EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Through its various hormones, particularly glucagon and insulin, the pancreas maintains blood glucose levels within a very narrow range of 4–6 mM. This preservation is accomplished by the opposing and balanced actions of glucagon and insulin, referred to as glucose homeostasis.

Detailed explanation-2: -Insulin is the main regulator of sugar in the bloodstream. High insulin levels drive sugar out of the bloodstream into muscle, fat and liver cells where it is stored for future use. Low insulin levels allow sugar and other fuels to be released back into the blood stream.

Detailed explanation-3: -The endocrine component of the pancreas is made up of Langerhans islets, which are islet cells that directly generate and release important hormones into the bloodstream. Two of the main pancreatic hormones are insulin, which lowers blood sugar, and glucagon, which raises blood sugar.

Detailed explanation-4: -The pancreas is very close to the stomach. As soon as food is eaten, the pancreas releases digestive enzymes into the bowel to break food down. As the food is digested, and nutrient levels in the blood rise, the pancreas produces insulin to help the body store the glucose (energy) away.