what does pancreas do

what does pancreas do

1 year ago 37
Nature

The pancreas is an organ located in the abdomen, behind the stomach, and has two main functions: an exocrine function that helps in digestion and an endocrine function that regulates blood sugar. The exocrine function of the pancreas is to produce enzymes that help digest food, particularly proteins, fats, and starches. These enzymes include trypsin and chymotrypsin to digest proteins, amylase for the digestion of carbohydrates, and lipase to break down fats. The pancreas releases these enzymes into the small intestine via a system of ducts that culminate in the main pancreatic duct. The endocrine function of the pancreas is to produce hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. The pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which helps to control the amount of sugar in the blood. Other hormones produced by the pancreas include glucagon, which raises blood sugar levels, and somatostatin, which regulates the production of other hormones in the body.

In summary, the pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion and regulating blood sugar levels in the body.

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