1. Villi That Line the Walls of the Small Intestine Absorb Nutrients. Villi that line the walls of the small intestine absorb nutrients into capillaries of the circulatory system and lacteals of the lymphatic system. Villi contain capillary beds, as well as lymphatic vessels called lacteals.

How do villi make absorption easier?

On the surface of each columnar cell there are about 600 very fine projections called microvilli that further increase the absorptive area of each villus. Villi of the intestine move in swaying, contracting motions. These movements are believed to increase the flow of blood and lymph and to enhance absorption.

How the villi are adapted for their role in absorption of nutrients?

Villi are specialized for absorption in the small intestine as they have a thin wall, one cell thick, which enables a shorter diffusion path. They have a large surface area so there will be more efficient absorption of fatty acids and glycerol into the blood stream.