Understanding Villi: How Your Small Intestine Absorbs Nutrients

The hair-like things in the small intestine are called villi. They are small, finger-like projections that line the walls of the small intestine and help to absorb nutrients from food. Villi are covered in tiny microvilli, which further increase the surface area for absorption. The villi are also home to many blood vessels, which help to transport the absorbed nutrients to the rest of the body.