Question

what would happen if the small intestines was located before the stomach? What would happen if the liver released bile in the third part of the small intestine, rather than in the first part

Answer 1

Answer:

1) foods would not correctly be digested, thus nutrients would not correctly be absorbed

2) lipids and fat-soluble vitamins (e.g., vitamin B12) would not be absorbed because bile acids would be absorbed before fulfilling their functions

Explanation:

The digestive system contains several organs that work sequentially together to convert foods into energy. The stomach has two main functions 1-to store foods (approximately 2 hrs) after they are consumed and 2- to breakdown/digest large foods. After this, the small intestine acts to continue with the process of digestion and absorption of nutrients from the foods. The duodenum is the first potion of the small intestine whose main function is the completion of the digestion by mixing foods with bile and pancreatic juices that help in the absorption of nutrients. Finally, the third portion of the small intestine is the ileum which attaches the small intestine to the colon. This part of the small intestine works to absorb bile acids secreted by the liver, thereby acting after the action of the bile enzymes.