Lymph

Lymph: functions, composition and importance for the body

Lymph is a colorless liquid that is formed from blood plasma and contains white blood cells. It is similar in composition to blood plasma and plays an important role in the body. The lymphatic system, in which lymph circulates, is responsible for protecting the body from infections and diseases.

Functions of lymph

One of the main functions of lymph is to provide tissues and cells with nutrients and remove metabolic products. The formation of lymph is closely related to tissue fluid, which is formed as a result of the constant transition from blood to tissue of fluid containing oxygen and nutrients.

In turn, metabolic products are released from the tissue fluid, which partially enter back into the blood, and partially, together with the fluid, penetrate into the lymphatic capillaries, forming lymph. The lymphatic system transports these metabolic waste products back into the blood so they can be removed from the body.

In addition, lymph plays an important role in protecting the body from infections and diseases. Lymph nodes are organs of the lymphatic system that contain lymphocytes that protect the body from infections and diseases. When passing through the lymph nodes, the lymph is filtered, freeing itself from bacteria and other suspended particles and harmful substances that have penetrated into it from the tissues.

Composition of lymph

Lymph consists of a liquid part (lymphoplasm) and formed elements. The composition of lymphoplasm includes proteins, glucose, minerals and neutral fats. The formed elements of lymph include lymphocytes, monocytes and some other types of leukocytes.

A distinctive feature of lymph from tissue fluid and blood plasma is its composition and properties. Lymph contains less protein, has lower specific gravity and viscosity and other characteristics.

The importance of lymph for the body

Lymph plays an important role in protecting the body from infections and diseases, as well as providing cells and tissues with nutrients and removing metabolic waste products.

When the function of any organ increases, lymph formation in it increases. The quantity and chemical composition of lymph, in particular the percentage of fat and protein it contains, depend on which organ it flows from, the characteristics of metabolism and the function of this organ. For example, after eating a fatty meal, the lymph in the lymphatic vessels of the intestines becomes white due to the high fat content. Lymph flowing from the endocrine glands contains a certain amount of hormones.

The lymphatic system, in which lymph circulates, is important for the body. It plays a key role in the body's immune defense, helping to fight infections and disease. In addition, the lymphatic system is also involved in regulating the balance of fluids in the body.

It is important to note that disruption of the lymphatic system can lead to various diseases such as lymphedema, lymphoma and others. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the condition of the lymphatic system and, if necessary, consult a doctor.

Conclusion

Lymph is a colorless liquid that is formed from blood plasma and contains white blood cells. It plays an important role in the body, providing tissues and cells with nutrients and protecting the body from infections and diseases. The lymphatic system, in which lymph circulates, is important for the body. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the lymphatic system and, if necessary, consult a doctor for the prevention and treatment of diseases.

Lymph: translated from Latin means “clean water”. Indeed, at its core, lymph is a liquid tissue that washes the body. It consists of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, iron, as well as antibodies and other proteins - lymphocytes. The lymphatic system consists of cells that produce