Which organ system is responsible for supplying oxygen and nutrients to body cells?

The cardiovascular system, often referred to as the circulatory system, plays a crucial role in supplying oxygen and nutrients to body cells. This system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The heart pumps oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and nutrients absorbed from food through the digestive system into the arteries, which then transport this vital fluid throughout the body.

Once the blood reaches the capillaries, oxygen and nutrients diffuse across the capillary walls and enter the surrounding tissues and cells. This process ensures that every cell in the body receives the necessary components to function optimally. Additionally, the cardiovascular system helps remove waste products, such as carbon dioxide and metabolic byproducts, from the cells, which are then transported to the lungs and kidneys for excretion.

In contrast, while the digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, it does not directly supply those nutrients to the cells; that function is carried out by the cardiovascular system. The nervous system is primarily responsible for transmitting signals and coordinating actions within the body, while the immune system defends against pathogens and infections, neither of which is directly involved in the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to cells.