Pancreas Diseases

The Pancreas and Its Functions

An elongated gland of 7-8 inches positioned horizontally behind the lower portion of the stomach, the pancreas creates multiple substances essential to converting the food we eat into fuel for the body's cells. The pancreatic exocrine glands produce enzymes that digest food products including proteins, fat, and carbohydrates. These enzymes are secreted into a system of ducts located in the pancreas. The endocrine islets of Langerhans, usually referred to as islets, are tiny clusters of cells scattered throughout the pancreas. Islet cells produce hormones including insulin, glucagon, and somastin that are essential to metabolizing carbohydrates and regulating blood sugar.