The intestine is a long, continuous tube that runs from the stomach to the anus. Most of the absorption of nutrients and water occurs in the intestines. The intestines include the small intestine, the large intestine, and the rectum. The small intestine is responsible for absorbing most of the nutrients from what we eat and drink. The smooth tissue of the small intestine, which is divided into the duodenum and ileum. The large intestine absorbs water from waste, creating stool. When stool enters the rectum, the nerves there create the urge to defecate.