What is the primary role of the pancreas in the digestive system?

• A. To secrete bile for fat digestion
• B. To secrete digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar
• C. To absorb nutrients from food
• D. To produce red blood cells

Answer: (B)

The primary role of the pancreas in the digestive system is to secrete digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar. The pancreas produces a variety of enzymes that are crucial for the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These enzymes are released into the small intestine where they aid in breaking down food, allowing nutrients to be absorbed more efficiently.

In addition to its digestive functions, the pancreas plays a vital role in maintaining blood glucose levels. It produces hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are essential for regulating blood sugar. Insulin lowers blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, while glucagon raises blood sugar levels by signaling the liver to release stored glucose.

This unique dual functionality of the pancreas as both an exocrine gland, releasing digestive enzymes, and an endocrine gland, regulating blood sugar, highlights its importance in both digestion and metabolic processes.