Title: Digestive Tract
Headings: Normal Movements of the Digestive Tract
Normal Movements of the Digestive Tract
Digestive Tract
Disorders of the Esophagus
Disorders of the Stomach
Disorders of the Small Intestine
Disorders of the Large Intestine
Disorders of the Pelvic Floor
Motility Testing
Resources

Content: the duodenum
the jejunum
the ileum
Each part or section performs an important role in nutrient absorption. Duodenum – The chyme first enters into the duodenum where it is exposed to secretions that aid digestion. The secretions include bile salts, enzymes, and bicarbonate. The bile salts from the liver help digest fats and fat soluble vitamins (Vitamin A, D, E, and K). Pancreatic enzymes help digest carbohydrates and fats. Bicarbonate from the pancreas neutralizes the acid from the stomach. Jejunum – The chyme is then further transited down into the second or middle part of the small intestine, the jejunum. Mainly in the first half of the jejunum, the majority (about 90%) of nutrient absorption occurs involving proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Ileum – The ileum is the last section of the small intestine and leads to the large intestine or colon. The ileum mainly absorbs water, bile salts, and vitamin B12.