Intestinal folds that multiply absorption surface to 250 m².
Intestinal villi are mucosal folds of the small intestine that increase absorption surface greatly. Each villus is itself covered with microvilli (border in bristles).
Without villi and microvilli, small intestine surface would be 0.5 m². With them, it reaches 250 m² (a tennis court). Intestinal cells of villi absorb nutrients and transport them to the blood or lymph. Celiac disease destroys villi, causing severe malabsorption.
Maximize absorption surface of nutrients in the small intestine.
Maintain villi health with fibers, probiotics, and avoiding excess AIN and alcohol.
The small intestine is larger than a tennis court — thanks to villi that it absorbs so much.
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