The human body is a marvel of nature, a complex physical structure that allows the existence and development of every human being. It is composed of different parts and systems that work together to ensure that all of our body's functions are performed correctly and efficiently. Understanding how these systems interact and collaborate with each other is key to understanding our own biology.
When we talk about the human body we can divide it into external and internal parts. Externally, it is divided into four fundamental sections: the cabeza (where the brain, the thinking organ, is housed), the trunk (structure that connects the body and provides support), the Superior limbs or arms and the lower extremities or legs. From there, the different systems that operate to allow life are structured.
Human body systems
The human body is made up of several internal systems that are essential for performing vital functions. Each of these systems is made up of a set of organs that collaborate to perform more complex functions. Below, we explore each of these systems with their corresponding organs and functions.
Skeletal system
El skeletal system It is the bony structure that supports the body. It is made up of 206 bones that together form the human skeleton. Bones not only provide support to the body, but also protect vital internal organs such as the heart, lungs, and brain, while allowing movement in conjunction with the muscular system.
It is divided into two parts: the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton. axial skeleton includes the bones of the skull, spine and thorax, while the appendicular skeleton The bones of the limbs and the shoulder and pelvic girdles are comprised of joints, where bones meet, that allow movement and are supported by cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Additionally, bones perform functions such as producing blood cells in the bone marrow and storing calcium.
The skeleton is essentially the structure that shapes and protects the human body, working in conjunction with the muscles to allow movement. Throughout the skeletal system, there are over 200 joints that are essential for mobility.
Muscular system
El muscular system It is made up of more than 600 muscles that, together with the skeletal system, allow the body to move. There are three main types of muscles:
- Skeletal muscleThese muscles are attached to the bones and allow voluntary movement of the body.
- Smooth muscle: It is found in the walls of internal organs such as the stomach and intestines, and its movement is involuntary.
- Cardiac muscle: It is the muscle that makes up the heart, responsible for pumping blood, also involuntary.
Nervous system
El nervous system It is one of the most important in the human body because it is responsible for receiving, sending and processing information. to coordinate and control bodily functions. It is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, which together allow the body to function.
The brain, the main organ of this system, receives information from the senses and the environment, interprets this information and makes decisions. It also allows the control of voluntary activities such as walking, and involuntary activities such as breathing and heartbeat.
The nervous system is divided into two main parts: the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system (PNS), which is made up of nerves that extend throughout the body.
Cardiovascular system
The cardiovascular system is crucial to keeping the body functioning, as it is responsible for transporting blood, oxygen and nutrients to every cell. It is primarily composed of the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins and capillaries) and blood.
El heart It is the main organ of this system, responsible for pumping blood through the arteries so that it reaches the entire body. In turn, the blood returns to the heart through the veins. This system is also essential for the elimination of waste products such as carbon dioxide, which will be carried to the lungs for expulsion.
Respiratory system
The next fundamental system is the respiratory system, whose main function is to oxygenate the blood and remove carbon dioxide. Key organs in this system include the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs.
The breathing process begins when air enters through the nose or mouth, passes through the pharynx and larynx until it reaches the lungs, where the alveoli allow the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood.
Digestive System
El digestive system is responsible for break down food and absorb nutrients that the body needs to function. It is made up of a series of organs that work together to perform this task: the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, mouth and pharynx.
The digestive process begins in the mouth, where food is chewed and mixed with saliva. It then passes through the esophagus into the stomach, where stomach acids break down the food. Finally, nutrients are absorbed in the intestines, and waste is eliminated.
Urinary system
The urinary system or excretory system is responsible for the elimination of waste through the production of urine. It is composed of the kidneys, which filter the blood, eliminating waste and toxins, the ureters, the urinary bladder and the urethra.
The kidneys They perform a crucial function in maintaining the balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body, while urine is temporarily stored in the bladder before being expelled.
Endocrine system
El endocrine system It is responsible for releasing hormones in the body.These chemicals are responsible for regulating growth, metabolism, and other essential functions. The most important glands in this system include the thyroid, testes, ovaries, pituitary, and adrenal glands.
The hormones produced by these glands travel through the blood and act on different systems of the body, regulating vital functions such as sexual development and energy production.
Lymphatic system
El The lymphatic system is a network of vessels through which lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells, circulates.This system is key to defending the body against infections, in addition to participating in the elimination of waste and the transport of lipids absorbed in the intestine.
Lymph is transported through a network of lymphatic vessels to the lymph nodes, where it is filtered and pathogens are removed. This fluid then returns to the bloodstream.
Reproductive system
El reproductive system is responsible for reproduction. In men, it includes the testicles, penis, and accessory glands. In women, the system consists of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina. These organs work together to produce sex cells and ensure the reproduction of the species.
Integumentary system
El integumentary system It is made up of the skin, the largest organ of the human body, as well as hair, nails and glands such as sweat and sebaceous glands. Its main function is to protect the body against external agents and injuries. In addition, the skin helps regulate body temperature and allows the sensation of touch, heat and cold.
In addition to its protective function, the integumentary system is crucial for eliminating some toxins through sweat and for the production of vitamin D.
The human body is a harmonious set of interdependent systems. Each system plays a crucial role in the survival and maintenance of the functional balance of the organism. Although each of these systems has specialized functions, they must all work in a coordinated manner to ensure health and well-being.