What is the primary function of the small intestine in digestion?

What is the primary function of the small intestine in digestion?

• A. Absorb nutrients
• B. Store bile
• C. Digest proteins
• D. Process waste

Answer: (A)

The primary function of the small intestine in digestion is to absorb nutrients from the food that has been broken down in the stomach and further processed by digestive enzymes. The small intestine is lined with villi and microvilli, which significantly increase the surface area available for absorption, allowing for efficient uptake of essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream. This process is vital for providing the body with the nutrients needed for energy, growth, and maintenance of health. While other parts of the digestive system play important roles—such as storing bile or digesting proteins—the main role of the small intestine focuses on the absorption aspect after initial digestion has taken place. It prevents waste from being absorbed and instead facilitates the transfer of usable nutrients.

The primary function of the small intestine in digestion is to absorb nutrients from the food that has been broken down in the stomach and further processed by digestive enzymes. The small intestine is lined with villi and microvilli, which significantly increase the surface area available for absorption, allowing for efficient uptake of essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals into the bloodstream. This process is vital for providing the body with the nutrients needed for energy, growth, and maintenance of health.

While other parts of the digestive system play important roles—such as storing bile or digesting proteins—the main role of the small intestine focuses on the absorption aspect after initial digestion has taken place. It prevents waste from being absorbed and instead facilitates the transfer of usable nutrients.