Intestines

Completes the digestion of food and absorbs nutrients into the bloodstream, while also playing a critical role in immune function and waste elimination.

Key Functions:

• Digests food into absorbable nutrients.
• Absorbs water, electrolytes, and nutrients.
• Forms and eliminates feces.
• Houses a significant portion of the immune system (GALT).

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Stomach (receives chyme from)
• Pancreas (receives digestive enzymes from)
• Liver (sends absorbed nutrients to via portal vein)
• Chylomicrons (formed for fat absorption)
• Microbiome (contains vast microbiota)
• Immune System (Gut-Associated Lymphoid Tissue, GALT)