Which food substance is absorbed during digestion

Options

A. Carbohydrates
B. Proteins
C. Vitamins
D. Fats

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Digestion and Absorption**:
- Digestion is the process where food substances are broken down into smaller components. Absorption is when these smaller components are taken up by the body.

2. **Identifying Food Substances**:
- The main food substances we consume include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

3. **Absorption of Nutrients**:
- Most nutrients require digestion before they can be absorbed. For example:
- **Carbohydrates** are broken down into simple sugars.
- **Proteins** are digested into amino acids.
- **Fats** are emulsified and broken down into fatty acids and glycerol.

4. **Direct Absorption**:
- Some substances do not require digestion and can be absorbed directly:
- **Water** and **ions** (like sodium and potassium) can be absorbed directly in the intestines.
- **Vitamins** can also be absorbed without prior digestion.

5. **Types of Vitamins**:
- **Fat-soluble vitamins** (A, D, E, K) are absorbed along with dietary fats.
- **Water-soluble vitamins** (like B vitamins and vitamin C) are absorbed through simple diffusion in the small intestine.
- **Vitamin B12** requires a special intrinsic factor for absorption, which is produced in the stomach.

6. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1: Carbohydrates** - Incorrect, as they must be digested first.
- **Option 2: Proteins** - Incorrect, as they also need to be broken down before absorption.
- **Option 3: Vitamins** - Correct, as they can be absorbed directly without digestion.
- **Option 4: Fats** - Incorrect, as they require digestion before absorption.

7. **Conclusion**:
- The food substance that is absorbed during digestion is **Vitamins**.