The small intestine is a crucial component of the digestive system, primarily responsible for the absorption of nutrients and minerals from food. It consists of three main parts: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, each playing a distinct role in digestion and absorption.

Small intestine anatomy

The small intestine is a crucial component of the digestive system, responsible for the majority of nutrient absorption and digestion. It is divided into three segments: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, each playing a unique role in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients into the bloodstream.

small intestine

The digestive system is a complex network of organs responsible for breaking down food into nutrients, which the body uses for energy, growth, and cell repair. It involves both mechanical and chemical processes, beginning in the mouth and ending in the small intestine, with waste products being expelled through the large intestine.

digestive system

absorption of nutrients

Absorption of minerals

The duodenum is the first and shortest segment of the small intestine, playing a crucial role in digestion by receiving chyme from the stomach and mixing it with bile and pancreatic enzymes. It is essential for the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, serving as a key site for chemical digestion and regulation of gastric emptying.

duodenum

The jejunum is the middle section of the small intestine, playing a crucial role in the absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates and proteins. Its highly folded lining, with numerous villi and microvilli, increases surface area to optimize nutrient absorption and digestion.

jejunum

The ileum is the final and longest segment of the small intestine, crucial for the absorption of vitamin B12, bile salts, and any remaining nutrients that were not absorbed by the jejunum. It connects to the large intestine at the ileocecal valve, playing a vital role in regulating the flow of chyme into the colon and preventing backflow of bacteria.

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