What is the main function of the pancreas?

The main function of the pancreas is to produce insulin and digestive enzymes. The pancreas plays a crucial role in both the endocrine and exocrine systems. As part of the endocrine system, it regulates blood sugar levels by producing insulin, a hormone essential for allowing cells to take in glucose from the bloodstream, thus controlling energy levels and metabolism.

In its exocrine function, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. These enzymes include amylase, proteases, and lipases, each of which facilitates the breakdown of different types of nutrients, ensuring that the body can absorb and utilize them effectively.

This multifaceted role of producing hormones and enzymes makes the pancreas vital for both metabolic regulation and digestion, underscoring why the choice highlighting its function in insulin and enzyme production is the most accurate.