Question

Can you live without a pancreas?

Answer 1

The function of the pancreas:

1. Beta-cells in the pancreas produce insulin hormone that helps to reduce blood sugar levels.
2. Alpha-cells produce glucagon and delta-cells produce somatostatin.
3. Glucagon helps to increase blood sugar levels.
4. So, both insulin and glucagon hormones are required to maintain normal blood sugar levels.
5. The pancreas also produces important enzymes- pancreatic lipase, amylase, and protease for digestion.
6. So, it is possible to live without a pancreas but the quality of life will be minimized drastically, and need to be dependent on medications.