Blood contains red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets suspended in plasma. Red blood cells transport oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. White blood cells help fight infection in two categories: granulocytes including neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils, and agranulocytes such as monocytes and lymphocytes. Platelets help prevent bleeding by forming clots at sites of injury. Overall, blood defends the body as a connective tissue through these cellular components and plasma proteins.