Soluble Substances Transferred from Small Intestine to Blood for Further Distribution in the Body

The small intestine is a part of the digestive system that plays a crucial role in the absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. The nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine walls. This process of transfer of soluble substances from the small intestine to the blood for further distribution in the body is called absorption.

Absorption in the Small Intestine

The small intestine has a large surface area for absorption due to its unique structure. The inner lining of the small intestine has finger-like projections called villi and microvilli that increase the surface area for absorption. The villi and microvilli are covered with tiny hair-like structures called cilia that help in moving the absorbed nutrients towards the bloodstream.

Mechanism of Absorption

The absorption of nutrients occurs through the process of diffusion, osmosis, and active transport. The soluble substances are transferred through the small intestine wall into the blood vessels that run through the villi. The blood vessels then transport the absorbed nutrients to the liver, where they are processed and further distributed to different parts of the body.

Types of Nutrients Absorbed

The small intestine absorbs different types of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is absorbed into the bloodstream. Proteins are broken down into amino acids, which are also absorbed into the bloodstream. Fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol and are transported through the lymphatic system. Vitamins and minerals are absorbed into the bloodstream and are distributed to various parts of the body.

Conclusion

The small intestine plays a vital role in the absorption of nutrients from the food we eat. The soluble substances are transferred through the small intestine wall into the bloodstream, where they are further distributed to different parts of the body. The absorption process occurs through the mechanism of diffusion, osmosis, and active transport. The different types of nutrients absorbed by the small intestine include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.