Lacteals are associated with absorption of

Options

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

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Lacteals**: Lacteals are specialized lymphatic vessels located in the villi of the small intestine. They play a crucial role in the absorption of certain nutrients.

2. **Identifying the Nutrients**: The primary nutrients associated with lacteals are fats, specifically fatty acids and glycerol. These nutrients are not soluble in water, which makes their absorption into the bloodstream more complex.

3. **Formation of Micelles**: When fats are digested, they are first emulsified into small droplets called micelles. This process allows the fats to be transported through the intestinal mucosa.

4. **Conversion to Chylomicrons**: Once inside the intestinal cells, the fatty acids and glycerol are reassembled into larger fat globules known as chylomicrons. These chylomicrons are coated with proteins, making them water-soluble.

5. **Transport through Lacteals**: The chylomicrons are then transported into the lacteals, which are the lymphatic vessels in the villi of the small intestine. This is where the absorption of fats primarily occurs.

6. **Release into Bloodstream**: Finally, the chylomicrons are released from the lacteals into the lymphatic system and eventually enter the bloodstream, allowing the body to utilize the absorbed fats.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, lacteals are primarily associated with the absorption of fats (fatty acids and glycerol).

**Final Answer**: Lacteals are associated with the absorption of fats.

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