Blood's primary function is transport. It acts as the body's delivery system, constantly moving vital substances throughout the body. This crucial role encompasses several key tasks:
Key Functions of Blood
- Transporting Oxygen and Nutrients: Blood carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and organs, and delivers nutrients absorbed from the digestive system to cells where they're needed for energy and growth. Patients - Blood Basics - American Society of Hematology and Functions of blood: transport around the body - NHS Blood Donation
- Waste Removal: Blood picks up waste products, like carbon dioxide from cellular metabolism, and transports them to the lungs and kidneys for elimination from the body. What Do Blood Cells Do? | American Red Cross and In brief: What does blood do? - InformedHealth.org - NCBI Bookshelf
- Immune System Support: Blood contains white blood cells, which are crucial components of the immune system. They identify and fight off infections and foreign invaders. White Blood Cells: Types, Function & Normal Ranges and Patients - Blood Basics - American Society of Hematology
- Clotting: Blood contains clotting factors that help stop bleeding when blood vessels are injured, preventing excessive blood loss. Patients - Blood Basics - American Society of Hematology
- Hormone Transportation: Blood acts as a courier, carrying hormones from glands to their target organs, enabling communication and coordination within the body. Functions of blood: transport around the body - NHS Blood Donation
Blood's role is vital for maintaining homeostasis, the body's internal balance. The circulatory system, with its network of blood vessels, ensures efficient delivery of these transported substances. Blood Vessels: Types, Anatomy, Function & Conditions and How Your Circulatory System Works
