New analysis of gastrointestinal physiology reveals striking disparities in nutrient absorption capacity across the digestive tract. The jejunum emerges as the dominant macronutrient processor, responsible for extracting 95 percent of dietary lipids, amino acids, and B vitamins. The duodenum follows as the secondary absorption site, capturing 85 percent of essential minerals and fat-soluble vitamins essential for bone health, immune function, and vision. The ileum contributes 60 percent recovery of vitamin B12 and bile salts—critical for sustained nutrient cycling. In contrast, the stomach absorbs only 15 percent of total nutrients, primarily small water-soluble molecules and ethanol, while the large intestine focuses on water reclamation and microbial metabolite synthesis. These quantified absorption rates illuminate why disease affecting specific segments produces predictable nutritional deficiencies. Read the full article on GMJ Newsroom.
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