The small intestine is not a substitute for the stomach. Both the small intestine and the stomach are important digestive organs with different digestive functions.
1. Functions of the stomach: The main functions of the stomach are to store, grind, mix and expel food into the small intestine. The stomach is able to secrete gastric acid and various digestive enzymes to facilitate the digestion of food. The stomach produces endogenous factors that promote the maturation of red blood cells, which can prevent the occurrence of anemia.
2. Functions of the small intestine: After the food discharged from the stomach and duodenum enters the small intestine, it is broken down into small molecules that can be absorbed and is fully absorbed in the small intestine. The small intestine can also secrete small intestinal fluid, which contains a variety of digestive enzymes.
To summarize, the small intestine is not able to replace the stomach.