The spleen is an essential organ in the upper left abdomen, behind the stomach and below the diaphragm. It plays several critical roles in maintaining overall health and supporting the body’s immune system. When the spleen enlarges, it produces a pain that can be felt under the last rib on the left side. Caring for your spleen can help you enjoy a pain-free life.
Functions of the Spleen:
- Immune Response: The spleen is a vital component of the immune system. It helps identify and filter out bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances from the blood. The spleen contains specialised white blood cells called lymphocytes and macrophages that detect and respond to these threats, aiding the body’s defence mechanisms.
- Blood Filtration: One of the spleen’s primary functions is filtering the blood. It removes old or damaged red blood cells from circulation, breaking them down and recycling their components. The spleen also helps filter out abnormal cells and pathogens, contributing to overall blood health.
- Red Blood Cell Storage: The spleen serves as a reservoir for red blood cells. In times of need, such as during significant blood loss or when the body requires more red blood cells, the spleen can release stored cells into the bloodstream, helping to maintain adequate oxygen transport throughout the body.
- Platelet Storage: The spleen also stores platelets crucial for blood clotting. By regulating platelet levels, the spleen contributes to the body’s ability to stop bleeding and promote healing.
- When we abuse the body with wrong food combinations, eating in excess, or at inappropriate times, the spleen takes the beating. It enlarges and is unable to function normally. Anxiety is another reason the spleen begins to perform differently. The first signal usually is pain in the legs. Other signals, such as frequent nasal discharge, clogged nostrils, and excessive salivation, are seen afterwards. Symptoms include frequent fevers and varicose veins.
Caring for your spleen
You can improve the spleen function by eating right. Sweets clog the digestive tract. They are difficult to digest, absorb and assimilate. They put excessive stress on the liver and the spleen. Eating more than an hour after sunset affects the spleen. Eating when food is available and even when you aren’t hungry affects the spleen. You can learn more about your body in the fundamentals of Ayurveda online learning course.
