Small Intestine:
Small Intestine is the principal organ that absorbs most of the water and nutrients. Inner surface of small intestine has got many villi and microvilli, which increase the surface area for absorption.
Enzymes from pancreas and small intestine break down carbohydrates and fats so that they can be absorbed.
Chyme stimulates the release of hormones that slow stomach peristalsis, and gives small intestine more time to absorb the nutrients.
The digestion is completed at small intestine and the final products of digestion such as glucose, glycerol, fructose, fatty acids and amino acids are absorbed through the mucosa into the blood stream and lymph.
Large Intestine:
Large Intestine serves to absorb the last of the water and nutrients.
When the contents of the digestive tract reach the large intestine, the largest portion of the nutrients and water have already been absorbed. Thus it absorbs most of the remaining nutrients and water.
It absorbs water and salt to form feces. The large intestine absorbs some vitamins as well.
Water absorption by large intestine, an important process prevents dehydration and maintains homeostasis.
