of time that increased its blood pressure; the consistent exposure expressed an increased risk for the monkey to accelerate its rate to acquire atherosclerosis. With continuous exposure, it was determined that atherosclerosis can result in a higher probability for the monkey to retrieve myocardial infraction (McEwen, 1998). b) …show more content…
Research has identified that people are exposed to similar or exact situations and still endure the effects of stress hormones preventing adaptation (McEwen,