Do you know where your pancreas is located?
The pancreas is a gland, about six inches long and sits across the back of the belly, behind the stomach. It is surrounded by other organs including the small intestine, liver, and spleen. It is shaped like a flat pear or a fish extended horizontally across the belly. The pancreas is an essential organ for both endocrine and exocrine processes.
What is the function of pancreas?
- A healthy pancreas produces chemicals for digesting the food we eat. As part of the gastrointestinal organ system, the pancreas has two important functions.
1) It creates enzymes, which help digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates before they can be absorbed in the intestine. These enzymes are called lipase, amylase & proteinase.
2) It creates hormones (chemicals made from glands), the most important of which is insulin, which controls how the body uses and stores sugar (glucose).
- Balanced blood glucose levels play an important role in your liver, kidneys, and even your brain. Proper discharge of these hormones is important to many bodily systems, such as your nervous system and cardiovascular system.
Is it possible to live without a pancreas ?
Sure, you could survive without a pancreas. But you will need to make some changes to your life. Your pancreas is creating substances that control blood sugar and help your body digest food. So you will have to inject Insulin regularly to control blood sugar levels & also take enzymes in the form of tablets that will help digest food.
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