Where do nutrients from the digestive system go?

The nutrients from the digestive system are absorbed into the bloodstream through the walls of the small intestine. The small intestine is a long, coiled tube that is responsible for most of the absorption of nutrients from food. The inner wall of the small intestine is lined with tiny, finger-like projections called villi. Villi increase the surface area of the small intestine, which allows for more nutrients to be absorbed.

The nutrients from food are absorbed into the bloodstream through the villi. The villi are covered in tiny blood vessels called capillaries. The capillaries carry the nutrients to the liver, where they are processed and distributed to the rest of the body.

Some nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the walls of the small intestine. Other nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, must be broken down into smaller molecules before they can be absorbed. This process of breaking down nutrients is called digestion.

Digestion begins in the mouth, where saliva breaks down carbohydrates. It continues in the stomach, where stomach acid breaks down proteins. Finally, digestion is completed in the small intestine, where enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver help to break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Once the nutrients from food have been absorbed into the bloodstream, they are transported to cells throughout the body. These cells use the nutrients for energy, growth, and repair.