Absorption

9.3

Absorption

The Adaptations of Ileum and Villus in The Absorption of Digested Food

Simple molecules produced from the digested food are absorbed in the ileum of the small intestine.
The long ileum is adapted to absorb nutrients because its internal layer is folded and covered by tiny projections called villi (singular: villus).
Villus has the following adaptations to absorb nutrients:
- The epithelial layer of the villus is one cell thick.
- This helps accelerate nutrient absorption.
- Goblet cells secrete mucus to aid digestion.
- The network of blood capillaries helps to transport digestive products to the whole body
- Lacteal carries droplets of fatty acids and glycerol.
- The intestinal glands secrete intestinal juices that have digestive enzymes.
On the surface of the villus epithelium, there are many tiny projections called microvillus.
Microvillus provides a large surface area to increase the rate of nutrient absorption.

9.3

Absorption

The Adaptations of Ileum and Villus in The Absorption of Digested Food

Simple molecules produced from the digested food are absorbed in the ileum of the small intestine.
The long ileum is adapted to absorb nutrients because its internal layer is folded and covered by tiny projections called villi (singular: villus).
Villus has the following adaptations to absorb nutrients:
- The epithelial layer of the villus is one cell thick.
- This helps accelerate nutrient absorption.
- Goblet cells secrete mucus to aid digestion.
- The network of blood capillaries helps to transport digestive products to the whole body
- Lacteal carries droplets of fatty acids and glycerol.
- The intestinal glands secrete intestinal juices that have digestive enzymes.
On the surface of the villus epithelium, there are many tiny projections called microvillus.
Microvillus provides a large surface area to increase the rate of nutrient absorption.