Michigan Esthetician State Board Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of the pancreas?

1. Regulating blood sugar levels

2. Secreting hormones

3. Producing enzymes that aid in digestion

4. Filtering toxins from the blood

The correct answer is: Producing enzymes that aid in digestion

The primary role of the pancreas is to produce enzymes that aid in digestion. This organ is crucial for breaking down various nutrients in the food you consume, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, allowing the nutrients to be absorbed by the body. The digestive enzymes secreted by the pancreas, such as amylase, lipase, and proteases, work in the small intestine to facilitate the digestive process, ensuring that the body receives the energy and nutrients necessary for proper functioning. While the pancreas also has important roles in regulating blood sugar levels and secreting hormones, such as insulin and glucagon, these functions work in tandem with its digestive capabilities. The filtering of toxins from the blood is primarily the function of the liver, not the pancreas. Therefore, the focus on enzyme production is what defines the primary purpose of the pancreas in the context of digestion.