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The Secret of the Pancreas: How Does This Mysterious Organ Affect Your Blood Sugar?
The pancreas plays a vital role in our bodies by regulating blood sugar. This mysterious organ is often the focus of research for many diseases that hinder health, such as diabetes and pancreatitis. This article will explore the structure and function of the pancreas and how it affects our blood sugar levels.
Basic structure of the pancreas
The pancreas is located in the abdomen and has both endocrine and exocrine functions. Anatomically, the pancreas is divided into the head, neck, body, and tail. In adults, the pancreas is about 12 to 15 centimeters in length. Its structure is very complex. In addition to many blood vessels and other organs, the pancreas also has two main ducts, namely the main pancreatic duct and the accessory pancreatic duct.
The exocrine function of the pancreas is mainly to secrete digestive juices to help break down food, while the endocrine function is to regulate blood sugar levels.
Endocrine and exocrine functions
The endocrine tissue of the pancreas is mainly composed of islets of Langerhans, which contain different types of cells: α cells secrete glucagon, β cells secrete insulin, and δ cells secrete somatostatin. The work of these cells is crucial in maintaining blood sugar balance in the body.
Mechanisms of blood sugar regulation
When blood sugar levels are too low, alpha cells release glucagon, prompting the liver to release stored glucose; conversely, when blood sugar levels are too high, beta cells release insulin to promote the absorption and storage of glucose. The secretion of insulin is derived from the absorption of glucose by β cells, which triggers the depolarization of the cell membrane.
Effects on digestionThe pancreas secretes about 1.5 to 3 liters of digestive juice each year to help eliminate nutrients from food.
The exocrine function of the pancreas is involved in the digestive process. It secretes digestive enzymes into the duodenum of the small intestine, which are responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The cells of the pancreas are arranged in small clusters called acini and release enzymes in their endocrine fluid, which are activated by specific active enzymes after entering the intestine.
Pancreas Health and Disease
The health of your pancreas is crucial to preventing a variety of diseases. Chronic pancreatitis can be caused by long-term alcohol consumption or gallstones and can lead to many other health problems. Clinically, doctors often diagnose pancreatic diseases by testing pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase in the blood.
Risk factors for chronic pancreatitis include diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
Risks of Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a disease with a poor prognosis and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Pancreatic cancer is more difficult to detect than other cancers, which increases its lethality. Early signs are often not obvious, which causes patients to often miss the best time for treatment.
Questions for consideration
How important is the pancreas in our daily diet? How can we maintain the health of this organ to prevent future risks of disease?
