Question

Which of the following is absorbed into the lacteal (lymph vessel) and then transported into the blood capillary?

• A. Glucose
• B. Amino acids
• C. Fructose
• D. Fatty acids

Answer 1

The correct option is D Fatty acids

Absorption of fructose takes place by facilitated diffusion. In facilitated diffusion, there is a carrier protein that helps in the absorption of fructose into the bloodstream. It is a passive process, thus does not require energy.

Glucose and amino acids are absorbed into the bloodstream by simple diffusion and also by active transport. Active transport is a process in which the molecules are transported from a region of lower concentration to a region of higher concentration with the expense of energy.

Fatty acids are not directly absorbed into the bloodstream. They are converted into micelles with the help of bile salts. At a later stage, the bile salts are removed and a layer of protein is formed over the fatty acid called chylomicrons. These are then transported into the lacteals present within the villi in the small intestine. These are absorbed into the lacteals by simple diffusion. Simple diffusion is a process by which the substances move from a region of higher concentration to a region of lower concentration.