from self-digestion. Small Intestine Anatomy: Comprising three parts—duodenum, jejunum, ileum—the small intestine is approximately 6 meters long. Function: Major site for digestion and nutrient absorption. Th
sed on Marieb Processes of Digestion and Absorption The physiology section explains how food is processed and nutrients are absorbed: Ingestion: Food enters the mouth. Propulsion: Swallowing and peristalsis move food along. Mechanical diges
on: Moving food through the GI tract via swallowing and peristalsis. Mechanical digestion: Physical breakdown of food (e.g., chewing, churning). Chemical digestion: Breakdown of complex molecules into simpler molecules by enzymes. Absorption: Nutrients passing
es. Segmentation in the small intestine enhances nutrient absorption. Chemical Digestion Enzymes break down complex molecules into absorbable units: Carbohydrates: Broken down into simple sugars. Proteins: Conver
drates, proteins, and fats. Absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Coloring images can depict villi, microvilli, and the intricate network of blood vessels, aiding in visualizing how absorption occurs at the microscopic level. Large Intestine: Water Rec
