|
|
|||
|
Plasma
Plasma is a straw-colored, clear liquid that is 90 percent water. It is an essential ingredient for human survival. Water is the most important biologic fluid. It makes up approximately 70 percent of the total weight of an adult human being. Not only is plasma made up largely of water, but also all of the trillions of cells of the body are composed mainly of water. About 55 percent of blood is made up of plasma.
Plasma transports our blood cells along with antibodies (important in fighting off invading infections), certain proteins, hormones and other materials throughout our bodies. The most important proteins transported by plasma include albumin, gamma globulin and clotting factors. Clotting factors include at least 15 proteins that are necessary in the process of making a blood clot and controlling bleeding. Plasma also carries cellular waste products to our kidneys for excretion.
In addition to water, plasma also contains dissolved salts and minerals such as calcium, sodium, magnesium and potassium. Additionally, plasma transports hormones throughout our bodies. All of these are vital to health and well-being.
|
|||
|
|
|
||
|
|
|||