What is the function of the jejunum in the digestive system?

The jejunum plays a vital role in the digestive system primarily as the site for the absorption of nutrients. It is the second part of the small intestine, situated between the duodenum and the ileum. The structure of the jejunum is specially adapted for absorption, featuring a highly folded lining with numerous villi and microvilli that increase the surface area available for nutrient uptake. This allows for the efficient absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals from the digested food that passes through.

The jejunum receives the partially digested contents from the duodenum, which has already been mixed with digestive enzymes and bile for fat emulsification. As the contents move through the jejunum, nutrients are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. This uptake is essential for providing the body with the energy and building blocks necessary for growth and maintenance.

In contrast, other functions mentioned such as bile secretion, food storage, and mechanical digestion are conducted by different organs or parts of the digestive system. Bile is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder for secretion into the small intestine, food storage primarily occurs in the stomach, and mechanical digestion is a process that involves the physical breakdown of food which starts in the mouth and continues in the