Know the 4 components of blood and their functions for our body

As one of the most important components of the body, blood can bring a variety of benefits, from the supply of oxygen to tissues through the elimination of harmful substances.

Even though at first glance it's only red liquid, the components of blood that make it up are very diverse.

4 blood components and their functions

In addition to red blood cells, three other components form blood, namely white blood cells, platelets and plasma. These four blood components have their respective roles and functions.

However, each component may also have its own abnormalities such as hemophilia, leukemia or anemia. The following are additional explanations about blood components that you can know about.

1. Red blood cells

Red blood cells, or what are also called erythrocytes, are components that give blood its distinctive color.

This component contains hemoglobin, which is used to send oxygen throughout the body and to recover the remaining carbon dioxide to be transported in the lungs. In two to three drops of blood, there are an estimated one billion red blood cells.

This component is also useful for treating anemia without significantly increasing blood volume.

Red blood cell transfusion can also be used to replace conditions that cause a person to lose a lot of blood, such as an accident, surgery or childbirth.

2. white blood cells
White blood cells function to protect the body from infection. The amount of this component is much lower than red blood cells, which is about 1% of all your blood. White blood cells are again divided into two main components, namely neutrophils and lymphocytes.

In addition to these two main components, white blood cells also include monocytes, eucinophils and basophils. Unlike red blood cells, white blood cells cannot be transfused to other people.

Because this cell has a very short life, it cannot be used after 24 hours.

3. plate

Platelets or platelets are components that play a role in the process of blood clotting. When a person bleeds, platelets accumulate to stop bleeding after an injury or accident.

Platelets can also be used to treat cases of bone marrow injury, leukemia, as well as organ transplants and chemotherapy.

4. plasma

Plasma is a part of blood with fluid consistency. Plasmalah that helps red blood cells and platelets circulate throughout the body. Plasma liquid is yellow and can last up to one year if kept frozen before donating.

Blood plasma has important functions for the body, namely:

- Helps control blood pressure and volume
- Provides protein for blood clotting and the immune system
- Bring minerals such as sodium and potassium into the muscles to maintain the balance of acid levels in the body that are important for the functioning of cells.
Where are the blood components produced?

Components of blood are produced in the bone marrow. The process of blood production and development that occurs is also called hematopoiesis. In addition to bone marrow, other organs, such as lymph nodes, spleen and liver, help regulate the flow of blood cells.

In addition, these organs also help in the production and functioning of blood cells. In addition, when blood cells must be destroyed, these organs can also play a role. When formed for the first time in the bone marrow, blood cells always have the form of stem cells.

Over time, the stem cells will then mature and change into
blood components that we know, namely red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Given the importance of the role and function of each component of blood, of course you must stay healthy. Live a healthy life by eating nutritious foods and exercising regularly.