About the blood, Hemoglobin and Bone marrow
Posted on 11/17/2011
Blood contains fluid called plasma, which includes three different types of cells:
White blood cells are part of the body's immune system and defend it against infection. Red blood cells carry oxygen around the body in a substance called hemoglobin. Platelets help the blood to clot.
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin acts as a sort of transport mechanism for the blood. As blood passes through the lungs, the hemoglobin pulls in oxygen molecules and releases carbon dioxide molecules.
After moving away from the lungs, the hemoglobin delivers the oxygen molecules to the body’s tissue and absorbs any excess carbon dioxide molecules to take back to the lungs.
Bone marrow
Red blood cells, which contain hemoglobin, are produced in the bone marrow (a red spongy material that is found inside the larger bones). Millions of new cells are produced every day to replace old cells that break down.
Nutrients from food, such as iron and certain vitamins, ensure that your bone marrow remains healthy and is able to produce a constant supply of red blood cells.
