What is the pancreas and what does it do?
The pancreas is a large organ (approximately six inches long) of the digestive and endocrine systems. It is located deep within the upper abdomen, surrounded by the stomach, small intestine, liver and spleen. This organ is shaped like a pear, broad at one end and narrow at the other end. It is divided in three sections – the broad end of the pancreas is called the head, the midsection is called the body, and the narrow end is called the tail.
The pancreas performs two important functions within the body.
The pancreas produces digestive juices and enzymes to help digest fats and proteins. When food has been partially digested by the stomach, it is pushed into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Secreting its enzymes into the duodenum helps to prevent the protein-digesting enzyme known as trypsin from eating the protein-based pancreas or its duct. Pancreatic digestive juices and enzymes are released through a small duct attached to the duodenum to mix with the food. The exocrine pancreas also produces enzymes that break down carbohydrates (amylase) and fats (lipase) as well as sodium bicarbonate, which helps to neutralize the stomach acids in food.
Another important pancreatic function is to produce the hormone insulin together with a variety of other hormones. Glucose is produced from the breaking down of starches and carbohydrates. It is absorbed through the wall of the digestive tract and passes into the bloodstream. Insulin helps to control the body’s blood sugar (glucose) levels and keep them within healthy levels. It is produced by small groups of pancreatic cells called the Islets of Langerhans, which are also known as the “islet cells”.
Insulin is secreted when your blood sugar is raised and it causes the muscles and other bodily tissues to take up glucose from the blood to fuel their activity. Insulin also promotes the absorption of glucose into the liver, where it is stored as glycogen for use in response to stress or exercise. If the islets of Langerhans produce too little insulin, this raises the level of glucose in the blood. This can then result in diabetes as well as increase the risk of a number of other problems throughout the body. It is therefore very important to support and encourage pancreatic health!
Prevention is better than cure!
Modern diets with high sugar and fat contents have affected the health of people all over the world-- and your furry friends are no exception. Find the best diet for your pet. A diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates slows the digestive process and helps to stabilize blood sugar levels.
In obese animals, losing weight is also advised, and your vet may advise a prescription diet. However, if you find your pet dislikes pet food, you can prepare home-cooked food (do this in consultation with a veterinary nutritionist). Avoid commercially-prepared pet foods, which may contain high amounts of sugar and preservatives.
Exercise is another important part of keeping your pet’s blood sugar levels under control. However, be sure to keep the activity level the same from day to day. The time of day when the exercise is done, how vigorous the activity is, and how long the activity lasts all affect your pet’s blood glucose levels. If you suddenly double the amount of exercise , be warned that your pet’s blood glucose levels might drop too low, as the body needs more glucose during exercise.
How can herbal remedies and dietary supplements help?
There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies and dietary supplements can help to promote pancreatic health and naturally keep pet blood sugar levels within the normal range.
Along with the correct lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and dietary supplements can make all the difference to your pet’s health.
What is GlucoBalance?
GlucoBalance contains a specially selected combination of herbs known for their ability to maintain pancreatic health and support the pancreas in its function of the normal production of insulin.
Research has demonstrated that the ingredients in GlucoBalance help to keep blood sugar levels within the normal range.
GlucoBalance is also an excellent all-round tonic supplement and will also help to maintain healthy circulation and cardiovascular health, while supporting immune functioning and promoting feelings of health and vitality.
GlucoBalance is very effective used alone, or as part of a total veterinarian program.
