Which part of the small intestine mixes food with enzymes and bile?

• A. Ileum
• B. Jejunum
• C. Duodenum
• D. Cecum

Answer: (C)

Where food first mixes with digestive enzymes and bile happens in the duodenum. This first section of the small intestine receives chyme from the stomach and combines it with pancreatic juice containing enzymes and with bile that emulsifies fats. The pancreas also provides bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid, creating the right environment for enzymes to work. This is where the initial chemical digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins begins, with enzymes like pancreatic amylase, lipase, and proteases at play. After this mixing and digestion, the jejunum mainly absorbs nutrients, the ileum absorbs bile acids and vitamin B12, and the cecum begins water absorption as part of the large intestine.