* Digestion: The small intestine is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients occurs. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver work together to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates into smaller molecules.
* Absorption: The small intestine's lining has tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption. These villi absorb the digested nutrients and pass them into the bloodstream.
Other important organs involved in the process:
* Mouth: Mechanical breakdown of food begins in the mouth, and salivary enzymes start the digestion of carbohydrates.
* Stomach: The stomach churns food and mixes it with gastric juices that break down proteins.
* Pancreas: Produces enzymes that help break down all types of food molecules.
* Liver: Produces bile, which aids in fat digestion.
The bloodstream then carries these absorbed nutrients throughout the body to be used for energy, growth, and repair.
