A Summary of the Human Digestive System

by, Mark

The Pancreas

Facts for the Pancreas

Located behind the stomach.

Secretes digestive juices and bicarbonate for the breaking down of food.

Diabetes mellitus, a severe pancreatic disease, occurs when the pancreas does not produce insulin, or secretes small amounts of it.

Sometimes the ducts leading from the pancreas are blocked. This is called acute pancreatisis. When the ducts are blocked, the digestive fluids build up in the pancreas. When this happens, the fluids are activated and digest the pancreas itself.

Information on the Pancreas

The pancreas gland is located behind and across the stomach. The role of the pancreas is basically to secrete digestive juices, which are used to break down fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and acids. Blood vessels surround the cells of the pancreas and secrete hormones into the blood called glucagon and insulin. Inside, the organ's appearance resembles a stalk with clusters of grapes attached to it. The clusters of cells flow into this duct and later into the duodenum for digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.

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Last Updated On: July 24, 2000