What is the function of villi in the small intestine?

Villi in the small intestine serve the crucial function of increasing the absorptive surface area for efficient nutrient absorption. These finger-like projections extend from the intestinal lining into the intestinal cavity. Each villus contains a network of blood vessels and a lacteal, a lymphatic vessel. The extensive surface area, combined with microvilli on the cell membranes of absorptive cells, enhances the absorption of nutrients such as amino acids, fatty acids, and sugars into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Villi play a pivotal role in optimizing the absorption of digested nutrients, ensuring their transport to the body for energy production and metabolic processes.