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Customer question:

Where is the pancreas located, and what is its function in our body? Anonymous customer's question

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Pharmacist's answer:

The pancreas is a gland about six centimeters long and is located in the abdominal cavity. It is located between the stomach, small intestine, liver, spleen, and gallbladder. Two vital blood vessels, the superior mesenteric artery and the superior mesenteric vein cross behind the neck of the pancreas. The pancreas is an exocrine and endocrine gland with two main functions – digestive and regulatory (blood sugar regulation).

Almost all of the pancreas (95%) comprises exocrine tissue that produces digestive juices. The rest of the tissue comprises endocrine cells called islets of Langerhans. These clusters of cells produce hormones that regulate blood sugar and pancreatic secretions. A healthy pancreas produces enzymes in the right amounts at the right time fto efficiently digestour food.

Exocrine function:

The pancreas contains exocrine glands that produce enzymes necessary for digestion. These enzymes include trypsin and chymotrypsin for protein digestion, amylase to digest carbohydrates, and lipase to break down fats.

When food enters the stomach, these juices are released into a system of ducts that terminate in the central duct of the pancreas. Pancreatic juices and bile, released in the duodenum, help the body digest fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Endocrine function:

The endocrine function of the pancreas is carried out by the cells of the islets of Langerhans, which create and release important hormones directly into the bloodstream. The two main hormones of the pancreas are insulin, which lowers blood sugar, and glucagon, which raises blood sugar.

Interesting reading: Pancreatitis Symptoms forum

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