Vékonybél

Vékonybél is the Hungarian word for small intestine. This organ is a crucial part of the digestive system, responsible for the majority of nutrient absorption in the body. It is a long, coiled tube, typically measuring about 6 to 7 meters in adults, though its length can vary. The small intestine is divided into three main sections: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum.

The duodenum is the shortest section, connecting the stomach to the jejunum. Here, digestive juices from the pancreas and liver are mixed with the partially digested food from the stomach. These juices contain enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The jejunum follows, and it is the primary site for the absorption of most nutrients, including sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids, into the bloodstream.

The ileum is the final section of the small intestine, connecting to the large intestine. It plays a significant role in absorbing vitamin B12, bile salts, and any remaining nutrients that were not absorbed in the jejunum. The inner lining of the small intestine is covered in folds, villi, and microvilli, which greatly increase the surface area available for absorption. These structures are richly supplied with blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, facilitating efficient nutrient transport throughout the body. After passing through the small intestine, the remaining undigested material moves into the large intestine for further processing.