Studies // Cited work

Allostasis: A model of predictive regulation

Sterling, P. (2012). Allostasis: A model of predictive regulation.

Level D Theory doi:10.1016/j.physbeh.2011.06.004

What this study supports

Supports the claim that allostasis was proposed as predictive regulation, anticipating needs rather than correcting errors by feedback. A theoretical argument whose contrast with homeostasis is disputed.

Who was studied
Not applicable: a theoretical article.
Design
Theory
Level of evidence
Cross-sectional, observational, qualitative work and narrative reviews.

Claims that rest on it

Each claim states what the site asserts, at what strength, and with what caveat.

TheoreticalLevel DConfidence HIGH

Allostasis, a term introduced by Sterling and Eyer, describes physiological regulation that anticipates demands and changes set points rather than holding them constant; allostatic load names the cumulative cost of repeated or chronic activation.

Scope
The concepts as defined by their originators.
Caveat
The definitions are theoretical and their contrast with homeostasis is disputed.

Last reviewed · Review due · allostasis-predictive-regulation