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How is the small intestine designed to absorb digested food?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: September 25th, 2023
The small intestine consists of three sections duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Small finger-like projections known as villi present in the duodenum help in the absorption of food. Jejunum consists of an enterocyte cell lining that digests small nutrients using digestive enzymes.
- A considerable quantity of vitamins, minerals, and water are absorbed in the small intestine.
- It produces digestive fluids that help in the absorption and digestion of meals.
- The small intestine receives the pancreatic and gallbladder juices, which help with digestion there.
Table of content
Absorption of food in the Small Intestine
- The duodenum, which is the shortest segment close to the stomach, the jejunum, which is the middle segment, and the ileum make up the small intestine (the end portion of the small intestine which involves the absorption of remaining products).
- The duodenum has tiny finger-like extensions called villi that help in food absorption.
- The enterocyte cell lining of the jejunum uses digestive enzymes to break down tiny nutrients.
- Bile salts, vitamin B12, and other metabolites are easier to absorb thanks to the ileum.
- The small intestine produces the hormones cholecystokinin and secretin, which work with digestive juices and enzymes to absorb and digest food.
- Lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates are among the three types of nutrients that are broken down in the small intestine.
Summary:
How is the small intestine designed to absorb digested food?
The duodenum, jejunum, and ileum are the three portions that make up the small intestine. The duodenum contains tiny finger-like projections called villi that aid in food absorption. The enterocyte cell lining of the jejunum uses digestive enzymes to break down tiny nutrients.
