Which substances absorbed in the large intestine are used as energy, known as volatile fatty acids?

Which substances absorbed in the large intestine are used as energy, known as volatile fatty acids?

• A. Acetate, Propionate, Butyrate
• B. Glucose
• C. Amino acids
• D. Ketone bodies

Answer: (A)

Fermentation in the large intestine by gut bacteria converts dietary fiber into short-chain fatty acids that provide energy. The three main volatile fatty acids produced and absorbed are acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Butyrate is the primary energy source for colonocytes, supporting the health and function of the gut lining. Acetate and propionate enter general circulation, with propionate funneling to the liver for glucose production and acetate available to other tissues for energy. Glucose and amino acids are absorbed mainly in the small intestine, not produced by colonic fermentation, and ketone bodies are produced in the liver during periods of low carbohydrate availability, not as a primary product of large intestine fermentation.

Fermentation in the large intestine by gut bacteria converts dietary fiber into short-chain fatty acids that provide energy. The three main volatile fatty acids produced and absorbed are acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Butyrate is the primary energy source for colonocytes, supporting the health and function of the gut lining. Acetate and propionate enter general circulation, with propionate funneling to the liver for glucose production and acetate available to other tissues for energy.

Glucose and amino acids are absorbed mainly in the small intestine, not produced by colonic fermentation, and ketone bodies are produced in the liver during periods of low carbohydrate availability, not as a primary product of large intestine fermentation.