Kõhunäärmeensüümid

Kõhunäärmeensüümid are digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. These enzymes are essential for breaking down the food we eat into smaller molecules that the body can absorb. The pancreas secretes these enzymes into the small intestine, where they perform their crucial functions.

The main categories of pancreatic enzymes include proteases, amylase, and lipase. Proteases, such as trypsin and chymotrypsin, are responsible for digesting proteins into amino acids. Amylase breaks down carbohydrates, like starches, into simpler sugars. Lipase digests fats into fatty acids and glycerol. These enzymes work in conjunction with bile produced by the liver to facilitate efficient nutrient absorption.

Disruptions in the production or function of pancreatic enzymes can lead to various digestive issues. For example, insufficient lipase production can cause malabsorption of fats, leading to symptoms like steatorrhea (fatty stools) and nutrient deficiencies. Conditions like pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and certain types of cancer can impair the pancreas's ability to produce adequate amounts of these vital enzymes. In such cases, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) may be prescribed to supplement the body's own enzyme production, aiding in digestion and improving nutrient absorption. The proper functioning of kõhunäärmeensüümid is fundamental to overall digestive health and the body's ability to obtain necessary nutrients from food.