The pancreas is the gland that produces the insulin hormone.
Understanding Insulin and Its Source
Insulin is a vital hormone for regulating glucose levels in the body, as noted in the provided reference: "Insulin is an essential hormone produced by the pancreas. Its main role is to control glucose levels in our bodies." This statement clearly identifies the pancreas as the source of insulin.
The Role of the Pancreas
The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach. It has two primary functions:
- Exocrine Function: Producing digestive enzymes.
- Endocrine Function: Producing hormones like insulin and glucagon.
The endocrine function is particularly relevant to the question, as it is where specialized cells called beta cells, found within structures called Islets of Langerhans, produce and secrete insulin.
How Insulin Works
Once secreted by the pancreas, insulin helps glucose, a type of sugar derived from food, move from the bloodstream into cells to be used for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose stays in the blood, leading to a condition known as diabetes.
Key Points:
- Insulin is crucial for controlling blood sugar levels.
- The pancreas is the sole producer of insulin.
- Beta cells within the pancreas are responsible for insulin production.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Hormone | Insulin |
| Producing Gland | Pancreas |
| Cell Type | Beta cells (within Islets of Langerhans) |
| Primary Function | Regulate glucose levels in the bloodstream |
Therefore, the answer to the question "Which gland produces insulin hormone?" is unequivocally the pancreas.
