Which part of the small intestine breaks down remaining proteins and carbohydrates?

The jejunum is the part of the small intestine that plays a crucial role in the breakdown of remaining proteins and carbohydrates after they have been partially digested in the stomach and in the duodenum. Located between the duodenum and the ileum, the jejunum is specialized for absorption of nutrients. It has a rich supply of blood vessels and a large surface area due to its numerous folds, villi, and microvilli, which enhance its ability to absorb the final products of digestion effectively.

As digestion progresses through the small intestine, the jejunum continues the enzymatic breakdown of proteins into amino acids and carbohydrates into simple sugars. This is essential for the body to utilize these nutrients efficiently. The combined action of digestive enzymes, as well as the absorption capabilities of the jejunum, ensures that essential nutrients are readily available for the body’s needs.

The ileum, while also involved in absorption, primarily focuses on the absorption of vitamin B12 and bile salts, rather than the breakdown of proteins and carbohydrates. The duodenum, on the other hand, is where the initial digestion occurs with the help of bile and pancreatic enzymes. Villi are not a segment of the intestine but rather structures that line the intestinal wall, increasing surface area for