Functions of Blood and its main components
Blood is a body fluid than runs inside the blood vessels for the heart to every cell in the body. It is a specialized body fluid. It has two main components: plasma, and blood cells. Functions of Blood are many , as it has many components , each with its own functions. Functions of Blood summarized in short as following:
Transporting oxygen and nutrients to body tissues , carrying immune elements (cells and antibodies) to protect against infection , bringing waste products to be removed by the kidneys and liver , forming blood clots to prevent blood loss (Haemostasis) , and regulating body temperature and keeping minerals and other elements optimally for proper function
Functions of Blood in details
1- Transportation
Transportation is one the most important Functions of Blood. The blood transports dissolved gases, nutrients absorbed from the gut, and hormones, to all tissues and cells of the body. It also carries Oxygen (O2) from the lungs and drops off Carbon Dioxide (CO2). It picks up nutrients from the digestive tract to deliver to the liver and other tissues. It carries hormones from endocrine glands to deliver them to target organs. Also blood carries waste products to the kidneys, lungs, and other organs for excretion.
2- Protection
Protection against blood loss
The blood prevents excessive fluid losses through damaged vessels , through many mechanisms. This is done by Platelets in the blood and clotting proteins to minimize blood loss when a blood vessel is damaged. this process is called Haemostasis.
Protection against infection
The blood also defends against pathogens and toxins. White blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood help defend against infection. This process is called immunity.
3- Regulation – Homeostasis
Blood regulates the pH and electrolyte composition of the body fluids. Buffers in the blood stabilize the pH of the fluid surrounding cells (extracellular fluid).
The blood also regulates body temperature. Blood vessels in the skin are dilated (relaxed) or constricted so that heat from the body can be given off or conserved.
Sources:
– https://www.hematology.org/education/patients/blood-basics
