How does the body primarily absorb nutrients from food?

The body primarily absorbs nutrients from food through the small intestine. This part of the digestive system is specifically designed for nutrient absorption and plays a crucial role in digestion.

The small intestine has a large surface area, thanks to its length and the presence of villi and microvilli, which are tiny, finger-like projections. These structures increase the surface area available for absorption, allowing for efficient uptake of nutrients. Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed here after being broken down in the stomach and further in the small intestine.

In contrast, the stomach's main function is to break down food through mechanical digestion and gastric juices, including acids and enzymes, rather than nutrient absorption. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes and compacts waste for excretion; it does not play a major role in nutrient absorption. Nutrient absorption occurs minimally in the mouth, where food is initially broken down by chewing and salivary enzymes but not absorbed to any significant extent. Thus, it is the structure and function of the small intestine that make it the primary site for nutrient absorption in the body.