Accessory digestive gland

Accessory Digestive Gland is a term used in the field of Anatomy and Physiology to refer to the organs that aid in the process of Digestion, but are not part of the main Digestive tract. These glands include the Liver, Pancreas, and Gallbladder.

Function

The primary function of the accessory digestive glands is to produce and secrete substances that assist in digestion. These substances include Enzymes, Bile, and other necessary fluids.

Liver

The Liver is the largest gland in the body and performs a variety of functions. It produces Bile, a substance that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. The liver also detoxifies harmful substances, stores vitamins and iron, and converts stored sugar into usable sugar when the body's sugar (glucose) levels fall below normal.

Pancreas

The Pancreas is a gland that serves two primary functions: it produces Insulin and other hormones to help regulate blood sugar levels, and it produces pancreatic juice which contains digestive enzymes that assist in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in the small intestine.

Gallbladder

The Gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. After eating, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.

Diseases and Disorders

There are several diseases and disorders that can affect the accessory digestive glands. These include Hepatitis and Cirrhosis of the liver, Pancreatitis, and Gallstones. Treatment for these conditions varies, but may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

See Also

• Digestive System
• Endocrine System
• Metabolism