The small intestine is specifically designed for efficient absorption of nutrients.
The small intestine has folds, villi, and microvilli, collectively known as the brush border.
Facilitated diffusion requires carrier proteins to help larger molecules pass through the cell membrane.
A concentration gradient is necessary for faster absorption; nutrients move from areas of high concentration to low concentration.
The main function of the large intestine is to absorb water and form feces.
Enterocytes are the cells lining the small intestine that are responsible for nutrient absorption.
Passive diffusion is the movement of small molecules from a region of high concentration to low concentration without energy use.
The building blocks of carbohydrates are monosaccharides, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose.
The primary function of carbohydrates is to provide energy for bodily functions.
Nutrients are absorbed through a moist surface, allowing them to dissolve in water for easier absorption.
Nutrients are transported through capillaries linked to the blood circulation and lacteals linked to the lymphatic system.
Nutrient transport mechanisms include passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and active transport.
Active transport involves moving nutrients from low to high concentration using energy.
Vitamins, minerals, and alcohol can be absorbed directly without the need for digestion.
If water absorption is inefficient, feces can become watery, leading to diarrhea.
The large intestine contains microflora that ferment undigested waste, aiding in nutrient absorption.
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose due to insufficient lactase enzyme.
Carbohydrates are classified into simple carbohydrates (sugars) and complex carbohydrates (starches).
Simple carbohydrates are quickly absorbed and sweet, while complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and are not sweet.
Hydrolysis is the process of breaking down disaccharides into monosaccharides using water and enzymes.
