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190 / JAIN STUDIES AND SCIENCE
functions. When unprocessed sugar needs to be converted into the kind of energy our cells use, it travels to the liver. There, glucagon breaks down the glycogen variety of sugar and releases its components into our blood. Then, insulin appears at the site of cells to help them easily absorb the sugar.
On dual duty, the pancreas also creates digestive juices as a member of the exocrine system. These fluids break down those nutrients which the stomach's acids could not effectively metabolise. Since the pancreas is so close to the small intestine, there are many ducts streaming from its head to carry the enzymes to the duodenum, the beginning of the intestine. The juices start out alkaline in the pancreas, but when they meet substances bathed in stomach acid in the duodenum, they become acidic. These enzymes include amylase, which digests fat, trypsin for protein, and lipase which works on carbohydrates. The resulting nutrients are distributed further down the small intestine. It is because of these dual activities, both the exocrine and endocrine systems lay claim to this organ. Our body's endocrine system regulates hormones and other substances through its direct access to the bloodstream, cells, and organs. The exocrine system works via ducts to digest food in the intestinal tract.
Malfunctions of the pancreas include diabetes, pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and cystic fibrosis. Any interference with our insulin or enzyme levels wreaks havoc on our wellbeing, whether it is due to genes or diet. To ensure a healthy pancreas, it is essential to maintain good nutrition. The Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands are orange-coloured endocrine glands which are located on the top of both kidneys. The adrenal glands are triangular shaped and measure about one-half inch in height and 3 inches in length. Each gland consists of a medulla (the centre of the gland) which is surrounded by the cortex.
The adrenal cortex produces hormones necessary for fluid and electrolyte (salt) balance in the body. Three important cortex hormones are:
• Cortisone (Glucocorticoids)
• Aldosterone (Mineralocorticoids)
Androgens and Oestrogens (Testosterone and Progesterone)
The glucocorticoids control metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The mineralocorticoids regulate balance of fluids and mineral ions like potassium and sodium. Adrenal sex hormones secrete in very small quantities and only complement the other sex hormones produced by testes or ovaries.
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