Intestinal absorption is the process by which nutrients from food are taken up by the body through the walls of the intestines. This occurs mainly in the small intestine, where digested food is broken down into smaller molecules, such as amino acids, fatty acids, and simple sugars. These molecules then pass through the intestinal lining into the bloodstream.
The large intestine also plays a role in absorption, primarily for water and electrolytes. The efficiency of intestinal absorption can be influenced by various factors, including the type of food consumed, the health of the intestinal lining, and the presence of certain enzymes that aid in digestion.