Proteins
These "building blocks" are the final form proteins must be broken into for absorption.
Amino Acids
This simple sugar is the primary form in which most carbs enter the bloodstream.
Monosaccharides
These small, spherical complexes carry insoluble lipids to the brush border.
Micelles
Most protein absorption occurs in which specific segment of the small intestine.
Jejunum
This specific transport protein moves glucose and galactose into enterocytes.
SGLT1 (Sodium-Glucose Transporter 1)
Unlike other nutrients, lipids are first absorbed into these vessels of the lymphatic system.
Lacteals
To be absorbed, amino acids usually require the co-transport of this specific ion.
Sodium (Na+)
This process describes how fructose is absorbed, requiring no energy but using a carrier.
Facilitated diffusion
Inside the enterocyte, lipids are repackaged into these large lipoprotein particles.
Chylomicrons
Small chains of 2 or 3 amino acids, known by these terms, can be absorbed intact.
Dipeptides and Tripeptides
After leaving the enterocyte, monosaccharides travel via this vessel directly to the liver.
Hepatic Portal Vein
This enzyme, found on capillary walls, breaks down triglycerides within chylomicrons.
Lipoprotein Lipase
This specialized process allows whole proteins (like antibodies in breast milk) to be absorbed.
Transcytosis (or Endocytosis)
This is the specific name of the transporter (GLUT) that moves fructose across the apical membrane.
GLUT5
Short and medium-chain fatty acids are unique because they do not require these for transport.
Bile salts (or Chylomicrons/Micelles)