Which organ is responsible for the majority of digestion and absorption of food?

The small intestine is the primary organ responsible for the majority of digestion and absorption of food. This organ is specifically designed to carry out these crucial functions. It is lined with tiny, finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption significantly. The small intestine is divided into three parts: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum.

In the duodenum, digestive enzymes and bile work to break down food. As the partially digested food moves into the jejunum and ileum, the absorption of nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats takes place through the walls of the intestine into the bloodstream. The small intestine's extensive surface and its ability to absorb nutrients efficiently make it the key site for digestion and absorption compared to other organs like the stomach or large intestine, which have different roles in the digestive process.