1. The Perfect Pancreas
The pancreas is an abdominal organ located behind the stomach. It attaches to the first part of the small intestine on one side and to the liver and gallbladder through a shared bile duct on the other. Though it's rather small, only about 6 inches long, normal pancreas function is vital to the body. The pancreas makes the hormone insulin, which is used to process sugar within the body and enzymes that aid in digestion in the small intestines. Because of this dual purpose, the pancreas is a compound gland.
2. Pancreas and Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is the result of the immune system attacking the pancreatic cells that make insulin. This lack of insulin prevents the body from efficiently making energy out of sugar and results in high and dangerous blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes is with diet and exercise but may also require insulin shots. The pancreas still produces insulin in type 2 diabetes but the body doesn't respond to it normally. The pancreas then produces more insulin and can eventually wear out from overproduction. Type 2 diabetes is easier to control with proper diet and exercise but can require insulin shots in some cases.
3. Pancreas and Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages, making it one of the most deadly forms of cancer. This type of cancer begins when damaged DNA causes cells to grow out of control and produce tumors in the bile duct. The cause of damaged DNA in most cases of pancreatic cancer is unknown, though some cases may be due to heredity. Pancreatic cancer is more common in African-American men, diabetics, smokers and the overweight.
4. Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis occurs when the enzymes produced in this organ actually attack the pancreas. This may occur for a short period of time and then stop or it can develop gradually and last for years. The symptoms of pancreatitis include pain, nausea, fever and vomiting and can lead to problems that are more complicated. Excessive alcohol use and gallstones can bring on pancreatitis, though it can also occur for other unknown reasons. You may be able to alleviate pancreatitis with minor change of your diet but if it's more severe, it may require the use of enzyme supplements or even surgery.
5. Pancreatic Insufficiency
Another pancreas problem, pancreatic insufficiency, is the inability of the pancreas to produce enough enzymes. This may be due to chronic pancreatitis but can also be a result of cystic fibrosis. This condition prevents the body from absorbing essential nutrients and can cause weight loss and diarrhea from excessive fat in your stool. Enzyme supplements and vitamins can help to correct this condition.
