Ileum

/ɪlˈiːəm/

[noun]

Ileum

[NOUN]

the final segment of the small intestine that connects to the large intestine in the human body

What is "ileum"?

The ileum is a crucial part of the digestive system, located between the jejunum and the cecum. It plays a significant role in absorbing nutrients, minerals, and vitamins from partially digested food, which are then transported to the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. The ileum also aids in the reabsorption of bile salts and vitamin B12. Its inner lining contains numerous small finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for efficient nutrient absorption.

Examples

1. The small intestine has three parts, the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum.

2. The final portion is called the terminal ileum, and it absorbs vitamin B12 and bile salts which are recycled.

3. Most commonly affected are the end of the small bowel, the ileum, and the beginning of the colon.

4. This happens in the small intestine's lower regions, the jejunum and ileum, which are coated in millions of tiny projections called villi.