Expert: Walter Hintz - 12/6/2007

Question
in biology class, we had a worksheet that said that we(humans) CAN NOT live without our small intestine. I said that we can, but only if we had a "bag" put in place of the small intestine to break down(although only being on a liquid diet). She then said "Tell me how, then, do you get your nutrients." So... I looked it up. After putting together the info that i collected, i went back to her and said that we would simply drink something like a protein drink with amino acids that. She then asked how we would get carbs. I said that we would drick complex carbs, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose. She said to elaborate. Here I am stuck and need you expert help. Please help me.     Thanks in advance,
                 Jake 12/6/07

Answer
I am afraid that you are on the losing end Jake. The main part of the small intestine (ileum and jejunum) is not necessary for digesting the carbs fats and proteins down to simple sugars and amino acids. This is done in the duodenum. The rest is nedded for  absorption through the villi into the blood stream. Your bag would need villi plus a connection withe the blood stream. The intestine has lacteals for absorbing fatty acids and glycerol into the lymphatic system.  The small intestine is a vital organ