Red Blood Cells Your Body’s Oxygen Carriers

Red blood cells (RBCs) play a very important role in keeping us alive and healthy. They are the most common type of blood cells and are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to every part of the body. Without enough red blood cells, our body wouldn’t get the oxygen it needs to function properly. What Do Red Blood Cells Do? Red blood cells contain a special protein called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin picks up oxygen from the lungs and transports it through the bloodstream to tissues and organs. Once the oxygen is delivered, hemoglobin carries carbon dioxide (a waste product) back to the lungs, where it is breathed out. This process happens continuously and keeps our body working smoothly. The Shape and Structure Healthy red blood cells are round, flat, and slightly indented in the middle—like a doughnut without a hole. This shape helps them move easily through blood vessels, even the tiniest ones, so they can deliver oxygen efficiently. These cells are flexible and live for abo...