Anatomy and Physiology II Practice Test 2025 - Free Anatomy Practice Questions and Study Guide

The pancreas plays a crucial role in both digestion and blood sugar regulation. It produces digestive enzymes that are secreted into the small intestine, where they help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats into smaller, absorbable molecules. This involves enzymes such as amylase for carbohydrates, lipase for fats, and proteases for proteins, enabling effective nutrient absorption in the digestive tract.

In addition to its digestive functions, the pancreas is essential for maintaining normal blood sugar levels. It produces insulin and glucagon, hormones that help regulate glucose metabolism. Insulin lowers blood sugar by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, while glucagon raises blood sugar by signaling the liver to release stored glucose. This dual role in digestion and metabolic regulation is critical for overall homeostasis and illustrates why the pancreas is often described as both an exocrine (for digestion) and an endocrine (for hormone production) gland.