• The ileum is adapted for absorption as it is?very long?and has a?highly folded surface with millions of villi?(tiny, finger like projections)
• These adaptations massively?increase the surface area?of the ileum, allowing absorption to take place faster and more efficiently

Adaptations of the small intestine

• Microvilli?on the surface of the villus further increase surface area for faster absorption of nutrients
• Wall of villus is?one cell thick?meaning that there is only a short distance for absorption to happen by diffusion and active transport
• Well supplied with a?network of blood capillaries?that transport glucose and amino acids away from the small intestine in the blood
• Lacteal?runs through the centre of the villus to transport fatty acids and glycerol away from the small intestine in the lymph