The functions and effects of pancreas are discussed below-
Pancreas, also known as pancreas in english, is an essential gland in the human body. it is located behind the stomach, between the liver and pancreas. the pancreas mainly performs two main functions: endocrine function (secretion of hormones into the blood) and exocrine function (secretion of enzymes into the digestive system).
Structure of pancreas:
The pancreas is a long and flat tube-like gland. it has three main parts-
Head: the largest part of the pancreas, which drains into the duodenum (combination of secretory enzymes and bile).
body: the middle part, which helps in the production of hormones.
Tail: It is the last part of the pancreas, which is located near the anus.
Functions of the pancreas:
1. Endocrine function:
The pancreas produces hormones, which are important in regulating blood glucose levels. the main hormones are:
Insulin: Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas. it regulates the flow of glucose into the cells of the body, thereby keeping blood glucose levels stable. a lack of insulin causes diabetes, where blood glucose rises. in type 1 diabetes, the body cannot produce insulin, so insulin injections are required. in type 2 diabetes, the body is unable to use insulin. proper regulation of insulin is important for maintaining health. proper diet, exercise and medication help improve insulin function .helps glucose flow into the body''s cells and lowers blood glucose levels.
Qlucagon: Qlucagon is a hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. it helps in raising blood glucose levels. when blood glucose levels drop, glucagon signals the liver to release glucose and convert glycogen into glucose. this is important in the treatment of diabetes, especially type 1 diabetes, where blood glucose levels can drop dangerously low. glucagon''s function is to help maintain the body''s energy balance and it acts opposite to insulin, thereby playing an important role in glucose regulation.
Somatostatin: Regulates the activity of insulin and glucagon, which helps stabilize blood glucose levels.
2. Exocrine functions:
The pancreas produces enzymes important to the digestive system, which help digest food. the main enzymes are:
Amylose: Helps digest carbohydrates.
Lipase: Used for fat digestion.
Protease: Useful for protein digestion.
these enzymes flow into the duodenum, where they mix with food to begin the digestion process.
Effects of pancreas:
The function of the pancreas has a profound effect on the overall health and normal functioning of the body. some of its important effects are:
1. Control of glucose levels:
The main function of the pancreas is to control blood glucose levels. if insulin and glucagon are not in proper balance, problems like diabetes can occur. in type 1 diabetes, insulin production is reduced, and in type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance of the cells increases.
2. Digestive process
Enzymes produced by the pancreas are essential in the digestive process. if food is not digested, the absorption of nutrients is disrupted, which is harmful to the body.
3. Maintaining the energy level of the body
maintaining proper blood glucose levels is helpful in regulating the body''s energy levels. glucose flows into the cells via insulin to increase the body''s energy, which is important for carrying out daily tasks.
Pancreatic diseases:
Various problems and diseases can occur with the pancreas:
1.Diabetes: Blood glucose levels increase due to decreased or resistance to insulin production.
2. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be acute or chronic. it disturbs the digestion of food and can cause severe pain.
3. Pancreatic cancer: Pancreatic cancer, which is usually diagnosed late and has a life expectancy.
Remedies and care:
Some common remedies and care can be taken to keep the pancreas healthy:
1. Healthy eating habits: Eating healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, helps keep the pancreas healthy.
2. Weight control: Obesity is harmful for pancreas, so regular exercise and healthy diet should be taken.
3.Regular health check-up:normal level:
fasting (first morning glucose test): 70-99 mg/dl
after (2 hours after eating): below 140 mg/dl
prediabetes:
fasting: 100 -125 mg/dl
later: 140 -199 mg/dl
diabetes:
fasting: 126 mg/dl or more
later: 200 mg/dl or more
high and low glucose:
high (hyperglycemia): above 180 mg/dl
low (hypoglycemia): below 70 mg/dl
this level of guidance is generally followed, but a doctor may consult based on individual health conditions.
Calculation:
Pancreas is a very important gland that controls various activities of our body. its proper functioning and health are essential for our normal life. awareness should be raised to protect the health of the pancreas and prevent disease, so that we can live a healthy and active life.
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