Intestinal Hormones

Intestinal hormones are hormones (chemical substances) produced by cells of the small intestine that help to regulate processes such as digestion, absorption, and metabolism. They modulate the absorption of nutrients from the small intestine and are important for maintaining homeostasis in the body. The most well known intestinal hormones are secretin, cholecystokinin, and gastrin, among others. These hormones are vital to keep the body functioning optimally and help to break down food, absorb the nutrients, and distribute them throughout the body. They also help to control body weight, stimulate the growth of the small intestine, and support digestion. Deficiency or excess of these hormones can lead to malabsorption, digestive disorders, and other health problems.