Why do I have a pancreas?

This organ injects special protein substances called enzymes into your small intestine to break down carbohydrates for fats and energy, and proteins for body-building materials. The pancreas has an endocrine function because it releases juices directly into the bloodstream, and it has an exocrine function because it releases juices into ducts.

Enzymes, or digestive juices, are secreted by the pancreas into the small intestine. There, it continues breaking down food that has left the stomach.

The pancreas also produces the hormone insulin and secretes it into the bloodstream, where it regulates the body’s glucose or sugar level. Problems with insulin control can lead to diabetes. Other possible health problems include pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

A healthy pancreas produces chemicals to digest the food we eat. The exocrine tissues secrete a clear, watery, alkaline juice that contains several enzymes. These break down food into small molecules that can be absorbed by the intestines. When blood sugar falls, pancreatic alpha cells release the hormone glucagon. Glucagon causes glycogen to be broken down into glucose in the liver. The glucose then enters the bloodstream, restoring blood sugar levels to normal.

 

Picture Credit : Google