Intestinal fluid balance

Definitions & Key takeaways

Intestinal fluid balance is a process that involves the absorption of water and electrolytes from digested food by the intestinal villi; and the secretion of fluid and electrolytes into the intestine by various glands of the bowel epithelium. Normally, fluid absorption is greater than fluid secretion. So, the net result will be fluid absorption. Disruption of this balance can result in diarrhea or constipation.