Ileum

Ileum - the final portion of the small intestine, which leads into the large intestine.

The final stages of digestion are completed in this portion of the small intestine, where foods and liquids are fully broken down into their nutrient components such as:

• Smaller molecules like glucose from carbohydrates, amino acids from proteins and fatty acids and cholesterol from fats
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Salts
• Water

As the digestive mixture travels through the small intestine, the nutrients are absorbed and transferred to the bloodstream and the liver. Any food that has not been digested in the small intestine, reaches the large intestine.

At the point of reaching the Ileum, the future stools get closer and closer to eventual defecation.