Texas A&M University (TAMU) NUTR 202 Fundamentals of Human Nutrition Exam 1 Practice

Transit time through the large intestine reflects how long content stays in the colon for water absorption and feces formation. The colon moves contents more slowly than the small intestine, allowing maximum water removal and bulk formation. The typical healthy range is about 12–24 hours, which is why that option fits best. Shorter ranges (like 6–12 or 8–16 hours) correspond more to the small intestine, where digestion happens more quickly, while longer ranges (24–48 hours) occur with constipation or slower motility. A fiber‑rich diet with adequate fluids helps maintain a steady transit by adding bulk and retaining water in the stool.