Final answer:
Homeostasis is maintained through negative feedback loops that include a stimulus, sensor, control center, and effector. Disruption of homeostasis can lead to diseases and a reduction in the efficiency of the body's control system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Homeostasis is maintained through negative feedback loops that include a stimulus, sensor, control center, and effector. Negative feedback helps to reduce an excessive response and keep a variable within the normal range. For example, body temperature is regulated through negative feedback. When body temperature rises, the temperature regulatory center of the brain activates sweat glands to cool down the body. Once the body temperature returns to normal, negative feedback stops the process.
Homeostasis can be disrupted when the body's control system fails. This can result in diseases like diabetes or age-related reduction in the efficiency of the control system, making the body more susceptible to illness.