Absorption

Definition

Absorption is the process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream through the intestinal wall. It is crucial for delivering essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to various body tissues.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, particularly in the duodenum and jejunum.
2. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) require dietary fats for efficient absorption.
3. Conditions like celiac disease and Crohn's disease can impair nutrient absorption.
4. The presence of certain enzymes and bile acids is essential for effective absorption of macronutrients.
5. Water-soluble vitamins (B-complex and C) are absorbed directly into the bloodstream without needing fat.

Review Questions

• Where does most nutrient absorption take place in the digestive system?
• What role do bile acids play in nutrient absorption?
• How do fat-soluble vitamins differ from water-soluble vitamins in terms of absorption?

Related terms

Digestion:

The mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Micronutrients:

Essential dietary elements required by organisms in small quantities throughout life to orchestrate a range of physiological functions.

Intestinal Mucosa: The innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract that facilitates nutrient absorption through its lining cells.