NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

The absorption of fructose by intestinal mucosa is

  • A. co- transport mechanism
  • B. simple diffusion
  • C. facilitated transport
  • D. active transport
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: facilitated transport. Fructose is absorbed through facilitated diffusion using specific carrier proteins in the intestinal mucosa. This process does not require energy input and allows fructose to move down its concentration gradient. Unlike active transport (requiring energy) and co-transport mechanisms (involving multiple substances), fructose absorption occurs through facilitated transport by specific carrier proteins. Simple diffusion is not the main mechanism for fructose absorption due to its hydrophilic nature. Thus, facilitated transport best describes how fructose is absorbed by the intestinal mucosa.