Why is the pancreas important to the digestive system
The Role and Anatomy of the Pancreas
The pancreas is an important organ in
the digestive system it is located in the upper abdomen directly behind the
stomach and next to the small intestine in most adults it is between six and ten
inches long and two inches wide the pancreas is comprised primarily of a
network of tubes or pancreatic ducts that release liquids into the upper
portion of the small intestine called the duodenum anatomically the pancreas
is divided into three regions the head the body and the tail
the pancreas has two functions endocrine and exocrine it's endocrine function is
to produce the chemicals or hormones that regulate blood sugar such as
insulin it's exocrine function is to produce enzymes
that help to digest food pancreatic amylase breaks down carbohydrates or
starches into glucose proteases break down protein into amino acids and
lipases break down fats because these digestive enzymes are so powerful they
are wrapped in a protective layer while they are in the pancreas to reach the
gastrointestinal tract the digestive enzymes travel through the pancreatic
ducts and are eventually released into the duodenum at the major papilla also
known as the ampulla of Vater once they are completely out of the pancreas the
protective layer is removed and the enzymes become active bile from the
gallbladder also enters the duodenum at the major papilla
bile breaks apart fat into smaller fat droplets which are easier for lipase to
digest when the pancreas is healthy it
contributes to a healthy digestive system
however when our pancreas does not function correctly and is unwell we can
have trouble digesting food properly or maintaining our blood sugar in a healthy
range the consequences of an unwell pancreas may include diarrhea bloating
flatulence oily and foul-smelling stool weight loss malnutrition poor blood
sugar control and diabetes heavy alcohol consumption high-fat diets
eating large meals being overweight and tobacco products can put stress on your
pancreas causing it to work less well there are also some genetic conditions
that affect the pancreas notably cystic fibrosis
to help keep your pancreas healthy eat a very diet that is rich in fruits and
vegetables include fish and white meats as favorite sources of protein limit
high-fat foods and alcohol to special occasions maintain a healthy weight and
watch your cholesterol and triglyceride levels
