06.05 The small intestine

The small intestine is the major area of digestion and absorption of all nutrients. It is made up of 3 parts, the duodenum, the jejunum and the ileum. It is 2-4m in length and the length and folding of the innerlining increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients (Figure 6.2).

Figure 6.2 The gastrointestinal tract showing the small intestine (Copyright, QUT)