<P> The small intestine or small bowel is the part of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and the large intestine , and is where most of the end absorption of food takes place . The small intestine has three distinct regions -- the duodenum , jejunum , and ileum . The duodenum is the shortest part of the small intestine and is where preparation for absorption begins . It also receives bile and pancreatic juice through the pancreatic duct , controlled by the sphincter of Oddi . The primary function of the small intestine is the absorption of nutrients and minerals from food , using small finger - like protrusions called villi . </P>
where are most nutrients absorbed in the human digestive tract
The small intestine