Imagine plasma as a clear, slightly yellowish liquid, similar to the color of straw. It can appear somewhat milky after a fatty meal or if there's a high lipid content in your blood.

Plasma is predominantly water, about 90 percent, in fact.

The other 10 percent, though, is packed with life-sustaining substances.

These dissolved elements circulate throughout your body, delivering vital nutrients to cells and tissues – think of it as your body's personal delivery system. In return, waste materials are collected from cells and transported to the kidneys or lungs for elimination.

Blood pressure plays a key role in this process, pushing fluid out of blood vessels.

In contrast, oncotic pressure, mainly driven by proteins in the blood, works to keep fluid inside the vessels. This delicate balance ensures a stable blood volume circulating in your body.

A significant part of the plasma's 10 percent consists of proteins.

Since protein molecules are larger than water molecules, they predominantly remain within the blood vessels.

These proteins, particularly albumin, globulins (including immunoglobulins), and clotting proteins (like fibrinogen), are vital for maintaining blood pressure, transporting substances like lipids and hormones, supporting the immune system, aiding in blood clotting, and balancing the body's chemistry.

But plasma isn't just about proteins.

It's rich in electrolytes – key chemicals such as sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, calcium, and magnesium.

These electrolytes are critical for maintaining fluid balance, enabling nerve and muscle function (including your heart's rhythm), blood clotting, and regulating your body's pH level.

Moreover, plasma contains carbohydrates like glucose, cholesterol, various hormones, and vitamins.

When plasma is allowed to clot, it leaves behind a fluid called serum, which is invaluable for medical tests and detecting health issues.

In essence, blood plasma is a dynamic and essential fluid, playing a key role in not just transporting substances but also maintaining the overall harmony of your body's functions.