What is the role of the lymphatic system in the body?

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's health by filtering and transporting lymph, a fluid that contains infection-fighting white blood cells. This system is integral to the immune response, as it helps to transport these cells throughout the body, allowing for a quicker reaction to pathogens like bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the lymphatic system helps ensure fluid balance within the body by returning excess interstitial fluid to the bloodstream, which prevents issues such as edema.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe the primary functions of the lymphatic system. Producing hormones is associated with the endocrine system. Digesting food pertains to the digestive system, and responding to stress mainly involves the nervous and endocrine systems, particularly through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. These distinctions further highlight the unique and vital functions of the lymphatic system in overall body health and immunity.