What does your pancreas actually do in your body?

Your pancreas serves two main functions. First, it acts as an exocrine gland, producing digestive enzymes like amylase, lipase, and proteases that flow into your small intestine to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from food. It also releases bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid entering the intestine. Second, it acts as an endocrine gland, producing hormones directly into your bloodstream. The most important are insulin and glucagon, which work together to regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin lowers blood sugar by helping cells absorb glucose, while glucagon raises it by signaling the liver to release stored glucose. Diabetes occurs when this insulin-producing function fails or becomes impaired.